One of my new all time favorite movies of 2004 is Collateral. Yes, the sorta bomb starring Tom Cruise and Jamie Foxx. It is actually fantastic. It's dark. It's emotional. It's smart and edgy. It's a collision of lives that makes you stop and think about life. "Some people happen to people on person in order to tell them something about their lives." The nightclub scene at a WeHo club is fantastic. It is the little nothing decisions that can change our lives.
Collateral sees Mann re-establishing himself as possibly one of the most stylish yet underrated directors of our generation. This film has Michael Mann written all over it. For example the cinematography of LA at night is tremendous and is Michael Mann all over. This man (sorry) really knows how to tell a simple story in the most dramatic and impressive way. His films are just so damn intriguing you find yourself being drawn into the characters and being absorbed into his world - and this movie is no exception.
As the film progresses both characters have mixed and conflicting feelings for one another. These feelings fluctuate and intensify throughout the movie when both characters realise they need to take control of the situation and more importantly each other. From here we have a movie that is not only sharp and intelligent but also well crafted and superbly directed. Collateral has added a new dimension to the “hit-man” genre by exploring and exploiting the interaction between Max and Vincent instead of just concentrating on an assassin going around bumping off people because he is paid to do it.
For the most part this picture takes place in and around Max’s (Jamie Foxx) taxi where he picks up Vincent (Cruise) as his next fare. In true Michael Mann fashion, a relationship is formed between Vincent and Max. Vincent thinking he is the one possessing the power and Max being the vulnerable and helpless one. However nothing is quite what it seems in a Michael Mann movie because the reality is the reverse.
Cruise is brilliant and very credible not only as a bad guy but as an assassin. His character shows intellect, guile and refinement as well as grit, aggressiveness and determination. Credit is also due to Foxx whose character comes across as a little pathetic, a dreamer but also someone who lies to his sick mother. Nevertheless in the face of adversity he comes into his own and gains strength, confidence and becomes more assertive.
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Also, Shaun of the Dead is pretty entertaining. Definitely some good laughs. It should also be watched right after 28 Days Later since some of the humor and scenes seem to be right out of the movie.
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