(andPOP) -
A simple way to put it, ?Collateral? was pretty damn cool. Director Michael Mann?s vision and creative camera angles set the tone for an intimate portrayal of man vs. mayhem. The various close-ups throughout the film presented an in depth analysis of each character and the emotional process that they individually endured. With cinematography styles similar to that of the acclaimed hit ?Taxi Driver?, the film delivered scenes with intensity and passion. The relationship between Cruise (Vincent) and Foxx (Max) captivated the audience with stellar performances from both actors.
Cruise creates a character that could not be replicated by any other while Foxx?s acting skills continue to impress with every new role/film he encounters. Mann was excellent in developing a relationship between working-class average Joe and suave, sharp intellect. The most enjoyable part of the film was watching the process of the two personas meeting on the same plane and acting as a unit. Forcing a character to suppress his personality and take on the opposing is always entertaining and intriguing.
Going into the film I attempted to ignore the hype surrounding it but it inevitably had an effect on my preempted opinion. However, the ?hype? could not have been more accurate this time for once I left the theater I wanted more. Rare action films give the viewer that emotional drive and power that ?Collateral? gave to the audience.
The film?s thought-provoking dialogue made for a compelling outlook on life regarding the insignificance of our daily actions. The realism of the film makes one wonder whether it is depicting what could be, or what is already happening in the world today.
Bottom-Line: I will sum this one up with a short sentence: Go see this film, you will not leave disappointed.
A-
