Inside Man

Background:
I have a list (Google doc) that has flicks that I either want to see or flicks that I want my wife to see. I'm usually adding new entries and rarely crossing them off because I forget to consult my list when it comes time to rent a flick. One of my favorite places to rent flicks is my mom's house so when I say 'rent', I really mean 'borrow'. Anyway... the other day I 'rented' the Inside Man and it wasn't until we had finished watching it that I realized it was on my list. I guess my initial impression of the trailer was accurate because this film definitely didn't disappoint.

I could preface this review by saying that I like Denzel Washington. Off-hand, I can't think of a flick he's been in that I didn't like. I also like Jodie Foster; although her role in this flick was a little underdeveloped and not as prominent as I had expected. I can't say I've seen many flicks with Clive Owen, unless he's played smaller roles in flicks I'm forgetting. Lastly, it's certainly worth noting that the flick was directed by Spike Lee. However, it didn't feel like a 'Spike Lee joint' as is often the case. Christopher Plummer has a limited, yet integral-to-the-story role that he plays quite well. Willem Dafoe also has a bit role, but nothing worth mentioning.

The flick is essentially about a bank robbery... or is it? Denzel plays a hostage negotiator/detective and Owen plays the criminal mastermind... or does he? It's one of those flicks that keeps you guessing, or rather isn't as simple as it seems. It's also one of those flicks that doesn't follow a linear timeframe, but rather jumps back and forth (don't worry though, it's not too confusing to the point where you can't follow). Denzel's character isn't your clean-cut, good guy cop, and Owen certainly isn't your simple, crazy bad guy. The interplay between the two (while same sceen interacion is limited) is exciting.

The entire flick basically takes place at the bank or outside of the bank it what appears to be NYC (Spike Lee connection; don't worry there are no Knick references). It covers the timeframe of about a week, primarily focusing on 2 days.

Without revealing too much, I can say that the flick is definitely worth seeing and one that I'd like to watch again soon. This certainly qualifies as a SURPRISE because I had no expectations going in and it was a good flick. It had been on my list for quite a while and I'd forgotten any impressions that I initially had. I'm glad that I can cross one off my list, but I'd suggest you readers add it to yours.

Rating: 3 Stars

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