an interesting look at the pitfalls of the drug industry

Rating: 8/10 (20 May 2001)

"Blow" is a movie which definitely serves as a moral lesson to those who have ever thought about becoming involved within the narcotics game. This movie is well acted, well directed and does a fantastic job of allowing viewers to see firsthand the destruction, uncertainty, and danger of becoming entrenched in the fast money of this multi-billion dollar industry.
Kudos to Johnny Depp in a role that gives him an opportunity once again to flex his acting chops. After a string of unforgettable roles, he delivers in this one. Ray Liotta as always was phenomenal, and newcomer Penelope Cruz is decent as Depp's wife.
Overall, this movie was great on many aspects because it isn't a sad, soppy, preachy melodrama. This movie contains real, layered characters with some depth that allows you to sympathize and at the same time pity the characters and the circumstances in which they find themselves. This film isn't neccessarily Oscar-material, but it's a very good cinematic effort. My rating is 7.7 out of 10.