What a team!

Rating: 8/10 (19 January 2003)

Steven Spielberg has brought Tom Hanks and Leonardo DiCaprio together in what could have been a small film, but becomes great entertainment in the hands of these masters! One of my favorite things about this movie is something I didn't even notice until towards the end-- Spielberg adds his unique touches ('Spielbergian') without overwhelming the film. His restraint and professionalism truly shine here. Hanks is excellent as always, and DiCaprio continues to show his growth as a fine actor. It's only a matter of time before he wins his Oscar in the right vehicle (this isn't it). I saw 'Gangs of New York' and 'Catch Me If You Can' within a week of each other. I would easily pay to see this film again, but not the other (even though 'Gangs' is quite good. And by the way, this film is much more re-watchable than Spielberg's other film this year, 'Minority Report'). This movie has a great 60's sheen to it. I hope it gets an Oscar nomination for Best Costume! The audience I was with enjoyed this bad-boy-on-the-run caper, rooting for him vociferously. And what makes it so special is that it's based on a true story. This film makes me want to read more about Abagnale. I recently saw an interview with him, and he stated that the movie correctly captured the essence of what his life was like then; that's as high a compliment as is needed. I had a feeling that the real Abagnale had a cameo somewhere, and I was right. In reading the credits he shows up as a French police officer! For the films that were released in 2002, there are only two that I can universally recommend to ANYONE. 'My Big Fat Greek Wedding', and this movie. 'Greek Wedding' would get a slightly more vigorous nod because of a bad swear word said by Hanks in this that might offend some; but it was the FUNNIEST line of the movie! This may win no Oscars, but it's GREAT entertainment! ***1/2