Cruise is not the problem

Rating: Null/10 (20 August 2004)

I had high hopes for COLLATERAL. Being directed by one of my favorite filmmakers and featuring Tombo "The Gun Guy" Cruise, I expected this picture to be the gem of the summer. But, let me say: I was wrong. Big time. The script is weak, flustered by strangely bland moments and hampered by a cat and mouse affliction that never lived up to its afore mentioned promise. Cruise provides the depth for Vincent, a machine-like villain. Nonetheless, Max (played by Jamie Foxx) dances both sides of the character line; at times, hating his captor, at other times, in confiding him. I found the relationship to be terribly unrealistic. As for the rest of the cast, their story lines are wasted and given little resolution. As a result, I cannot recommend COLLATERAL. Due to its lack of structure, heart, and narrative, it implodes into the LA nightlife it so highly wants to emulate.