Surprisingly good

Rating: 8/10 (1 January 2005)

I hadn't heard anything about this movie ahead of time, and honestly wasn't expecting much - possibly an excess of violence - so was quite pleased to find it was exceptionally well acted, had a compelling story, good character development, and interesting cinematography.
I'm not a big Cruise fan, but was very impressed with his acting in this movie. Generally I've found his work to be shallow, or maybe it's the parts he is given to play. This was a fascinating character, and he did a fabulous job. I admit I kept hoping for some kind of change, some evolution of the character, but honestly it couldn't have happened as the story was unfolded. It had to end the way it did.
Foxx was excellent. Just great. I've only seen him in one or two other things, comedy of course, and had no idea he could do such a tremendous job in a dramatic role. Now I'm dying to see him in Ray.
I'd highly recommend this film.