A portrait of L.A. in black and white

Rating: 8/10 (8 April 2006)

Similar to Robert Altman's Short Cuts, this film features a set of interweaving stories in L.A. against a backdrop of racial tension. Some of the stories are more interesting than others. For example, the plot line concerning the locksmith and the Persian shop owner is compelling whereas the one about the black cop and his mother is not well developed. Some of the situations seem forced just to make a point. The transformation of the Bullock character from a whiny, racist bitch to Mother Teresa following a tumble down the stairs is unconvincing. The shooting of the black kid by the good white cop also rings false. However, excellent ensemble acting by all makes this worth watching.