Required viewing for all Americans

Rating: 10/10 (28 May 2005)

A convincing ensemble cast creates an unforgettable depiction of the intense heat that burns under the melting pot of our country. Intertwining stories describe how anger turns into rage, fear turns into hate, and frustration fans the flames that burn indelibly into our lives. A police detective (Don Cheadle) and his partner (Jennifer Esposito) come across a dead body after getting involved in an auto accident; the Los Angeles District Attorney (Brendan Fraser) and his wife (Sandra Bullock) have their car hijacked by a couple of street thugs (Larenz Tate and Chris "Ludicris" Bridges); two cops (Matt Dillon and Ryan Phillippe in excellent performances) stop and intimidate a married couple (Terrence Dashon Howard and Thandie Newton) on their way home; and a locksmith (Michael Pena) has problems satisfying a shop owner (Shaun Toub). This is one of the best pictures of the year, full of exciting twists and surprise climaxes, and one that should be required viewing for every American.