The city of 'Lost' Angeles at its worst- and best.

Rating: 10/10 (21 July 2005)

I saw this film over two months ago and it's still going through my mind. The main character is the Los Angeles I live in- most of us isolated in our cars as we travel though our daily lives on congested freeways and streets, inching slowly towards our destinations. Only when forced by the usual violent circumstances do we rub up against our varied ethnic communities only to realize how different we all are- and yet, as this film reveals, how similar our humanity is.
Crash is a great ensemble film, drawing together actors that give both subtle and dramatic life to their characters. Sandra Bullock for once reveals a dramatic edge to her acting ability, and Don Cheadle as always, shows his talent a hundred percent. The rest of the cast stands out in their ability to give this film not only the different contrasts between the characters, but also the thin gray lines that blur stereotypes.
Paul Haggis shows us how fear keeps us isolated, and yet how once in a while when it is called for our humanity brings us together to show how much we all share in common.
This film is helped out by outstanding camera work and a soundtrack that adds greatly to the emotions revealed in it. Although I have mixed feelings about recommending any movie (everybody has their own different opinions when it comes to watching a film) this is one film I feel moved to talking about to friends. When award time comes around I feel this one should be on the list for consideration.