A movie which sets out to explore the interconnectedness of human relationships.

Rating: 7/10 (30 September 2005)

This is a compelling movie where the cast of characters maneuver like dodgem cars as the story lines bring them into direct impact with one another. Set in Los Angeles, the multi-ethnicity of the characters and the associated stereotypes challenge viewers to grapple with provocative comments about how power is exercised and negotiated in a social environment where there is no black and white, only shades of gray. Heroes turn into villains and vice versa as viewers are challenged to take sides, then eat humble pie. Don Cheadle and Matt Dillion deliver thoughtful performances, while Sandra Bullock appears a little out of her comfort zone playing a character who is hostile towards a world that leaves her afraid to walk down the street at night. Perhaps the movie can be criticised for biting off more than it can chew. There is overt dialogue which pontificates about certain aspects of ethnicity and social justice. This leaves the audience with a feeling of 'so what'. Despite this, the movie is well worth a look.