Dramatically Heartwarming.

Rating: 9/10 (9 May 2008)

Director Tony Scott has managed to accomplish an excellent film by casting Denzel Washington as the lead actor in this film and the mind-numbingly gorgeous Paula Patton as the prominent female character intertwined in a mysterious terrorist plot set loose by a right-wing extremist (James Caviezel). Val Kilmer's performance is above par as well and the elements of this movie go well with its stellar cast.
Tony Scott is best remembered for his films like Domino and Man On Fire (which also starred Denzel Washington). Having achieved success in those films, he pulls us into the plot of this film with considerable twists and unexpected occurrences.
The premise of this film is simple - a ferry laden with civilians and Navy personnel explodes just after casting off from the docks of New Orleans. Denzel Washington plays ATF agent Doug Carlin, a no-nonsense, determined enforcer who is stunned to learn that the explosion was a result of a bomb meticulously planned and planted.
Val Kilmer is an FBI agent who enlists the help of a more experienced Doug Carlin to review and investigate the bombing and slowly reveals to Carlin that they possess the technology to virtually go back in time and conduct surveillance prior to the bombing. Caviezel plays the right-wing extremist and is clearly suited for the cold-blooded, heartless role.
Eventually, Carlin discovers that he can save the life of Claire Kuchever (Paula Patton) who is simply at the wrong place at the wrong time. It may get confusing at times but if you've watched 'back in time' movies like Back To The Future and such, you should be able to grasp the logic and practicality of this film.
Without giving it away, the film manages to remain interestingly compelling and I consider it a rare heartwarming movie which is well-rounded in all aspects without being over- dramatic.
An obvious masterpiece on Tony Scott's part and the talented cast bolster this movie's appeal. A must-see if you're the type who enjoys psychological thrillers like Memento etc. A definite two thumbs up!