Fantastic! Denzel & Spike @ Their Best

Rating: 8/10 (21 March 2006)

INSIDE MAN is a complete joy. It has tension, a good script and fine acting. I was afraid I was in for another one of Denzel's macho cop outings (the African-American equal to the ever boring Harrison Ford), but was happily surprised to find him in top form, bursting with energy and life. On top of his excellent performance this is also Spike Lee at his best since CLOCKERS providing us with a lively and crackling heist flick (or is it?). This is an all around fine film giving Lee the perfect platform for weaving in some relevant and finely pointed political and racial commentary. It's also a great New York City film. Lee must be a big fan of THE TAKING OF PELHAM, ONE, TWO, THREE. It has the same vibe and what a great vibe to have. My only complaint is Jodie Foster's stilted and somewhat over the top performance...there is nothing natural about her in this role. Everyone else, including the large cast of bit actors are fantastic. I obviously highly recommend INSIDE MAN, an upbeat, exciting and always surprising night at the movies.