That was the Maltese Falcon

Rating: 9/10 (27 March 2006)

Be advised, this movie is plot driven, NOT character driven. If you're looking for rapport, look elsewhere. If you want a twisty, original heist flick, then tune in.
Writing, directing, acting, pacing, visuals, plot... This movie had nothing below A-grade. This was a seamless knitting together of thought and love and hate. This movie's emotional triggers are perfectly wired.
Imagine all the hype that's been written about Maltese Falcon. Now imagine a movie that lives up to that.
Denzel Washington occupies but does not over-dominate the screen. Christopher Plummer's and Clive Owen's characters both manage to exude good, evil, guilt and respect. A person can spend decades trying to climb out, only to be drawn back into the fold. This isn't good vs. evil. This is good vs. temptation.
This was the best movie I've seen in years. I don't think I'll re-watch it for a few more. A favorite movie is like a good book, but this is a mystery. I need to forget before I'm reminded.