What a disappointment...

Rating: Null/10 (8 June 2000)

I have to say, I was truly giddy about this film - couldn't *wait* for it to be released...unfortunately, if it wasn't for some moderate inventiveness on John Woo's part and a stellar soundtrack, I would have walked out of the film less than halfway through.
The story was boring, cliche, and almost offensive...not only did I take issue with the plot as an avid movie-goer who doesn't particularly enjoy being patronized, I was truly aghast at the turn which Thandie Newton's character took. This is an actress I thoroughly enjoy and one who has played some of the strongest characters I've seen in film, but this character became such a stereotypical damsel in distress that I was disgusted, and I was utterly confused as to why Newton would even take such a role...
Woo showed some of his typical flair for action sequences, but there were moments in which I was totally baffled as to why he would make certain choices for scenes creating a completely unrealistic aire...not to say that he is a director rooting his style in realism, but usually his sequences are so enthralling I don't stop and think 'yeah right...'
The high point of the film occurred within the first 15 minutes as Cruise scales that rock face...it was shot well, and some nice muscles never hurt any scene. ;-) The first thing I noticed in this scene, however, besides Tom's well-toned biceps, was the music...there were interesting choices that I thought fit well rhythmically and set a fun tone. More than setting the tone for the scene, my notes on the music of this scene set the tone for the rest of my viewing - the music was the single saving grace for this film...it was inventive, compelling, and eclectic...it was truly what made me stay in my seat...
See it if you must, but this is definitely one to see at the cheap theatre......