make no mistake, this movie is nothing without Denzel Washington

Rating: 9/10 (13 February 2000)

Never before have I seen a movie in which the lead actor is so definitely the central reason that the movie is good. Denzel Washington does a perfect job throughout the film. I think Roger Ebert said something like "he explodes onto the screen." I'd agree with that.
But, it's a shame that Washington's Rubin Carter is the only round character in the film. Everyone else, particularly the Canadians, are ridiculously one-dimensional. I also think the use of Bob Dylan's song about Carter's case is a mistake. While important to the story, the music itself comes off as upbeat and is jarring in the context of the film (but, then again, it might just be that I can't stand Bob Dylan).
Still, Washington is so good that the film's failings become almost excusable. If ever there was a year that I would want to see two actors get the Oscar, this is it (I know it won't happen, but I'd like to see Washington and Spacey share the award). 9/10