Probably the best of 1999

Rating: 10/10 (11 February 2000)

I dallied for so long before seeing THE INSIDER, and, especially after seeing it, I have no real idea why. Was I afraid of a socio-screed against cigarette companies? Al Pacino acting up several storms?
My advice -- having now seen it twice -- is to view this one while it's still in the theater. This is the sort of intelligent, gripping movie Hollywood produces when it's at its best. Like QUIZ SHOW, DONNIE BRASCO, CITY HALL, and SEARCHING FOR BOBBY FISCHER, THE INSIDER has a tight, tight script, moves at a great pace, offers an insightful story about humans, and has terrific performances and cinematography. Michael Mann pushes the quasi-documentary camerawork perhaps just a bit too much for some tastes; I thought it was terrific.
A very deep nod of approval to Russell Crowe. This is the sort of subtle acting that I don't think most folks realize is so special. He details his performance so beautifully, even pushing up his glasses perfectly in character. I could see both the reserved southern gent in him as well as the man who has a problem managing his anger. The only time it doesn't completely work -- and I would suggest it was a writing and directing problem -- is in a scene in which he is badgered to get on the telephone. His sudden explosion is more a movie mannerism than a glimpse of reality; little matter, though, as he quickly makes the scene work. A terrific performance from Christopher Plummer, too. (And Al does fine, keeping the ham largely off the plate.)
The only movie that touches this one in 1999 is THE TALENTED MR. RIPLEY (or, much more arguably, TOY STORY 2 and THE STRAIGHT STORY). THE INSIDER is more than worth checking out; it's something of a treasure.