A template for others to follow

Rating: 10/10 (4 December 1999)

The Insider is an absolutely wonderful movie. What made it especially great is that it didn't rely solely on action and explosions to boost its interest level, as most movies out there do, but instead it chose to lean on tension to keep the audience riveted. Not only did I find the movie extremely interesting, I found myself learning a thing or two about television production and tobacco companies. I felt extreme sympathy for Jeffrey Wigand as he struggled to reveal the truth about tobacco to the American public. Russell Crowe may have misstepped in Mystery, Alaska, but he is back to the height of his acting in The Insider, a powerful performance rivaling the one he gave in L.A. Confidential. Al Pacino was fabulous as well. I know that this film was early in release, but I hope that when Oscar nominations come out that this film is not forgotten. This movie is one that is completely rewarding, and its use of tension as the source of interest for the audience should be use in more movies that are being made.