A vivid and compelling film

Rating: 10/10 (25 December 1999)

"The Insider" could have been a troublesome film, since most people know how it turns out and the controversy captured in the film is often material taken on my TV movies. However, Michael Mann directs a film that captured me from beginning to end and never once did I feel restless throughout the entire three hours.
We all know the story and probably most know how it ends. This film is about standing up in the midst of strong opposition and doing what one feels is the right thing to do. This theme is often portrayed in cheesy sitcoms and dopey films, but this film shows how much of a struggle it was for Wigand and how he almost gave up doing anything at all, making him all the more human and inspiring. Michael Mann's film shows Wigand as a human being, rather than an idealized hero.
Russell Crowe gives the performance of his career, which is saying a lot since he has continually impressed me with outstanding performances. His work, along with the rest of the actors besides Basinger, on "L.A. Confidential was ridiculously shut out of most award nominations. Although Basinger did a great job, Crowe was just as deserving of recognition. I believe he will give Kevin Spacey a huge run for his money when Oscar night comes around. Spacey, Crowe, and Carrey will all battle it out for what may be one of the most intense Best Actor competitions in recent memory.
Al Pacino gives his usual powerful performance and, since this is expected, his fabulous work will probably gain little fanfare in terms of nominations.
One complaint about the film: it the last 20 or so minutes of the movie, Wigand is completely forgotten and Pacino's character becomes the central focus. This seemed to shift the movie in an entirely different direction and it seemed to run of course.
Overall, an excellent film that will compete heavily with "American Beauty" as the best movie of the year.