Brilliant, engaging and entertaining.

Rating: 9/10 (25 May 2010)

The Usual Suspects is a mix of mystery, action and film-making at it's finest. It truly is genius.
The plot of 'The Usual Suspects' essentially consists of two stories. It starts in the middle, because the basis of the film (the major event) happens within the first 10 minutes. The first story is the build up to this action. The second story is what happens afterwards. The two stories start at different ends and work towards the middle. The result is a fantastically interesting and articulate plot which results in the all characters (including the audience) trying to piece together the pieces of the puzzle.
The Non-liner structure I thought worked, but only to a certain degree. I have to say that it was not the best non-linear film I have seen. I still prefer Memento in terms of arrangement. However, as I have said, the process of working towards the middle really worked in a murder mystery film. I can't think of too many other films like it. With the exception of Reservoir Dogs and although I am sure that the film is not a copy, it is very similar to Reservoir Dogs in it's layout and style. The major difference being that you see the action that took place in the usual suspects and you don't in Reservoir Dogs.
Another thing to mention is that mystery films do not always work best with non-linear structures. I believe the reason that memento worked was because it turned out that thee was no mystery in a twist ending, it was merely personal vendetta. However in this film, it does become confusing at times and can lose some audience members. I much prefer mystery presented in a linear pattern. For example, I shall use Sherlock Holmes (my dear Watson). In the Holmes novels, the mystery is presented in pattern where the reader begins to solve the case at the same time as Sherlock Holmes. Making it more interesting and engaging. I just felt that the non-linear structure didn't have this attraction.
Another things to mention is that all the acting is universally brilliant. I don't say that lightly either, but I totally bought the reality of the characters, without meaning to add favouritism, Kevin Spacey was just fantastic in his role. For not being a method actor I was amazed on the realism he managed to bring to the character in terms of his body movement and vocal style.
Finally, what can be said about the end? Well, as far as I am concerned, it was one of the best twists I have seen in modern cinema. I can guarantee that 90% of the people who watch this film will not guess the true ending. It is such a great twist that is so cleverly paced out that it puts Reservoir Dogs to shame.
The film is guaranteed to please, if you're a fan of Tarantino movies, or for that matter, mystery films, then watching this film should be mandatory. Not questions asked.
Brilliant.
9/10.