Inner City Reality at it's Best

Rating: Null/10 (20 March 2002)

Of the 43 or so movies that Denzel Washington has starred in, "Training Day" has got to be classified as one of the most memorable character's he has ever attempted. Antoine Fuqua's direction and David Ayer's writing tell the true story of police corruption in the mean streets of Los Angeles. Ethan Hawke's portrayal of Rookie Cop Jake Hoyt was convincing next to the larger than life stature of Denzel Washington. The movie is gripping from opening to close with sharp and realistic dialogue between Washington's character "Alonzo Harris" and Rookie Hoyt. The film is one that should be viewed twice. The second viewing helps to show the "mind games" that Alonzo plays with Hoyt throughout the movie, but also show what happens when manipulation fails. Ethan Hawke's supporting actor Oscar nod is rightfully deserved.

Nomatter how you may feel about Denzel when the movie ends, it's a performance worthy of the Best Actor Oscar. Living in Southern, California and growing up in the Inner City, this movie delivers the harsh realities of police corruption by not all, but many L.A.P.D. Detectives. Pay close attention to the dialogue. It rings true. This movie is real.

Snoop Dog (Blue)and Macy Gray (Sandman's wife)have small but worthy parts. Antoine Fuqua has come into his own as a Director with this movie. It only gets better from here. Training Day is a must see movie.