Raw and surreal

Rating: 8/10 (20 May 2002)

Denzel Washington as a shady police officer? I didn't think he could pull it off, but he did so with grace and believability. Ethan Hawke was perfect as his goofy wannabe NARC, which brought about an interesting dynamic between the two characters. For once, Denzel Washington got out of soul brotha' routine and played a character with some inner conflict and depth. I must also say, Antoine Fuqua had his best directing effort thus far, combining all the best elements from Bait and The Replacement Killers to make this sound and riveting street thriller.