Product: The Insider [VHS] (1999)
Rating: 4.0
Almost a 5-star review
The Insider is a very good movie. That being said, I must say I thought the film was a bit too long. I understand with a suspense-drama of this sort, there must be at least 2 hours of film to make it's point well understood. I wasn't as much bored, as I was wanting the film to end, because of the moments of lag here and there. But again, I was not bored, just curious of when the credits would roll, and desiring this movie to indeed end.The acting in this film is superb. Pacino, as always, gives a riveting performance, and Russel Crowe is excellent. The supporting actors do a remarkable job as well, and that helps this, at times, slow moving picture.I did like the idea, of a movie that honestly (with poetic license of course) portrays the corporate tobacco monsters in todays world, and the loop-holes and snags they can twist and turn to get the upperhand and the advantage on the crisis they may face.Based on a true story, this film displays one mans incredible courage to risk everything important to him (including his family's and his own life), to do what is right ! Everyone of us, at least every DECENT one of us wishes we can be like that at some point or another during our lives. Be the REAL hero. Standing up for what is right, no matter what the cost. Indeed, it was nice to see the hero portrayed by Crowe, a very talented actor...A four star movie from me because of the gripping drama and superb acting, but I just couldn't give it 5 stars, as I really did find myself wanting the film to end. 2 hours and 30 + minutes was just a bit too long for this sort of movie in my opinion. But I would recommend this film to anyone with a passion for great acting and a very good and REALISTIC drama.