It's an adult film, mainly because there's a lot going on, and it's hard to keep track of the characters and their motivations. And, Traffic is 2 hours and 27 minutes long. Don't go if you can't sit still for anything more intense than an Adam Sandler flick. Those who do pay attention are rewarded with an intricately crafted story thanks to writer Stephen Gaghan and editing Stephen Mirrione. Catherine Zeta Jones and Erika Christensen are strong as women whose lives are driven by drugs in very different ways.
Traffic is rated R for pervasive drug content, strong language, violence and some sexuality.
I remember when a major politician blasted the movie Trainspotting, saying it glorified drug use. I think, despite the ultimate message, that hard drugs looked a lot more attractive in Traffic. I didn't like that, especially since that story line preyed on the fears of every parent. Traffic earns three and a half stars on my scale, 0-5. It's a crowded stretch of road filled with high octane tales and full throttle cameos.