Collateral (2004)
When a psychopathic hitman is just like any other person.
Presentation:
This is one of Michael Mann’s better films and although has less prestige than Heat I think it is the better film. Tom Cruise plays such a fine nuanced villain with a fleshed out philosophy rather than mindless bad guy. He’s captivating on screen and you’d wish he’d play more villains. Just like Mann’s other crime films, this film looks similar as if it takes place in the same universe as Heat. We have grungy realistic night time urban sprawl with an interesting use of high shutter angle and handheld for an almost dreamier look though never really resembling Wong Kar Wai.
Conclusion:
This is a good action film with a lot of interesting caveats and turns. Performances aside, I think it even has some elements that make it more than simply a mindless action film, though that is what this movie is in essence. Tom Cruise’s performance stands out as a very really psychopath, with Jamie Foxx being no slouch either. It’s an action film with a sensational premise, so of course there are creative flexibilities and unrealistic decisions and events for an action film. But the relationship and conflict feel real, making this film very re-watchable even in 2024, delivering everything you want in this nighttime escapade.
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Recommendations
A vapid love letter to Hollywood filmmaking.