Review of 15 Minutes (2001) by Mike S — 23 Feb 2010

15 MINUTES is a solid crime thriller, but one that, at times, gets bogged down in its own message. The film seeks to be a commentary the out of control nature of the media today, and while at times it does succeed in that regard, as the story begins to head towards its conclusion, the message feels a bit heavy handed.

Director John Herzfeld does a competent job of directing on this film, creating several tense scenes that work very well on screen. Also serving as screenwriter, Herzfeld should be credited for a very brave plot point a little less than three quarters the way through the film, which really serves to turn the film on its head. However, also after that point, it really does feel as thought he film has lost something.

The cast of 15 MINUTES is solid, if not as spectacular as the name pedigree would lead one to expect. De Niro is solid here, although it's certainly not amongst his best work. The same can be said for Edward Burns. Kelsey Grammar, however, is great in his role as a sleazy TV show host.

15 MINUTES is a worthwhile viewing because when it's good, it's very good. It's only when the film's message about tabloid journalism gets heavy handed that the film becomes a bit of a bore, but otherwise it's a worthwhile venture.