Review of 25th Hour (2002) by Rameshwar N — 20 Aug 2011

This is the first time I have watched this entirely and was quite impressed 'mostly'. The premise evokes sympathy for the character even without seeing a single frame since the character's mind will be in a dreadful state awaiting what is to come. So it is all about how it is dealt.

Edward Norton always comes across as a very decent actor but I have not come across his realized potential until this and American History X. The inevitable sentimental and pity moments are fresh because of a tremendous performance by Norton. The rest of the cast too gives their best to make this drama affecting and relatable. It has a stylish look as does most of Spike Lee's works along with Anna Paquin and Rosario Dawson looking their best ever.

I felt the monologues were out of place and over the top too. The climax dream sequence is too stretched. But despite a couple of glitches, it is a great entertainer for it's premise without being too dark and gloomy which it could have easily been.