Review of Enemy of the State (1998) by Scott C — 03 Sep 2012
Even though this movie has TONS of great action, there is no question that Tony Scott nailed the thriller aspect in this movie. It wasn't just mindless chases and shoot outs like every other 90s Jerry Bruckheimer movie.
Enemy of the State is a perfect blend of amazing action and tense conspiracy thriller. Given the freedom basically to blow up as much stuff as possible, Tony Scott brings his quick-cut camera tricks to produce the best action sequences he made - the opening foot chase over rooftops and the train yard car chase that has one of the coolest explosions I've seen in a movie.
No question, he was on his game here. But his ability at bringing so much tension whenever there isn't violence is a skill most directors lack. He takes his signature quick cuts and applies them to the paranoia this movie requires and it works beautifully.
Again, Gene Hackman excels in the older mentor character that Tony Scott always includes, and even though too much comic relief almost brings the whole movie down... Even Tony Scott screws up, he can still make a great thriller.
This review of Enemy of the State (1998) was written by Scott C on 03 Sep 2012.
Enemy of the State has generally received positive reviews.
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