Review of Inside Man (2006) by Arianne C — 07 Feb 2011

Denzel Washington stars in this bank-job/hostage siege thriller from Spike Lee. Lee's typical insights are largely absent in favour of a what.

At least appears to be a more traditional, straight-forward story.

Clive Owen plays the leader of the bank raiders with a cold, calculating steel in opposition to Washington's wise-cracking almost playful detective cum hostage negotiator. There are notable turns from Jodie Foster & Christopher Plummer as well as the ever watchable Willem Dafoe. Inside Man has a number of clever twists and turns and still manages to make some points about racism, violent videogaming children and the perceptions of guilt, innocence and corruption. The film is helped by being both stylishly shot and well paced. The acting is first-rate and the brassy soundtrack adds a touch of extra class to an already polished production. There are some negatives - Jodie Foster's character has significant power and influence - but remains a mystery, while Plummer's secretive shame seems buried in an oddly convienient place. Despite these few grumbles, Inside Man is a worthy watch - and given the talent involved doesn't disappoint. Recommended.