Review of Man on Fire (1987) by Rachael H — 11 Feb 2011

I think why Flixster uses like this and why the film has a cult following, is definitely because of the editing style. It has a unique, fast cutting that creates a sort of epileptic affect. It takes a while to get use to but then it's what makes the film; representing the mental struggle of Denzel's character to move on form his past.

I think his past should have been explored more. It seemed to be hinted at a lot, but of course the focus was his relationship with Dakota Fanning, which was a great dynamic. it's what makes the film really. The first hour is the best. It does lose itself in the middle but then the ending is very well executed.

Denzel is badass, and Tony Scott has now directed Unstoppable (2010) which had the same kind of fast-paced action, clearly a different directing style than his brother Ridley.