Review of Spartan (2004) by Jellyfish O — 17 Jul 2004

DIAGNOSIS: Solid!

Yes, I diagnosed both Spidey 2 and Spartan as Solid, and I'm giving Spartan an 8 and Spidey a 7. Here's why. Spartan was more solid. Spartan played with more themes, particularly more potentially destructive themes with regard to the story's plot. In the end though, it juggled these story elements beautifully. Spidey did this as well, but it dealt with fewer and simpler themes, but I stress again, it did so effectively.

Spartan's a zero bullshit experience. It's very smart and very quick. It's nearly zilch on the emotional factor, but heavy on plot movement and tension. Without giving too much away, the most emotional point in the film exists in the scenes that involve Kilmer and actress Kristen Bell, who plays the kidnap victim in the film. These scenes have a strange and distinct poignancy about them, that you'll be hard-pressed to find in another film.

Most of the film though, is concerned about racing from place to place, uncovering hidden facts, and all the other stuff you'd expect in a good thriller. That's what this movie is, a really good thriller. I can't think of another thriller that I've seen recently that pays off so well just on the level of suspense, movement, and snappy dialogue.

So, if you want a smart, satisfying thriller-for-thriller's-sake, look no further than Spartan.