Review of The Bone Collector (1999) by Jason J — 23 Jan 2011

This intelligent crime story is an excellent addition to the genre. It combines some time honoured plot elements with some nuances and twists to provide an effective and intriguing story that has viewers racking their brains along with the characters to figure out who's committed the murders.

The quadriplegic element was actually an effective novelty in a genre that is often criticised for its lack of originality. The story's calculating serial killer with a very specific motive was a welcome change from the often used psychopath on the rampage.

The acting by Denzel Washington was first rate. He is particularly effective in thoughtful, intelligent roles where his character has to think his way through the movie while dealing with emotional baggage.

Angelina Jolie was also fantastic as the cop who teams up with Washinton's character to catch the killer. Director Phillip Noyce combines mystery, suspense, and graphic violence and delivers the total package with great impact.

As crime dramas go, this is excellent. The graphic violence is not for everyone, but if you enjoy a good taut murder mystery, you can't go wrong with this movie.