Review of The Way of the Gun (2000) by Kwende M — 03 Mar 2008
Christopher McQuarrie follows up The Usual Suspects with this frankly superb movie. From the hilarious opening to the incredibly downbeat ending, it thrills and excites throughout.
Different from McQuarrie's previous film, who's success relied on the excellent twist at the end, this films joy comes from the shifts in the plot, revealing what you need to know when you need to know it. In many respects the quality of the writing is far better than TUS. He is able to turn a simple crime caper into a work a cinematic art.
Impeccable casting across the board. IMHO it's the best ensemble cast seen for many years. Ryan Phillippe is a revelation. His scratty bum-fluff beard hiding his teen appealing good looks, he proves here just how good an actor he is. He holds his own against Benicio del Toro's more quirky partner in crime.
Taye Diggs once more shows he is one on the most underrated actors in Hollywood. Comfortable to play, in essence, the bad guy here. His performances over the years have shown a great depth and range.
It's always good to see Jimmy Caan on screen. This is, probably, his finest role since Michael Mann's Thief.
Watch it... you won't regret it.
This review of The Way of the Gun (2000) was written by Kwende M on 03 Mar 2008.
The Way of the Gun has generally received mixed reviews.
Was this review helpful?
