TC Candler's Review A-

Overtly manipulative coincidence frustrates an otherwise brilliant screenplay.

It's a shame that people don't line up around the block for films like this... films with a talented ensemble cast that deal with real issues, real people and real conflict. There's nothing fake about films like these... nothing escapist... it is just a slice of life story that hits home in palpable ways.

I suppose the easy way to classify "Crash" is by calling it a more commercial version of "Magnolia", "Grand Canyon" or "Short Cuts".

It is far shorter than any of those obvious comparisons and it is less "artsy". In other words, "Crash" is less concerned with impressive filmmaking and more concerned with efficient storytelling.

The downside to imitation is that the film feels slightly "done already"... it needs an extra hook to keep us riveted. "Crash" uses racial stereotyping and tension as a means to an emotional end.

Like those other films, Los Angeles is the setting. I've lived in L.A. and can testify that it is the loneliest city in the world. You never really feel like you make any true connections with people in that city. All those that were born there have moved away, and all those who live there now are temporarily relocated from other cities. No one seems to call Los Angeles their real home.

The opening lines of the film, muttered by the fabulous Don Cheadle, capture that essence entirely.

I won't recount the many plot threads that this film traverses. But in true Altman / PT Anderson fashion, the stories are all interconnected via family or coincidence.

There are some truly remarkable performances in "Crash" despite the fact that no one really gets the bulk of the screen time.

Cheadle stands out and is quickly becoming one of our finest American actors. Jennifer Esposito delivers a fiery and powerful turn here. Even small roles by Sandra Bullock, Ryan Phillippe, Brendan Fraser & William Fichtner deserve merit. Matt Dillon, Ludacris, the sublime Thandie Newton, Michael Pena and Terrence Dashon Howard all deliver brilliantly. It is a great ensemble performance that will be remembered at next year's SAG awards.

The main issue I had with this film was its use of coincidence. It just seemed all too forced in this film that is otherwise based in very serious reality. I felt a little manipulated by some crafty screenwriting. I didn't buy the plausibility of many of the situations.

I still recommend the film to any and all art house fans... but even with its desire to be more commercial than its predecessors, I don't think too many Star Wars fanatics will be giving up their place in line to watch this one. Those of you with Vin Diesel posters in your bedroom should steer well clear of "Crash"! The title may suggest an action movie, but it refers more to the lonely thud of hitting rock bottom in a city that doesn't care.

© Written by TC Candler

How We Rated This Film TC Candler - A- Richard Propes - B+ Jacob Hall - B

Richard Propes' Comment

After penning last year's Oscar-winning "Million Dollar Baby," Paul Haggis returns to helm "Crash," a film shot in a style reminiscent of P.T. Anderson's "Magnolia," but which lacks that films emotional impact and cohesiveness.

Ironically, I blame Haggis for many of the problems with this film. It is blessed with outstanding, and often unexpectedly strong performances, by its ensemble cast. However, what should have been an "A" range film ends up barely missing because of Haggis' desire to draw out scenes unnecessarily and a few too many melodramatic camera shots.

The film serves up commentary on racism, prejudice and the interconnectedness of everyone with Los Angeles as the setting. It's a lofty message, and one that is hindered by Haggis' inabililty to give us a consistent sympathetic character. I accept that none of us are completely innocent and, likewise, none completely guilty...but, the lack of a sympathetic character reduces the dramatic tension necessary to create a film with lasting impact.

Jacob Hall's Comment

N/A