| I get the distinct
impression that this action classic is highly underrated. What's
not to love? I suppose some people have claimed that the plot is
too convoluted and the stunts too impossible. But then again...
to quote Anthony Hopkins from the sequel... this isn't called Mission:
Difficult! I loved every aspect of this film... especially the
eclectic cast. This film has a very European feel to it and that
is especially evident in the casting of Emmanuelle Beart, Kristin
Scott Thomas and Jean Reno (among others), who all add a dimension and
class to the proceedings that may not have been there otherwise.
The plot is filled with twist and turns, misdirection and betrayal,
elaborate set pieces and on-location shooting. This is a
spectacular film experience. No corners were cut in the making
of this movie.
I think this film's reputation suffers a little because of the
disappointing sequel which was horribly directed by the
ever-self-indulgent John Woo, a man who seems to gear all of his films
toward the teenage boy demographic. He always neglects story for
style. He tries to make cool movies rather than good ones.
However, this De Palma original is sexy and fun, fast paced and
intricate... It delivers everything that a film in this genre should.
It is entirely rewatchable, entertaining each and every time. It
is one of the very few 'pure action films' that lands squarely in my
Top 100. |
