Reviewing my DVD collection: Collateral

Far and away, my favorite Michael Mann film.

The cinematography in this film is amazing. The way Mann shoots LA is unlike anything I’ve ever seen in a movie. It’s as if the city itself is a character in the film and I’ve never seen anyone aside from Scorcese be able to do that with a film’s setting.

Tom Cruise turns in one of those performances that makes you wish that he wasn’t such a weirdo and aside from Oliver North’s Any Given Sunday, this is my favorite Jamie Foxx performance for its subtlety and its every-man believability. The film’s supporting performances are also really strong, starting with Mark Ruffalo and Bruce McGill, one of the business’ most underrated character actors. Oscar award-winner Javier Bardem also makes an appearance in the film and is electric during his few moments on screen.

The comparison I can most readily make with this film is to Michael Clayton. The film isn’t based on a mind-blowing premise but the performances, the writing and the way in which the film is made make it compelling and ultimately worth seeing.