Yes, it only simmers, not boils, but that's actually what I like about the film. I think too many of our reviewers want suspense films that are totally unrealistic. For the most part, I can imagine the events of this film happening. In fact, if you look at Snipes' career, over the long-haul, the more outlandish his films became, the more his career ebbed.
I always liked Wesley Snipes, and thought he could have been one of the most popular of the African-American actors that were coming into their own in the 1990s. I see his performance here as being solid. I can't say the same for Dennis Hopper's performance. The term "adequate" comes to mind. But not a very imaginative performance. He did his job, but does not inspire. Viggo Mortensen was more interesting. I enjoyed seeing Tony LoBionco, although I wondered if he got tired playing mob bosses.
The film had some nice touches. Different settings than typical in this type of film (e.g., a ballroom dance floor). And, the sub-story of the woman whose life never quite takes off, and she muddles through being a waitress at a "hash house", always waiting for the one man who pays attention to her to become what he says he can be; a rather tragic characterization.
My one big criticism of this film is the beginning. Dialog cycling through the different characters, attempting to show...well, what? Clever idea, but not fulfilled. It was at this point that I almost turned the flick off. But, it got better...but not great. But then again, I don't find the vast majority of "cops and robbers" stories to be great or inspiring.
It's a good film. Not a great film. Once was good. Probably won't watch it again.
I always liked Wesley Snipes, and thought he could have been one of the most popular of the African-American actors that were coming into their own in the 1990s. I see his performance here as being solid. I can't say the same for Dennis Hopper's performance. The term "adequate" comes to mind. But not a very imaginative performance. He did his job, but does not inspire. Viggo Mortensen was more interesting. I enjoyed seeing Tony LoBionco, although I wondered if he got tired playing mob bosses.
The film had some nice touches. Different settings than typical in this type of film (e.g., a ballroom dance floor). And, the sub-story of the woman whose life never quite takes off, and she muddles through being a waitress at a "hash house", always waiting for the one man who pays attention to her to become what he says he can be; a rather tragic characterization.
My one big criticism of this film is the beginning. Dialog cycling through the different characters, attempting to show...well, what? Clever idea, but not fulfilled. It was at this point that I almost turned the flick off. But, it got better...but not great. But then again, I don't find the vast majority of "cops and robbers" stories to be great or inspiring.
It's a good film. Not a great film. Once was good. Probably won't watch it again.