Today’s quick review: Inside Man. When Dalton Russell (Clive Owen), an unusually intelligent criminal, robs a New York City bank and takes dozens of hostages, Detective Keith Frazier (Denzel Washington), a hostage negotiator, is called in to handle the situation. Meanwhile, Arthur Case (Christopher Plummer), the chairman of the bank, hires Madeleine White (Jodie Foster) to secure the contents of a sensitive safe deposit box within the bank.
Inside Man is a crime drama from director Spike Lee. Inside Man boasts an interesting plot, a well-rounded cast, and solid execution. The movie takes the usual bank robbery framework and renovates it, swapping in clever developments and an intriguing central mystery. Dalton Russell’s careful planning places the mechanics of the robbery front and center, while Keith Frazier’s sharp detective work turns each new twist into a puzzle to figure out.
Inside Man’s cast is impressive without being flashy. Denzel Washington, Clive Owen, and Jodie Foster all do an excellent job in their roles: competent, independent, and even likable, but believably human and balanced well together. The supporting cast inclues Christopher Plummer, Willem Dafoe, and Chiwetel Ejiofor and keeps up the trend of memorable characters who still fit into a cohesive whole.
As for its direction, Inside Man knows what it is doing. Spike Lee fleshes out his scenes with realistic touches that show an eye for detail. These touches help sell the story and never slow the movie down. Inside Man also keeps several irons in the fire at once. Between the heist itself, the larger mystery, and the machinations of its characters, the movie always has a way to keep its momentum up.
Watch Inside Man if you are in the mood for a high-quality crime movie. Its smart writing, polished presentation, and low levels of violence make it a satisfying watch with broad appeal. Those looking for an action movie, a gritty thriller, or a truly mind-bending mystery should look elsewhere. For a more personal bank robbery story, check out Dog Day Afternoon.
7.6 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.5 for good writing, acting, and presentation.