Today’s quick review: Crash. One night in Los Angeles, two young men (Chris “Ludacris” Bridges and Larenz Tate) carjack the District Attorney (Brendan Fraser) and his wife (Sandra Bullock). Elsewhere, a detective (Don Cheadle) wrestles with a sensitive case, while a rookie cop (Ryan Phillippe) tries to conront his racist partner (Matt Dillon). Meanwhile, a hard-working locksmith (Michael Pena) puts up with ungrateful customers to provide for his family.
Crash is a crime drama that takes place over the course of a day and two nights in Los Angeles. The movie follows its ensemble cast through a series of tense interactions that have profound effects on each of their lives. Crash deals with heavy themes such as racial tensions, the nature of justice, and the question of what defines a person’s character. The movie’s skilled cast and intricate plot make it a memorable watch for the right viewer.
Crash follows half a dozen plot threads involving Los Angeles residents from all walks of life. Its characters’ decisions, often made under pressure and without thinking, have far-reaching consequences. Crash requires the audience to be patient as its threads gradually come together, but the payoff is substantial. Crash’s striking reversals and potent emotional moments justify the audience’s investment, even if not every bit of drama hits the mark.
Still, Crash’s particular flavor of drama will not be for everyone. The setup involves a series of hostile, racially charged interactions that cast many of the characters in a negative light, even if they are given the chance to grow later on. The movie enjoys putting its characters in no-win situations, blurring the line between moral principle and practical reality. And while Crash tells a complete story, the issues it addresses are left open-ended.
Crash’s sprawling plot and potent themes make it a unique watch. Those who are willing to engage with sensitive political issues and risk walking away without clear answers will find Crash to be a rewarding puzzle with a lot of humanity. Viewers who are in the mood for an easier watch, one with a simpler plot and clearer answers, may want to look elsewhere.
For another crime drama that subverts the preconceptions of its characters, try Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri. For a crime drama that delves deeper into police corruption and the conflicting pressures on officers, try Pride and Glory, Brooklyn’s Finest, or Dark Blue. For a lighter movie with the same intersecting storytelling style, try Love Actually or Intermission.
7.7 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.5 for an intricate story with moments of heart.