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Brilliant. One word that sums up the new Spike Lee joint, Inside Man. Other adjectives would be stylistic, clever, twisty, and riveting. I love films that grab me from the opening note of the score and keep me engaged until the final Roman numeral of the credits. Inside Man brings the elements a movie needs without all the distractions we can do without.

This is the story of a bank heist in which all is not as it would seem. Dalton Russell (Clive Owen) has concocted the perfect scheme and all seems to be going as planned. When hostage negotiator Keith Frazier (Denzel Washington) is brought in to talk this guy out and work the release of the many hostages inside, a game of cat and mouse begins. A game in which you aren’t sure who the players are or who’s playing whom.

The writing. Fabulous. Could be the best written film I have seen this year. Russell Gewirtz will have a hard time topping this, his first credited writing gig. He writes like NY feels. Gritty and determined, with characters that are real and believable. He tells a story within a story with hooks, intelligence and quick-wittedness. All blended into a truly unique crime drama.

The acting. Superb writing breeds top notch acting. When you combine that with untouchables like Jodi Foster, Denzel Washington, Christopher Plummer and Willem Dafoe you know you are on the path to something good. Owen even holds his own and brings a special look and style to your modern day bank robber. Denzel shines in his portrayal of an up and coming detective who takes advantage of every situation as he relentlessly pursues the truth. I haven’t seen Washington this comfortable in a role in some time. He is effortless and convincing. Foster plays nicely as the cold, meticulous power broker hired to cover up a few loose ends. She exudes the strength and
cunning that makes her character breath.

The look and sound. Two main elements that this movie has. You can’t beat NY for a crime drama. Like 16 Blocks this film has that 70’s crime drama expression. The music fits the feel and intensity making a perfect backdrop for the rest of the pieces to move. No detail was left unnoticed. From Denzel's throwback detective's hat to the banter and determination of NYC’s finest. To me, the clear sign of a great movie is when I want to watch these characters over and over again. I want to tune in next week and see them spoil another bad guy’s day. This had it. The interaction was real. It was believable. The chemistry just clicked. Hats off to Spike Lee on his direction.

Inside Man is rated R for language and some violent images. It is a crime drama. It involves tough cops and criminals. The language is going to reflect that. The plot relies more on creativity than carnage so the violence is not rampant. If you are a fan of sex and nudity, well you will be disappointed for this film has neither. I give Inside Man 4.75 out of 5 ATM’s. Your money is safe with this one. With a look at Inside Man, I’m Matt Mungle.

The Mungle (3/22/06)

Matt is a member of the North Texas Film Critics Association (NTFCA) and hosts the weekly syndicated Indie Rock Radio Show Spin 180. Plus with his wife Cindy they do a weekly radio feature, The Mungles on Movies. For additional reviews and interview clips visit the website www.mungleshow.com"