Typically, during the winter months most of the films that come out are late releases for films with award aspirations or, as in most cases, the dumping grounds for movies that have very low expectations. In recent years there were a few films that surprised by being better than anticipated, such as The Edge of Darkness and Unknown.
This year's first surprise hit is the crime thriller Contraband, directed by the relatively unknown, Baltasar Kormákur. Kormákur does a commendable job in ensuring that Contraband's pacing is fast and yet steady. There's a lot going on, however it's never difficult to follow. Kormákur's strength lies in the drama and intensity he builds into each scene. Kormákur is able to maintain the viewer's interest at all times; whether the scene takes place in New Orleans, in Panama or on the shipping vessel traveling between the two destinations. Each location is visually appealing and also provides great locations for the gritty action that takes place.
Mark Wahlberg, as reformed smuggler Chris Farraday, leads a very good cast. Chris attempts to make a better life for himself and his family, and as is often the case, is pulled back into the life he'd left behind. Wahlberg is at his best when given an excellent script and quality direction, as proved in such films as The Italian Job, Invincible, and Four Brothers. Contraband is another film of that variety, and Wahlberg is exceptional. Kate Beckinsale, as Chris' wife, Kate Farraday, adds a dramatic element to the film. Beckinsale has made a career out of playing women capable of taking care of themselves as well as being an action star in the Underworld series of films. Ben Foster is well cast as Chris' best friend, Sebastian. Foster excels in supporting roles such as this, as evidenced by his performances in Alpha Dog and The Mechanic. Giovanni Ribisi gives one of his best performances as the violently twisted Tim Briggs. The underrated Ribisi gives Briggs one of the most annoying voices in film, but somehow he makes it work. The rest of the supporting cast is equally praiseworthy and are utilized perfectly.
Contraband is the style of film that comes along after all the holiday pictures, romantic comedies or crappy horror movies (i.e. The Devil Inside) have come and run their course, and viewers need something to quench their thirst for excitement. Contraband provides the edge of your seat action thriller that caters to everyone. At a time when there aren't many movies capable of drawing viewers in, this is one that won't disappoint.
Grade: B+
Visit our site at www.twodudereview.com
This year's first surprise hit is the crime thriller Contraband, directed by the relatively unknown, Baltasar Kormákur. Kormákur does a commendable job in ensuring that Contraband's pacing is fast and yet steady. There's a lot going on, however it's never difficult to follow. Kormákur's strength lies in the drama and intensity he builds into each scene. Kormákur is able to maintain the viewer's interest at all times; whether the scene takes place in New Orleans, in Panama or on the shipping vessel traveling between the two destinations. Each location is visually appealing and also provides great locations for the gritty action that takes place.
Mark Wahlberg, as reformed smuggler Chris Farraday, leads a very good cast. Chris attempts to make a better life for himself and his family, and as is often the case, is pulled back into the life he'd left behind. Wahlberg is at his best when given an excellent script and quality direction, as proved in such films as The Italian Job, Invincible, and Four Brothers. Contraband is another film of that variety, and Wahlberg is exceptional. Kate Beckinsale, as Chris' wife, Kate Farraday, adds a dramatic element to the film. Beckinsale has made a career out of playing women capable of taking care of themselves as well as being an action star in the Underworld series of films. Ben Foster is well cast as Chris' best friend, Sebastian. Foster excels in supporting roles such as this, as evidenced by his performances in Alpha Dog and The Mechanic. Giovanni Ribisi gives one of his best performances as the violently twisted Tim Briggs. The underrated Ribisi gives Briggs one of the most annoying voices in film, but somehow he makes it work. The rest of the supporting cast is equally praiseworthy and are utilized perfectly.
Contraband is the style of film that comes along after all the holiday pictures, romantic comedies or crappy horror movies (i.e. The Devil Inside) have come and run their course, and viewers need something to quench their thirst for excitement. Contraband provides the edge of your seat action thriller that caters to everyone. At a time when there aren't many movies capable of drawing viewers in, this is one that won't disappoint.
Grade: B+
Visit our site at www.twodudereview.com