Spike works the inside

Our rating:

For his second feature film in a row (after the less-than-successful She Hate Me), Spike Lee explores money – or more particularly what people will do to get it. On this occasion, he also chooses to expand his sights to include contemplations on corruption, guilt, redemption and even capitalism itself - and of course, being Spike Lee, on New York City. But what makes Inside Man a thoroughly successful film is that Lee also explores these themes in the context of an engrossing genre thriller.

Inside Man uses the rather familiar bank robbery-hostage drama scenario to tell his story; and as a thriller, it works well. Although Lee lifts his foot from the pedal late in the piece, for the most part, the tension is palpable and the action engrossing.

Although the film in some ways resembles Sidney Lumet’s Dog Day Afternoon (and actually directly references it at one point), this is a very different kettle of fish. Indeed, as Inside Man developed, it reminded me more of a political thriller than a crime drama. Russell Gerwitz’s script contains plenty of twists and turns, but never descends into cliché or predictability. It in fact subverts many of the genre’s clichés with great style.

The film opens with a brief explanation by Dalton Russell (Clive Owen), of what is to unfold. As Russell explains, he has planned to execute the perfect bank robbery. He and his gang walk into a New York bank branch disguised as painters. Once inside, they break out weapons and take all those inside – staff and customers – hostage. The predictable police response brings negotiator Detective Keith Frazier (Denzel Washington) and his partner Det. Bill Mitchell (Chiwetel Ejiofor) to the scene. Frazier isn’t the first choice for the job, but circumstances mean he’s sent to resolve the situation. Frazier’s recent troubles also don’t sit well with the scene commander Capt. Darius (Willem Dafoe). But this is no routine bank robbery. When it becomes clear that the situation has some connection with the bank’s founder and chairman of the board, Arthur Case (Christopher Plummer), things take a twist as Madeline White (Jodie Foster), a “fixer” with “special skills” appears on the scene.

There’s a lot to like about this film. From Lee’s consummate command of its pacing to Terence Blanchard’s eloquent score, there’s quality aplenty. Perhaps it doesn’t have the ferocious intensity of Lee’s early films like Do the Right Thing or Jungle Fever, but this is a mature and intelligent outing from the director. And although his recent 25th Hour is arguably superior, Inside Man is still an intriguing and compelling film.

With a killer cast like this one, you’d expect great performances, and they don’t disappoint. Washington is back to his commanding best as Frazier, and also takes the time to show us the character’s more vulnerable side. Clive Owen (who spends much of the time behind a mask and dark glasses) is excellent as Russell; as is Christopher Plummer as the secretive Case. Willem Dafoe is sadly underused as Capt. Darius; but the same can’t be said for Jodie Foster, who steals every scene she’s in.

Inside Man is another fine example of Spike Lee’s talent as a filmmaker. With a strong script, assured direction and excellent performances, this is a film that exceeds expectations on every level. Lee continues to show why he’s still one of America’s most exciting filmmakers.

David Edwards

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Inside Man

Director: Spike Lee
Cast: Denzel Washington, Clive Owen, Christopher Plummer, Willem Dafoe and Jodie Foster
Release: Nationally on 30 March 2006
Rated: M