Enemy of the State

Starring: Will Smith, Gene Hackman, Jon Voight, Barry Pepper, Regina King, Jake Busey, Scott Caan, Jamie Kennedy, Gabriel Byrne, Jack Black, Jason Robards, Tom Sizemore, Seth Green, Philip Baker Hall, Jason Lee
Directed by: Tony Scott
Rating: R
Genre: Action, Drama, Thriller
Box Office: $
1998

Times Seen:
Tim: 2

Summary: An ordinary man (Will Smith) is caught up in a governmental conspiracy when NSA agents believe he has something of great importance. He pairs up with an ex-fed (Gene Hackman) to escape capture and try to uncover what exactly he is supposed to have.

Review:

Tim: What amazes me about Will Smith is that he can be successful in almost any kind of film. Here, he is starring in an adult drama thriller. And, like most of his films, this one is very good. This movie works for a number of reasons, but one of chief importance is the cast. It is literally unbelievable.

You have Will Smith in the lead role, paired with the always good Gene Hackman. You have Jon Voight as a bad guy, and supporting performances by Barry Pepper, Jake Busey, Scott Caan, Jamie Kennedy, Jason Lee, Gabriel Byrne, Jack Black, Tom Sizemore, and Seth Green. Read that again. That is an impressive cast. The best moments are the ones where Smith and Hackman interact.

This film works because it preys on our worst paranoias, especially brought on by the advent of ubiquitous technology. How has this changed our life, and what could happen if technology was used against us?

The movie is complex, twisting and turning, and ultimately, proves far more intelligent than we first expected. This is where the movie is at its best. This is not to say the film doesn't have its flaws. At times, it can be a bit confusing. It is a little too long and drawn out.

Enemy of the State is an intense, thrilling movie. The cast is superb, and the movie is entertaining. The film is in very capable hands. With Will Smith in the lead, you know this film can't be bad at all.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 7.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: I am Legend,; I, Robot; Bad Boys