The Negotiator


Starring: Samuel L. Jackson, Kevin Spacey, J.T. Walsh, Ron Rifkin, David Morse, John Spencer
Directed by: F. Gary Gray
Rating: R
Genre: Action, Thriller
1998

Times Seen:
Tim: 2

Summary:A Chicago police negotiator (Samuel L. Jackson) finds himself accused of murdering his partner over an illegal deal gone sour. He tries to proclaim his innocent, but evidence mounts up against him. In a desperate attempt, he takes hostages in a police headquarters in order to try and buy time to figure out who the killer really is. Another police negotiator (Kevin Spacey) is brought in to try and diffuse the situation. The problem is, he is negotiating with a negotiator. Time begins to run out and if his innocence isn't proved, he will either go to jail or be killed.

Review:

Tim: The Negotiator is an intense thriller. F. Gary Gray directs his film very well, slowly increasing the suspense until it reaches a boiling point.

This film is so fun to watch because of the performances of Samuel L. Jackson and Kevin Spacey. As two hostage negotiators engaged in a battle of wits where lives are at stake, you have the formual for an intense, enjoyable film. You won't be able to pull your eyes away as Jackson tries desperately to prove him innocence and Spacey tries to figure out what exactly is going on.

The Negotiator is also a terrific film about corrupt cops and a search to uncover the truth. However, this is a tired storyline that has been done time and time again.

It is in this aspect that The Negotiator falls shortest. The end of the movie is ridiculous. it is absurd that the oldest trick in the book works. There are such better ways to end a film like this. The producers, director, and especially the writers all took the road more often traveled instead of being creative. Watch for the ending, it is the weakest part of the film.

Despite some severe flaws, this film is an intense action thriller that will at least keep you entertained (if not wishing it was more original). Jackson and Spacey lead an incredible cast. This movie is very much worth your time.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 7.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: A Time to Kill, Mercury Rising, The Net, Twisted, The Usual Suspects