25th Hour

Starring: Edward Norton, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Barry Pepper, Rosario Dawson, Anna Paquin, Brian Cox, Aaron Stanford
Directed by: Spike Lee
Rating: R
Genre: Drama, Crime
2002

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: On the last night before a seven year prison sentence, a narcotics dealing (Edward Norton) spends time with his father (Brian Cox), girlfriend (Rosario Dawson), and best friends (Philip Seymour Hoffman, Barry Pepper) remembering the good times and reflecting on life.

Review:

Tim: Before I talk about anything else, I want to mention the best scene in the movie. It is Edward Norton's "F--- Everybody" monologue to himself in the mirror. This is Norton and director Spike Lee at their best. Watch for this scene.

Spike Lee meant for this movie to be a tribute to the heroes from 9/11. I understand his reasoning and desire to do so, but his in-film tribute feels a little out of place and detracts from the main story.

On the positive side, Lee assembled a great cast for the film. Norton is reliable as always in a great performance. Philip Seymour Hoffman gives one of his rare likeable performances. Barry Pepper is pretty good as a cocky, arrogant bachelor. These three actors make good yet unlikely friends. Anna Paquin is devilish. I am not the biggest fan of Rosario Dawson, but she compliments Norton well and was pretty enjoyable in her role. Brian Cox is decent as Norton's dad.

Lee films an amazing movie to look at. The cinematography for much of the film is exquisite. The movie is pretty depressing but interesting to watch how one man deals with his last day before going to a long prison sentence. It is fascinating to watch how his friends all act as if his life, or all intents and purposes, is over.

On a strange fact note, Tobey Maguire, of all people, helped produce this film. There is no real relevance here, I just thought you should know.

Lee ends his film is a great but confusing way. What exactly happens?? ARGH, I still do not know! 25th Hour has many of the better qualities of a Spike Lee film. The cast is excellent and the movie is pretty watchable. I think you will enjoy it.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 7.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: He Got Game, Do the Right Thing, American History X