“Crash” (Lions Gate Films)
“Crash” is a movie that weaves a spell within its first few minutes. It introduces a large cast and then spends the next two hours telling their stories. It is so well written and so well acted that you are amazed by its force and energy. Just as Robert Altman has learned to control and utilize a large and varied cast, so does Director Paul Haggis with “Crash.” This is an important movie and the best so far of 2005.
Two of the first characters introduced in the movie are Graham and Ria (Don Cheadle and Jennifer Esposito). They are LA police detectives who have been involved in a car crash. The movie now flashes back to events that led up to this crash.
Brendan Fraser and Sandra Bullock play members of LA’s society. As they leave a posh party they are carjacked by characters played by Ludicris and Larenz Tate. As they drive off in the stolen car these two characters have one of the most bizarre but enlightening conversations about race relations you have ever heard. And it has to be heard to be believed.
Later on we meet Matt Dillon and Ryan Phillippe who play two LA cops. They pull a car over in which Terrence Howard and Thandie Newton play the occupants. This scene is one of the most intense in the movie and one of the most controversial. You will not be able to take your eyes off the screen when this story arc is being shown.
On and on the movie goes, interweaving these stories and also adding additional characters. Everything shown is believable and everything is riveting. Paul Haggis, who wrote the screenplay for “Million Dollar Baby” is the writer/director here and he shows he is adept in both arenas of filmmaking.
The film is rated R for profanity, violence and nudity.
“Crash” is a dramatic and constantly entertaining film. It is also one that constantly surprises the audience. It not only provides us with two hours of good filmmaking, it also educates and enlightens us. You will not forget the lessons of “Crash” as soon as you leave the theater. You will think about it for days and weeks to come.
It is a little early in the year to pick a “Best Movie of 2005,” but it is a sure thing that “Crash” will be in the competition for that award.
I scored “Crash” a jolting 9 out of 10.
