Bait

I recently rewatched Bait (2000) on Tubi. The plot centers on a lifelong petty criminal offered a chance by the police to secure his freedom in exchange for helping them capture a targeted criminal. However, what appears to be a golden opportunity may carry unforeseen consequences for our thief.

Directed by Antoine Fuqua (Training Day), the film features an ensemble cast including Jamie Foxx (Ray), David Morse (The Green Mile), Kimberly Elise (Diary of a Mad Black Woman), Mike Epps (Next Friday), Jamie Kennedy (Scream 2), and David Paymer (Get Shorty).

Bait is one of those films that consistently surprises with its humor, largely thanks to Jamie Foxx's comedic prowess. The character development is well-done, allowing Foxx ample room for his comedic escapades. Additionally, the love story and baby elements add depth, with Kimberly Elise delivering a strong performance. However, beyond the character development, the film falls into the realm of predictability, with a straightforward storyline and exaggerated circumstances leading to an ending that may seem too convenient.

In conclusion, while Bait offers comedic moments and showcases Jamie Foxx's talents, it struggles to rise above its ordinary storyline. I would rate it a 6/10 but still recommend giving it a watch, if only for Foxx's performance.

"Bait" is the type of film that makes you say "Wow!!!! I enjoyed this film."

There are several things I enjoyed about "Bait." The first thing was the villainous character played by Doug Hutchison. His character is the second villain since Will Patton's Gen. Bethlahem in "The Postman" that was not only excellently played but done so with such brilliance.

The second thing I enjoyed was the fact that the script seemed to be so unique in what was being played out on screen. When I go to movies I look for originality and that is what I found with "Bait." Furthermore, it was not just action nor was it a comedy but it was I was so glad to see David Morse back on the screen after his captivating performance in "The Green Mile."

Finally, I enjoyed how "Bait" never let up from the beginning to the end. Also, each cast member brings something special to "Bait," which makes it much more dramatic and funny film.

"Bait" is a film that will appeal to everyone young and old and for those who like dramatic scenes as well as comedic scenes. I give this film two thumbs up.

This was a good movie to rent. I enjoyed it for it's entertainment. This is not a movie that I would have to see over and over again, then again there are very few movies that good.

Overall, though, this was a well made and entertaining movie. After reading some of the reviews, I still hear people who are wanting perfection out of a movie before they can just sit down and enjoy. People, remember they are just movies. If you want reality watch the news. At least this movie had some good acting and some humor built into it. I'll be the first to admit that I have seen some better movies than this one, but then again, I have seen way worse.

If you just enjoy sitting back and laughing, with a little bit of adrenaline rush, rent this movie.

The sophomore feature of visual stylist Antoine Fuqua ("Training Day", "Brooklyn's Finest") rotates around a simple, but pretty brill idea. After a bank heist gone awry when psychotic computer whizz Bristol (Doug Hutchison) executes several guards, heavy-duty specialist Jaster escapes in a truck filled with gold. Soon he is captured, however only after the loot has been hidden. During his stay in prison he confides in Alvin Sanders (Jamie Foxx), small time crook caught stealing shrimp, sorry, prawns, from a warehouse. Soon after Jaster unfortunately gets a heart attack during interrogation by agent Edgar Clenteen (David Morse), leaving Sanders to be privy to key knowledge. In an attempt to capture the dangerous Bristol, Sanders is unknowingly bugged and released from prison, as live bait...

Fuqua is undoubtedly one of the most intriguing African-American directors out there and here is proof of capabilities, albeit delivery is faulty and jumpy. Much can be attributed to the apparent: Fuqua seems to be a director heavily dependant on source material. Given a good script he will deliver a brilliant movie. However "Bait" possesses only a mediocre one, fraught with lesser plot holes and unfeasible situations. Furthermore Jamie Foxx struggles to capture the role of a talkative Chris Rock wannabee, feeling much better in more dramatic or action-packed sequences, where he excels.

Nonetheless a thrilling ride with some stunningly filmed sequences overflowing with potential and well-thought gimmickry. Just needed some polishing in dialogue and plot to push up the satisfaction level to more acceptable levels.

The previews on TV made this movie look like a dumb-guy goofball comedy, and with Jamie Foxx in the lead it was worth seeing just for that.

So when it turned out to be a full-on big time movie with lots of action, great characters (including a host of well done supporting roles), true love, a government conspiracy and some genuine laugh-out-loud moments, I WAS PLEASANTLY SURPRISED!