mrseldomseen

Most definitely one of Mr. Lee's, and this year's, best film offerings. The subject of black images in today's media couldn't be more timely with cats like Martin Lawrence and Puffy Daddy, among others, unceremoniously repping the black community. There's room for cats like that to do their thing, but what about the rest of the community hungry for more positive imagery? The cast was at the top of their game. Not a weak performance to be found. And that's because they were given actual characters they could parlay instead of the usual funny sidekick, noble support system roles they're usually saddled with. Hopefully, people will recognize what a gifted character actor Damon Wayans is after his performance in this film. Savion Glover has always been one of the most talented cats on the planet, but it took Spike Lee to give him a role worthy of his tremendous talents. And it's always good to see Jada Pinkett-Smith in a role worthy of her. The scene where Pierre Delacroix (Wayans) pitches "Mantan - The New Millennium Minstrel Show" to his boss Dunwitty (Michael Rapaport), who thinks he's the blackest man in the room, is hilarious. While the film may look like an attack on the caucasoid-owned white media, this is more of a wake-up call for the Black community to wrest control on how our lives are presented, instead of settling for how caucasians view and present us. Some people may find the ending too dark or off-track. But I thought it was a very valid and plausible ending considering the our violent climate (did anyone see "Network", and how did that end?). Maybe, if we had more crews like the Mau Maus (featuring Mos Def, MC Serch, and the under-appreciated Charli Baltimore) modern-day minstrelsy wouldn't be going down like it is presently. This film should not be judged based on it's advertising. Go see the film first and then make your decision. This is a well-written, imaginatively-directed cinematic class act. Spike's created another winner destined for time capsule status!!

Solid piece of filmmaking from Tarsem, in his major film debut. This film has something most American films lack: imagination. And what an imagination this director has. The script is solid, the performances on point (Sure we could always use more character development), and the visuals are an added bonus. Ms. Lopez proves herself to be one of films most exciting risk-takers by starring in this film. Vince Vaughn adds his usual rock-steady cool, and Marianne Jean-Baptiste is always exciting to watch - though I would have loved to see her venture into the killer's mind for a minute. Vincent D'Onofrio remains one of my top 5 favorite character actors, and is very effective here, as usual. He's played so many different characters it's hard to typecast him. His Starger is his creepiest role yet. So many American films are afraid to take any real chances, which is unfortunate. The last American film I saw prior to "The Cell" which took my breath away was "Magnolia". And that was last December. Think of all the films that have been released between "Magnolia" and "The Cell". Good job to everyone involved in the making of this movie.