Collateral
DreamWorks Distribution | Release Date: August 6, 2004
8.5
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Universal acclaim based on 525 Ratings
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10
Compi24Nov 28, 2012
Michael Mann's "Collateral" initially piqued my interest because of it's fairly intriguing premise; a cab driver happens to pick up a hitman for a passenger. However, as I watched the film, I realized that there was a lot more to this filmMichael Mann's "Collateral" initially piqued my interest because of it's fairly intriguing premise; a cab driver happens to pick up a hitman for a passenger. However, as I watched the film, I realized that there was a lot more to this film than the well-realized concept. The movie features a breadth of captivating performances. Namely, Cruise's badass "Vincent" character and Jamie Foxx's Academy Award nominated turn as "Max." Tom Cruise is hilariously entertaining in this. The movie features a virtual showcase of some good ol' psychopathic badassery on his part. Between him and Foxx, their chemistry also makes for great entertainment. In terms of technical aspects, the film does quite well at utilizing an arsenal of stylish, yet still subtle digital photography techniques. This has to be one of the best looking L.A. films of all time. The ending sequence is probably one of the most absorbing set pieces I've ever seen. Really stressful stuff. Overall, "Collateral" makes for an incredibly satisfying viewing experience with a smart story, superb acting, and a helluva lot of thrills.… Expand
8 of 8 users found this helpful80
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9
alejandro970Sep 6, 2020
While the city sleeps, a taxi driver must act as a chauffeur for a hit man. The dose of suspense is adequate, capturing the viewer's interest, especially in the last minutes. Tom Cruise is unrecognizable as the villain and that is preciselyWhile the city sleeps, a taxi driver must act as a chauffeur for a hit man. The dose of suspense is adequate, capturing the viewer's interest, especially in the last minutes. Tom Cruise is unrecognizable as the villain and that is precisely the main attraction.… Expand
3 of 3 users found this helpful30
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8
eva3si0nJun 19, 2022
Collateral is not a bad thriller with action elements. An excellent acting duet and the realism of the linear plot is enough to preserve the intrigue of what is happening in front of the viewer. This is a really good thriller, such films haveCollateral is not a bad thriller with action elements. An excellent acting duet and the realism of the linear plot is enough to preserve the intrigue of what is happening in front of the viewer. This is a really good thriller, such films have been sorely lacking lately. There is no tense suspense of the whole film, only episodically, but this is enough… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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9
DeanomiteJun 4, 2020
it is nice to see Tom Cruise as a villain, I cannot think of another movie with him as the bad guy. Michael Mann signature style is here, not as good as Heat or especially Manhunter (his best overall is Last of the Mohicans). Jamie Foxx isit is nice to see Tom Cruise as a villain, I cannot think of another movie with him as the bad guy. Michael Mann signature style is here, not as good as Heat or especially Manhunter (his best overall is Last of the Mohicans). Jamie Foxx is ok, he really only gets to be a spectator. Jada Pinkett Smith is actually sexy for once, and not a **** eraserhead.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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10
KelvinSelimorDec 17, 2020
Collateral. 2 men and 5 targets. After watching the trailer I thought it was a typical action movie starring Tom Cruise, but after half an hour it turned out to be a wrong opinion. This is an insanely cool movie with a very interestingCollateral. 2 men and 5 targets. After watching the trailer I thought it was a typical action movie starring Tom Cruise, but after half an hour it turned out to be a wrong opinion. This is an insanely cool movie with a very interesting relationship between the two main characters.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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9
AWESOM-0Jul 21, 2020
Awesome! One of Tom Cruises best roles and Jamie Foxx is great. The rest of the cast does a fantastic job as well. Mann does it again with an intense and gritty movie.
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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9
geewahMar 30, 2021
This movie is arguably the finest performance of Tom Cruise's career.
Michael Mann has made a tight and enthralling thriller that is more about the interactions between it's two leads (Cruise & Foxx), than it is about action scenes.
One ofThis movie is arguably the finest performance of Tom Cruise's career.
Michael Mann has made a tight and enthralling thriller that is more about the interactions between it's two leads (Cruise & Foxx), than it is about action scenes.
One of 2004's best movies.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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9
ColginatorAug 5, 2015
You're driving a car. There's a man sitting behind you. He intends to kill 5 people and wants you to drive him to them. What do you do? This concept is the focus of Collateral, putting a normal man in to an impossible situation and followingYou're driving a car. There's a man sitting behind you. He intends to kill 5 people and wants you to drive him to them. What do you do? This concept is the focus of Collateral, putting a normal man in to an impossible situation and following his desperation as he tries to do whatever he can to make it through the night.

Whilst this is the film's story, it begins as a movie with a far different tone. To begin with we follow cab driver Max (Jamie Foxx) as he carries out his normal night of fares. He picks up a woman named Annie (Jada Pinkett Smith) and they flirt and talk as he drives her on the journey. He talks of his dreams of making his own Limo company and she talks of her stressed life as a Lawyer. It ends with her thanking him and passing a number. This scene is great partly because it works so well on its own, almost like a separate short film. It's a romance that does not feel phoned in at all, but instead develops some genuine chemistry between the pair.

More importantly, it's an essential scene in showing us the kind of man Max is in his normal life. He's just a regular guy, who may dream of his limo business but has never had the nerve to act. It's important we see this so we can understand the normal person he is before his life is very suddenly thrown into disarray. This happens when a man named Vincent (Tom Cruise) pays Max $600 to drive him for the night and get him to the airport as he hates life in the city and wants to leave as soon as possible. However Max discovers that his passenger is a hit-man and is taken hostage to drive Vincent to 5 targets he needs to kills that night. After this we watch as Max reluctantly drives him wherever he's told, trying to get away from at every possible turn and reduce the death toll in Vincent's path.

By all rights the plot is something that you would expect from a typical action movie. But the film is able to elevate it far above the standard action movie formula through the very realistic approach it uses to tackle the story. This is done by constantly grounding the story through Max. He's nothing like your usual John McClane action hero who spouts out one liners and makes light of the situation, but instead a very uncertain and terrorised victim. His attempts to get away from Vincent are often badly thought out and he reacts to murder just as any ordinary person would. Foxx's down to earth performance is definitely the anchor of the film as it ensures that the focus is not on the action, but rather a tense conversation between a sociopathic killer and a man in fear of his life and the lives of those around him.

When it comes to who you might picture in the role of a murderer, it's unlikely that Cruise would be the first person to come to mind. However Cruise also does a great job at playing outside his usual roles. Instead of being the cocky likable hero, he's a very detached man who's able to blend into crowds and drift in and out without turning a single head. He's utterly ruthless with no regard for human life and will do anything he needs to get the job done. He doesn't even feel guilt for any of his actions and looks down on others like Max who do feeling it as redundant to feel empathy for people he never even knew. He even disdains the typical life of people in a city like Los Angeles, where people seem to just drift through their lives and never take any real risk in their lives.

This story could have all too easily been a run of the mill action movie. But fortunately through both Mann's great direction, a screenplay that knows to put the focus on character over action and great casting, it becomes a truly incredible thriller.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
MattBrady99Aug 30, 2015
Collateral might actually be my favorite movie from Michael Mann. Tom Cruise and Jamie Foxx both gave a great and unforgettable performance in this movie, and the fact that Tom Cruise is playing a villain was so brilliant and payed offCollateral might actually be my favorite movie from Michael Mann. Tom Cruise and Jamie Foxx both gave a great and unforgettable performance in this movie, and the fact that Tom Cruise is playing a villain was so brilliant and payed off excellently well, and that was pulled off by the writing, the directing, and Cruise himself. Michael Mann has a beautiful and yet stunning vision of LA nights that got me this warm feeling inside of me with this open world feel to it and the amazing cinematography that got me so awe-stuck. A lot of people say Heat is their favorite Michael Mann movie and while I do like Heat I got to say that I enjoyed and loved Collateral a little more.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
langerston05Jan 23, 2021
Collateral is an amazing action thriller from acclaimed director Michael Mann. From the first scene to the last, great performances propel incredible cinematography and thrilling action sequences forward to create a film that is trulyCollateral is an amazing action thriller from acclaimed director Michael Mann. From the first scene to the last, great performances propel incredible cinematography and thrilling action sequences forward to create a film that is truly memorable in every aspect. Please, for anybody on the fence about seeing it, I promise you that it is worth your time.

Parental review:

Concerns: The movie contains a fair amount of violence, though none especially graphic. Here is a catalogue of every act of aggression in “Collateral”: A dude is shot offscreen and lands on a car, with a decent amount of blood, but only briefly. Two guys are shot dead in an ally. The first one is hit with two rounds in the chest and then one round in the head, but extremely quickly and it sounds way worse than it looks. The second guy gets hit twice in the chest and then shot point blank at a far camera angle, which is admittedly slightly jarring, though there isn’t any blood. A dude is shot suddenly several times at point blank range, and even though there’s only a tiny amount of blood, this is definitely the most intense act of aggression in the film, due to the sudden appearance of a gun and merciless, unflinching shooting. Later, in the Fever Club incident, several people are hit with gunfire and emit large puffs of smoke. Later, a guy is hit twice in the chest and once in the head in rapid succession, though the head wound looks pretty unrealistic. The last act of aggression occurs when a character is hit in the ear, causing much blood to spurt forth, though this wound is non-fatal and as such is less graphic.

Language: Mean language is the films biggest concern, with 9 uses of the flip word and several s-type words. There is also the donkey word a lot of times. And some dams and hels. Condensed Catalog of Concerns:

Some guys are shot, and there’s moderate of the flip word.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
Embalmer98Jun 10, 2021
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1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
Pluto744Jun 22, 2021
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9
ReceptacleJun 24, 2021
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1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
Xenophobe114Jun 25, 2021
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9
Acquit77Jul 18, 2021
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1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
ZiggyStardustJun 15, 2011
A great movie to enjoy alone. It may appear superficial, but it truly tries to deliver a message. For everyone who enjoys good movies, this is a must see. Definitely one of Tom Cruise's best performances.
10 of 11 users found this helpful101
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10
JorjiCostavaJan 13, 2014
This movie is my all-time favourite. It offers awesome acting from Jamie Foxx and especially from Tom Cruise, in one of the finest performances I've ever seen. It also boasts great dialogue. Combine this with absolutely thrilling scenes andThis movie is my all-time favourite. It offers awesome acting from Jamie Foxx and especially from Tom Cruise, in one of the finest performances I've ever seen. It also boasts great dialogue. Combine this with absolutely thrilling scenes and tense moments, and you get a breathtaking, heart-stopping thrill ride from director Michael Mann. A masterpiece.… Expand
12 of 15 users found this helpful123
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10
ReelViews94Mar 23, 2016
Reasserting his status as the cinematic master poet of nocturnal Los Angeles, Michael Mann has elevated a gritty but straightforward story — about a hit man forcing a taxi driver to take him on his appointed rounds during one violent night —Reasserting his status as the cinematic master poet of nocturnal Los Angeles, Michael Mann has elevated a gritty but straightforward story — about a hit man forcing a taxi driver to take him on his appointed rounds during one violent night — into a mesmerizing, sometimes thrilling ride in “Collateral.” Occupying a dramatic, philosophical and sensory twilight zone that casts a considerable spell, this intensely focused piece soars not only on the director’s precision-tooled style but also on the outstanding interplay between leads Tom Cruise and Jamie Foxx. Star power, top reviews and powerfully delivered crime movie pleasures should translate into muscular B.O. in all markets.

Everything, from the gun-metal gray of Cruise’s hair and suit, the exceptional selection of precise locations and the dense mix of the soundtrack to the psychological overlays among the characters and Mann’s creative leap that led him to shoot most of the picture on high-definition digital video, evinces an enormous sense of artistic concentration that translates into complete audience absorption in matters at hand.

After his excursions into corporate, political and biographical drama in “The Insider” and “Ali,” Mann returns to the home turf he so voluptuously explored in “Heat.” New film is not as ambitious as that staggering 1995 release — it’s like a series of striking pen-and-ink drawings compared with a multicolored mural too big even for the giant wall it’s painted on — and it deflates a bit toward the end, as relatively conventional cat-and-mouse chase dynamics through an office building and subway take front and center after the bracing long-arc build-up. It’s a smaller film, but one that — as a trawl through the city’s scary underworld — reminds at times of “Training Day,” but also stands as a worthy Left Coast response to Scorsese’s indelible portraits of nighttime New York, “Taxi Driver” and “After Hours.”

Mann’s decision to shoot about 80% of the film in high def (a modified Thomson Grass Valley Viper FilmStream and the Sony CineAlta were both used) came from his conviction that the format more closely represents, and exceeds, what the human eye sees at night than does celluloid. Compared with the rich, intense color palettes Mann has employed in his previous work, “Collateral” has a more monochrome look that, paradoxically, combines a sense of deep darkness with a certain washed-out thinness and lack of visual weight. Punctuating this at all times, though, are the pervasive lights of the sprawling city, the appearance of which justifies the use of the new technology; to be sure, the sight of a succession of planes lined up in the air to land at LAX at night, or the spooky yellow glare in coyotes’ eyes, have never been so strikingly or realistically rendered as they are here.

Through the film’s ever-strengthening midsection, one memorable set piece follows another: A visit to a Crenshaw jazz club hinges on a meaning-laden exchange about Miles Davis between Vincent and the boite’s trumpet-playing owner (a superb Barry Shabaka Henley); Irma P. Hall invigorates a hospital visit the men pay to Max’s ailing mother; Max manages to turn the tables on his nemesis in a surprising chase that ends over a freeway, and the great Javier Bardem nails his one scene as a drug lord who relates a telling little parable to his guest.

But it’s all preparation for a sensational 10-minute Asian nightclub melee in which all the opposing forces — Vincent and Max, the cops led by Fanning and joined by Feds headed by Pedrosa (Bruce McGill), the suspicious drug lord’s goons and club henchmen there to protect Vincent’s quarry — converge amid hundreds of oblivious revelers partying to a throbbing techno beat. The action, in which many are killed, is intentionally confusing up to a point but clear enough in the end, and conveyed with cinematic command that’s breathtaking.

Shifting gears to play an outright villain, Cruise is at or near his best here. Hard and cold and endowed with sharp practical intelligence, Vincent has vulnerabilities that the actor reveals in carefully chosen moments. But it’s his ability to keep his eyes on the prize that defines him, and it’s this trait that Max adopts of necessity to get through the night.

Entirely dropping his comic persona, Foxx proves a terrific foil. Establishing Max as someone others find easy to talk to, Foxx doesn’t overdo the character’s shock and hysteria at his sudden misfortune, nor does he make him seem overly weak only to become falsely brave. What he does do is create a memorable portrait of a very ordinary man placed in extraordinary circumstances.

James Newton Howard’s score with source music, tunes of diverse origins and ambient noises, plays a very large role in sustaining the hypnotic mood.

A true masterpiece!… Expand
3 of 4 users found this helpful31
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8
FranzHcriticJun 20, 2014
It's an engaging thriller with a perfect pace and timing. The tense moments are enhanced by the combined performances of Jamie Foxx and Tom Cruise. Foxx's realism and Cruise's coldness and calculation sport an unlikely yet interesting duo,It's an engaging thriller with a perfect pace and timing. The tense moments are enhanced by the combined performances of Jamie Foxx and Tom Cruise. Foxx's realism and Cruise's coldness and calculation sport an unlikely yet interesting duo, whose moral clashes never distract the audience from the impending violence to occur in downtown Los Angeles… Expand
4 of 6 users found this helpful42
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10
ProteusJul 26, 2018
A lost treasure. Brilliantly entertaining. Foxx and Cruise are captivating. The whole thing works. Classic Micheal Mann.
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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10
bfoore90Jun 12, 2017
Probably my favorite Tom Cruise movie as a whole, Michael Mann delivers a gritty and tense thriller led by a razor sharp, almost chilling performance by Tom Cruise.
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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9
Depose570May 16, 2021
kmmhihiteqweertyuuipplkmmkmjhhhbffcdsxssfhjklnfryjjjjkko,,,,,,,.......,,,,,,,,,,,.......,,,,...,,,,,.....,,,....
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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8
cameronmorewoodNov 17, 2012
Director Michael Mann is a smart and experienced one, and he knows how to make his thriller without insulting our intelligence, but while still dazzling us with a wicked labyrinth of a plot. Collateral is also punctuated by some determinedDirector Michael Mann is a smart and experienced one, and he knows how to make his thriller without insulting our intelligence, but while still dazzling us with a wicked labyrinth of a plot. Collateral is also punctuated by some determined and surprisingly deep performances.… Expand
3 of 5 users found this helpful32
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8
grandpajoe6191Sep 29, 2011
Veteran Director Michael Mann's "Collateral" is a very smart movie. It silences the audience with rich visuals and carefully chosen words, changing a average story into a amazingly tense one.
6 of 11 users found this helpful65
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8
TyranianApr 7, 2019
Very clever thriller with terrific mood. Excellent acting and music to boot.
2 of 4 users found this helpful22
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8
chwJun 8, 2015
Collateral was a really good movie. You would swear that everyone did what they did in this outside of acting, especially by Foxx (even though he doesn't get paid much for a job he acts out so well).
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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8
RalfbergsAug 18, 2015
I quite enjoyed this movie, it was fun, had plenty of action and tension until the end. Of course, some parts were quite unreallistic, but it is like that for many action/thriller movies, so I'll forgive them that. Good acting from Tom CruiseI quite enjoyed this movie, it was fun, had plenty of action and tension until the end. Of course, some parts were quite unreallistic, but it is like that for many action/thriller movies, so I'll forgive them that. Good acting from Tom Cruise and Jamie Foxx - they had a really good chemistry here I think and the movie wasn't that predictable (even though I guess the ending was).… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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7
DogeGamer2015Jan 31, 2021
Muy tensa, emocionante y épica; es una muy buena película con Tom Cruise; la recomiendo mucho.
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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8
beingryanjudeAug 27, 2014
A tense showcase of smart thrills and slick performances, Collateral is a successful pairing of Cruise and Foxx under the wing of Michael Mann. The concept is beguiling.
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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8
MovieGuysSep 15, 2013
Collateral was a good, action-packed thriller with enough taxi shots to last me a lifetime. Tom Cruise is at his best, and so is Jamie Foxx. Both actors contribute well-rounded,tough characters into a good cast, also including Javier BodemCollateral was a good, action-packed thriller with enough taxi shots to last me a lifetime. Tom Cruise is at his best, and so is Jamie Foxx. Both actors contribute well-rounded,tough characters into a good cast, also including Javier Bodem and Mark Ruffalo. This movie had a pace that was just right, as well as a story that was gripping and fun to watch. It also gave you a feel of time, because of the 5 jobs Tom Cruise had to pull. You knew were you were in the movie based on how many were left, granted you can do math. In summation, this was a good tale of two very different people having to put up with each other, even when guns are drawn. Jada Pinkett Smith tied the movie together, and also played the role well. The only negative thing i have to say is that it got a tiny bit slow at points, and the dialogue as well as camera shots could've been cleaned up a bit. But other than that, this is a flick worth watching.… Expand
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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8
heeldavidNov 23, 2014
This 2004 Michael Mann classic is a thrilling 120 minute ride, Awesome Acting from Jamie Foxx especially from Mr Cruise in a amazing villainous turn.
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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8
diogomendesOct 10, 2015
"Collateral" is pretty much a strong movie, and that's all thanks to the likes of Tom Cruise and Jamie Foxx. Some characters were killed off unnecessarily and I think some of those should have been more fleshed out, but this was an all-around"Collateral" is pretty much a strong movie, and that's all thanks to the likes of Tom Cruise and Jamie Foxx. Some characters were killed off unnecessarily and I think some of those should have been more fleshed out, but this was an all-around entertaining movie with tension and smooth direction. Pacing is another thing that is solid, and the well-handed camerawork gives L.A. a stunning look. Definitely going to be in my top of All-Time Favorite Movies.

Final Score: 8/10… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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8
BryantSmithAug 14, 2019
Michael Mann's Collateral is a film made by a master filmmaker. For years now, I have felt Michael Mann doesn't get the respect usually bestowed on his contemporaries. In Collateral a hitman (Tom Cruise) is assigned to take out a few targets.Michael Mann's Collateral is a film made by a master filmmaker. For years now, I have felt Michael Mann doesn't get the respect usually bestowed on his contemporaries. In Collateral a hitman (Tom Cruise) is assigned to take out a few targets. He takes a cab upon reaching Los Angeles and a rapport builds up between him and the driver (Jamie Foxx). Of course, he must ensue that the job is done and the entire film (which takes place over a night) we see the dual scenario of a killer doing what he does best, and then roaming around talking to his friend. Tom Cruise is in top notch here and the actor effortlessly glides into the role of a villain. Jamie Foxx is good and likeable enough you root for him. The film, as is the case with every Mann film is stylish and looks great. There is a serene sense of atmosphere and Mann is skilled enough to make the digital camera do wonderful things in the city of angels.(Stylish, atmospheric thriller).… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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7
HalfwelshmanOct 13, 2011
Collateral is a very enjoyable film for the most part, a clever variation on psycho-horror and hostage-thriller films. It is easily one of Tom Cruise's strongest performances (and quite creepily, when he intentionally plays "mad", he comesCollateral is a very enjoyable film for the most part, a clever variation on psycho-horror and hostage-thriller films. It is easily one of Tom Cruise's strongest performances (and quite creepily, when he intentionally plays "mad", he comes across as rather reserved, especially compared to his perceived off-screen persona). The dialogue throughout crackles - the script is of an extremely high quality, and both leads handle the material with extreme skill. My only problem with the script is an over-reliance on cliched psychoanalytic conversation (debating the morals of killing indiscriminately for instance), Vincent's veiled threats and Max's attempts to keep level-headed were engaging enough without them trying to "understand" each other - Vincent's dangerous, we get it! The film works as a solid and effective thriller right up until the final act. Here it resorts to a succession of increasingly silly set pieces further undermined by lack of attention to detail (what does and doesn't go off in a power cut for instance). Perhaps Mann would have been better off wrapping things up thirty minutes earlier, ending on a high with the truly exhilarating nightclub set piece. Despite its flaws, in the end Collateral is a pleasant diversion - it's perhaps not as clever as it thinks it's being, but as entertainment it dazzles.… Expand
1 of 4 users found this helpful13
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8
hoops2448Oct 15, 2011
Collateral is one of those films that tries to be brilliant (and comes pretty close too) but ends up shooting itself in the foot. The film tells the story of Max (Jamie Foxx) an LA cab driver who unfortunately picks up Vincent (Tom Cruise)Collateral is one of those films that tries to be brilliant (and comes pretty close too) but ends up shooting itself in the foot. The film tells the story of Max (Jamie Foxx) an LA cab driver who unfortunately picks up Vincent (Tom Cruise) and agrees to take him around LA all night. Vincent has 5 stops but Max soon discovers that at every stop Vincent is killing people. This starts a cat and mouse series of events all in the space of one cab as Max continues to drive Vincent around. The concept is a good one and its handled by director Michael Mann with his signature over the top action but its also very subdued and allows the actors to add certain elements to their characters that a popcorn action film would not. In fact Tom Cruise has one of his best performances as Vincent, a very intelligent and sadistic portrayal of someone we really should hate but through his actions we end up not being able to look away. The reason that Collateral narrowly misses brilliance is that Mann seems to lose focus at the end of the film with everything that made Collateral great (the confined space, the tense conversation and the occasional dead body) disappearing in favour of a, simply put, stupid ending which employs the cliched Hollywood ending with a big chase but it does it with so little care for specifics (unlike the rest of the film) that it just seemed incredibly rushed and as if no effort was put in at all. Collateral has all the hallmarks of a brilliant film but thanks to the ending it feels like a summer popcorn flick with no heart. My advice, turn it off at the car crash (you'll know which one) and imagine an ending that doesn't make you want to shout at the screen.… Expand
1 of 4 users found this helpful13
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7
SpangleJun 3, 2014
Overall, Collateral is a pretty good film. The visuals are outstanding and really make this film a gorgeous watch. Tom Cruise is also killer (heh) in his role as a hitman. He gets a bad rap due to his personal beliefs, but the man can reallyOverall, Collateral is a pretty good film. The visuals are outstanding and really make this film a gorgeous watch. Tom Cruise is also killer (heh) in his role as a hitman. He gets a bad rap due to his personal beliefs, but the man can really act. Jamie Foxx also does well as the cab driver and Mark Ruffalo makes a solid supporting appearance in this one as well. The thrills are also certainly there and, though implausible at times, they are most plentiful at the end of the film, though, really, you could be on the edge of your seat for much of this one. Overall, however, I cannot help but feel like this one was nothing but pretty good. Michael Mann's direction is great as always here, but this one never really "reaches for the stars", rather it is content to just be a relatively straightforward and entertaining movie. Now, there is nothing wrong with that, but it certainly would have been nice to see that extra little bit given. Without it, it honestly feels like something is missing from this one.… Expand
1 of 4 users found this helpful13
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10
theirrelephantsFeb 8, 2023
One of Cruise and Foxx's best movies.

Fast paced action, brilliant dialogue, satisfying ending. It all comes together perfectly.
1 of 4 users found this helpful13
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7
Nesbitt10Jul 8, 2013
“Collateral” isn't a terribly original motion picture. However, it’s the strength of the lead performances and the stylish direction of Michael Mann that obscures the weaknesses in plotting and credibility. For the most part “Collateral”“Collateral” isn't a terribly original motion picture. However, it’s the strength of the lead performances and the stylish direction of Michael Mann that obscures the weaknesses in plotting and credibility. For the most part “Collateral” remains a sharply taut thriller but ever so gradually towards the end it tests our plausibility nerves. The movie never fails, but it never really deepens either. The story line never deviates from going somewhere unexpected, but at least it’s always satisfying.

Los Angeles cab driver Max Durocher (Foxx) lives an incredibly mundane life. He drives a cab day in and day out and has for the last twelve years. His only escape from reality is a photo of a tropical island and the fact that he wants to start his own limo company. All that changes when a government investigative attorney named Annie Ferrell (Jada P. Smith) gets in his cab from the airport. She's wound tight, getting ready for a big case the next morning, but he charms her into talking and makes a favorable impression. Immediately after dropping Annie off downtown, he picks up a fare that is known only by his first name Vincent (Cruise). Vincent offers Max a deal he can't refuse $700 for making five stops, then getting him to the airport for his flight out of LA. As the L.A.P.D. and F.B.I. begin to put the pieces together, they race to intercept the two of them. Max and Vincent's survival becomes dependent on each other, in ways neither would have imagined.

The survival-of-the-fittest, do-or-die theme eventually becomes rather one note. The amusing, exceptional first half of the film is undermined when the story races towards a prevailing, mechanical conclusion. Acting and atmosphere define the film, but there are times when style can become substance, and this is one of these instances. The performances by Cruise and Foxx are the highlights, and Mann's direction guarantees that any chance of boredom or disinterest will not materialize.… Expand
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5
HotelCentralJan 17, 2019
Good acting, ridiculous story. The premise of the film is so far beyond absurd it made me laugh aloud. I watched 50 minutes and couldn't stand no more. Avast, me hearties! Arrrrr!!
0 of 9 users found this helpful09
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6
amheretojudgeJan 16, 2018
this ain't any of your business..

Collateral

With an interesting premise, highly packed content and a big star cast it starts off light and easy but doesn't hold enough grip to hold the audience.
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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6
FilipeNetoAug 23, 2018
This film is a very competent thriller where an ordinary taxi driver ends up involved in a series of crimes, as his nightly passenger turns out to be a professional killer, hired to kill several people in one night. The plot starts from anThis film is a very competent thriller where an ordinary taxi driver ends up involved in a series of crimes, as his nightly passenger turns out to be a professional killer, hired to kill several people in one night. The plot starts from an excellent idea but the unfolding of the film reveals a lot of plot holes. This is its main problem. Gun shots that miss the target in a weird (but convenient) way, astonishing car crashes where no one gets hurt and other unrealistic or convenient situations complete the script's problems. The best in this film are the action scenes, truly capable of making us forget (or forgive) the mistakes I mentioned. The way the characters are presented and developed is also very good. Taxi driver Max is the most blatant example. In the beginning, he was perfectionist, dreamy and shy but he manages to overcome these blockades and face the problem where he was involved. This made him dear to the audience, who cares about his fate.

The work of the actors is very positive. Despite being the most popular name in the cast, Tom Cruise deserves no more applause than Jamie Foxx, who shone in a way that didn't allow Cruise to dominate. In fact, it's unusual to see Cruise, an actor used to histrionic roles, in a character as calm and restrained, but that pleased me a lot. Jada Pinkett Smith plays the lady in distress satisfactorily, but it never ceases to be a cliché. Mark Ruffalo and Javier Bardem are also part of the cast, but the plot doesn't take much of their talent. Cinematography is very good, betting on close-up, aerial or scenes with the camera in motion, which gives greater movement to the film. Good special, visual and sound effects complete the good technical details of a film where only the screenplay is deficient. But event this is going to be a lesser evil if we get carried away by the movie.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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6
BruterakeApr 23, 2022
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Achei o filme meio arrastado, principalmente na parte da balado com os japonêses e pro arco final. Cara e teve o problema da cena do hospital que não tem motivo plausível pra ele não ter gritado por ajuda sabendo que ele n ia matar todo mundo dentro de um hospital, mas enfim. Muito legal a sequência final de fuga tirando aquele final criminoso do Max conseguindo matar o Vincent nada haver KKKKKKKKK. Sobre os diálogos eu queria falar que eu sabia onde deveria chegar e eu adorei quando o Vincent fala que ele é alguém que só fica pensando em fazer e não age não liga pra mulher não começa o negócio, mas isso faz o Max instantaneamente virar outra pessoa faz ele agir achei forçado mas ok de resto as falas não achei muito bom não é um filme ok no geral.… Expand
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9
BlancoA.Aug 5, 2004
I was a huge fan of Mann's short-lived television show "Robbery Homicide Division" which was also set in Los Angeles. There's something about Mann & the city of L.A. -- he captures its essence like nobody else in recent memory -- I was a huge fan of Mann's short-lived television show "Robbery Homicide Division" which was also set in Los Angeles. There's something about Mann & the city of L.A. -- he captures its essence like nobody else in recent memory -- maybe since "Chinatown". This is the film that makes Jamie Foxx a legitimate star. His performance is subtle yet powerful. (And, incidentally, Jada Smith and Mark Ruffalo are wonderful in smaller roles - both of which feel gritty and authentic.) You come to expect a lot from Tom Cruise, and he delivers in an unexpected way in Collateral. No character in this film is stock, and everybody keeps you guessing. Sure, there's a typical Robbery-Homicide, Homicide: LOTS - style of plot, but the plot is unimportant. It's the exchange between the righteous cab driver and the morally bankrupt hitman who immediately learns to appreciate the discipline and guiding principles the cab driver lives by. I also have to say that the music choices in the film are spot on. Go see this and enjoy.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
Myles#13Jul 2, 2006
An average script with super acting and first class directing by Michael 'Still The' Mann.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
LouisH.Aug 27, 2005
I really loved this movie and it is a true rare thriller, Jamie Foxx was great and surely shocked everybody with his performence.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
RDalviApr 11, 2006
Drags in the beginning and in parts. But superb performances and a thrilling climax salvage it. Also, Cruise and Foxx's interactions are worth seeing.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JamesMDec 11, 2005
Forget what you think: this is so much more than a buddy action/thriller. This is an absolute masterpiece.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JamesApr 29, 2006
A masterpeice one of the best films of 04. One of tom cruise's best performeces also I was shocked at jamie foxxes performance.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
ChristopherP.Feb 23, 2008
I love this movie. What is most appealing about it is the suspense, pacing, and overall style. Vincent (Tom Cruise) is the epitome of a cool-headed, deliberate and heartless professional killer. Attractive of his role is the depth of his I love this movie. What is most appealing about it is the suspense, pacing, and overall style. Vincent (Tom Cruise) is the epitome of a cool-headed, deliberate and heartless professional killer. Attractive of his role is the depth of his character. Often he'll respond to Max's (Jamie Foxx) obvious signs of distress and anxiety with a psychological and philosophical response meant to calm him, at one point lecturing to him the concept of adaptation.. It really separates him from the typical hit man in many movies, and it's very entertaining to watch. Jamie Foxx does an intense performance, portraying well Max's coping and dealing with his predicament, and he develops as a character as he faces more severe stress, following the theme of "adaptation" that Vincent mentions early in the movie. Side characters such as Fanning (Mark Ruffalo) add to the depth of the story well by giving a different perspective. During the twist near the end of the movie involving Vincent and Fanning, Vincent's nihilistic philosophies are highlighted. I've heard a lot of complaints regarding the unrealism of the ending, but I didn't have too much of a problem with it. I mean, Vincent was shot in the face beforehand, so that may have been a bit disorienting. With regards to that, I thought it closed very well and had a well-directed final few moments that kept me on the edge of my seat. It's overall an exceptionally entertaining film to watch, with quick pacing, sharp dialogue, intense performances, and consistently evolving characters.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JackBFeb 14, 2009
Dont listen to Chad (SPOILER), i think in just about any circumstance, one person could kill another if they had a gun and someone else didnt! Been watching too many movies chad!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
akshatmahajanAug 12, 2021
Collateral is a good action thriller movie which keeps you bounded till the climax. Movie's plot was good. Story's execution, performances by Tom Cruise and Jamie Foxx, environment creation; all these things contributed in making this movieCollateral is a good action thriller movie which keeps you bounded till the climax. Movie's plot was good. Story's execution, performances by Tom Cruise and Jamie Foxx, environment creation; all these things contributed in making this movie impactful. Overall, a good movie which gives you taste of suspense, drama, action and thriller.… Expand
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7
NickTheCritickAug 21, 2022
This movie has an interesting first half but in the second half everything is reduced to "this is my job". No characters exploration, too many words and self indulgent dialogues for nothing. Anyway though this movie doesn't work as as aThis movie has an interesting first half but in the second half everything is reduced to "this is my job". No characters exploration, too many words and self indulgent dialogues for nothing. Anyway though this movie doesn't work as as a drama the action is great and it totally works as a pure Hollywood action movie. You can see the masterclass of Mann here when action explodes.… Expand
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8
liamexeSep 6, 2022
Collateral is an excellent Neo-Noir movie overall. As he did with past movies, Heat being the most notable one, director Michael Mann clearly displays his talents in this genre. I think the script was brilliantly written, and Tom Cruise andCollateral is an excellent Neo-Noir movie overall. As he did with past movies, Heat being the most notable one, director Michael Mann clearly displays his talents in this genre. I think the script was brilliantly written, and Tom Cruise and Jamie Foxx both gave excellent performances that really brought it to life. Since Foxx is one of my favourite actors, you can almost always count on a fantastic performance from him. Cruise is the same. Although I felt that the movie dragged in places, which kept it from being perfect, it is still a classic Neo-Noir movie that everyone should watch. Treat yourself now!… Expand
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10
Hossein_ShJun 4, 2023
One of the best and the greatest movies that I have seen. if someone says describe it I say one word, masterpiece.
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