Crash

9

DanC.Jun 18, 2005

This is a fantastic, satisfying, challenging film for people who like character and dialogue over car chases and shoot outs. I was deeply moved several times, without ever feeling manipulated. Don Cheadle is one of the finest actors in film This is a fantastic, satisfying, challenging film for people who like character and dialogue over car chases and shoot outs. I was deeply moved several times, without ever feeling manipulated. Don Cheadle is one of the finest actors in film today and shows it here. Matt Dillon is superb as a bad guy whose badness is explained, if not justified. I was transported and enthralled by this film. A real achievement.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

BradAJul 11, 2005

Very thought provoking movie that demonstrates how distrusting and misinformed people can be about others from differing ethnic backgrounds. It still shows there is a great ethnic divide in this country.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

MorningtonOct 23, 2010

Paul Haggis made this picture with a great passion flowing in his veins, fashioning honest, smart and true characters out of nothing, while winding them together in a plot that ennobles the cinema.

4 of 5 users found this helpful41

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9

Compi24May 27, 2013

With "Crash" a beautifully fable-like story is executed with some heavy-handed thematics, but the film is still unquestionably top shelf on a technical and performance-centric level.

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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9

bfoore90Apr 8, 2019

Crash was and still is an incredible movie in every sense of the word. Its still a very relevant picture now in 2019 as it was in 2005. It's a very unsettling film, touching on subjects such as racism, healthcare, police violence and gunCrash was and still is an incredible movie in every sense of the word. Its still a very relevant picture now in 2019 as it was in 2005. It's a very unsettling film, touching on subjects such as racism, healthcare, police violence and gun violence, stuff that is still very relevant in today's society. It's a carefully woven plot, with each deeply flawed character connecting with eachother in some form or another. I can't say enough about this film, it caught me on one of the first times I seen it. Crash is a brutally honest and exceptional film… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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9

russiangamerMay 20, 2017

Куча историй разных слоёв общества, вроде бы такая подача и в год выхода фильма была не нова, но даже сейчас всё действо смотрится на одном дыхании. Но, всё же, я в тот год отдал бы оскар "Горбатой горе", но это уже личное предпочтение.
Итог:Куча историй разных слоёв общества, вроде бы такая подача и в год выхода фильма была не нова, но даже сейчас всё действо смотрится на одном дыхании. Но, всё же, я в тот год отдал бы оскар "Горбатой горе", но это уже личное предпочтение.
Итог: Замечательный фильм, держит в напряжении и поднимает некоторые важные вопросы.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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9

Libation70Aug 2, 2021

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1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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9

AmateurfilmVWRAug 17, 2022

I feel like this film gets the hate it receives simply because it got the Best Picture nod over Brokeback Mountain. While Brokeback was most certainly deserving of the praise it received, to me it doesnt quite carry the weight that Crash didI feel like this film gets the hate it receives simply because it got the Best Picture nod over Brokeback Mountain. While Brokeback was most certainly deserving of the praise it received, to me it doesnt quite carry the weight that Crash did and still does.

Here in 2022, it touches on alot of still relevant topics like Healthcare, affirmative action, religion, discrimination, ignorance, ect. While it is extremely heavy handed in its approach, the way the storylines weave together across the post 9/11 LA backdrop is extremely well done. Again, its take on post 9/11 social commentary is a bit on the nose but it shows that no matter how hard we try, we all suffer from the same curses like ignorance and racism and sometimes even the worst kinds of people can have a moment of redemption. It shows the ugly side of everyone, further proof that we have a long way to go as a people.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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8

SusanM.May 10, 2005

I really enjoyed this movie, there is really no beginning, middle and end, it's more like you get a brief glimpse into the lives of so many people who, on the outside, appear to be very different, but inside they are all struggling with I really enjoyed this movie, there is really no beginning, middle and end, it's more like you get a brief glimpse into the lives of so many people who, on the outside, appear to be very different, but inside they are all struggling with the same issues. Just to be fair, I will say that my boyfriend thought it sucked. Incidentally, he thinks 'Sniper 3' was a great movie.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

DavidMMay 25, 2005

Crash is a powerful, emotionally wrenching film. It's about how people can be racist without realizing it, or even wanting to, because it has become a part of society. "Duh..." you say? "Why make an ugly movie about racism?" You have Crash is a powerful, emotionally wrenching film. It's about how people can be racist without realizing it, or even wanting to, because it has become a part of society. "Duh..." you say? "Why make an ugly movie about racism?" You have just answered your own question--because we gloss over racism nowadays. Instead of celebrating our differences as diversity, we use them to keep anyone "not of our kind" at arm's length. All of the characters in this movie are flawed human beings, with their own backgrounds, motivations and fears. We see them "crash" into each other, unaware (or unwilling to be aware) of how we are all connected as a society. The behavior and actions of each character has far-reaching effects into the lives of the other characters who then are in a position to effect them back. Ultimately these are anti-heroes to begin with, and we see the havok their actions create, leading downward and downward as recriminations and retaliations pile up. Although this is a dark and depressing film, we do catch glimpses that some of these people are realizing the effects their prejudice is having on themselves and the people around them. It's not a total redemption--the final scene brings the story full circle--but ultimately the movie has shown us that racism is bitterly self-consuming and self-defeating, but there *is* turning back.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

NickD.May 31, 2005

Moving and poignant, but overrated. It seems to me that this movie is getting so much hype because it's the first good movie to come out this year. Also, within 15 minutes, I found myself thinking the following - A LOT: "OK, I get it, Moving and poignant, but overrated. It seems to me that this movie is getting so much hype because it's the first good movie to come out this year. Also, within 15 minutes, I found myself thinking the following - A LOT: "OK, I get it, you're racist." That said, my friends and I talked about it for hours afterwards. Great acting, great dialogue, great drama. I just wanted to be shocked, I guess.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

EveCJun 21, 2005

About misconception, fear and miscomunication between us, humain beings... A stunning and moving film If only it could open our eyes, about the uselessness of guns and much more... a beautiful message.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

BitBurnMay 14, 2005

At last, a movie with no heroes and no bad guys. Only proves that we all can be a bit of both.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

dougb.May 23, 2005

A tad bleak, but the first intelligent movie I have seen this year, with believable dialogue and some riveting scenes. Would have warranted a 9 but for the, um, excessive coincidences.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

VinceH.May 25, 2005

Crash is certainly more intelligent and has much more to say about post-millenium life in America than any American movie since "The 25th Hour", and I would also argue that this is the best movies about racial tension in L.A that I've Crash is certainly more intelligent and has much more to say about post-millenium life in America than any American movie since "The 25th Hour", and I would also argue that this is the best movies about racial tension in L.A that I've seen (many people in other cities may not relate to the class/race differentiation, which makes this at heart a regional film). The acting is across the board fantastic (esp. Terrence Howard (Oscar-worthy), Michael Pena, Thandie Newton, and Matt Dillon). Haggis is clearly a sensitive director of actors and the way he is able to maintain the tension and drama throughout the film shows him to be a natural-born storyteller. My only problem with the film is pretty much the same as what Michael Atkinson of the Voice said - everyone seems to have some sort of "rap" or "spew" that they openly talk about in public, which is just very hard to believe. But overall there are moments in this film of such truth and such directness that it is the equivalent of a punch to the gut.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

JulienC.Jun 12, 2005

This is a great movie, on of those that let you thinking during the credits. you have to go see it.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

GaryJun 24, 2005

Surreal in a Magnolias sort of way. A clever commentary on all the hate in the world.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

gemmaAug 13, 2005

I watched this movie last night and i thought it was really good,its well worth watching but the ending is abit dsappointing.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

grandpajoe6191Sep 27, 2011

"Crash", a racial movie directed by the famous Paul Haggis, is a masterpiece. With a powerhouse cast with a good lead from the director, the movie starts with pain and anger and triumphantly ends with love and forgiveness. It surely is one of"Crash", a racial movie directed by the famous Paul Haggis, is a masterpiece. With a powerhouse cast with a good lead from the director, the movie starts with pain and anger and triumphantly ends with love and forgiveness. It surely is one of the greatest movies i've seen currently these days.… Expand

6 of 11 users found this helpful65

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8

StaticSpineMar 28, 2014

This movie doesn't have a general plot, instead it has a lot of entwining sub-plots connecting through many characters, who meet each other in different circumstances. The central theme of all the sub-stories is racial prejudices in modernThis movie doesn't have a general plot, instead it has a lot of entwining sub-plots connecting through many characters, who meet each other in different circumstances. The central theme of all the sub-stories is racial prejudices in modern USA society. The whole movie concept reminds me of Magnolia. Overall, the movie is too pretentious at times, but still good.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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8

ExKingApr 25, 2013

crash is an amazing movie amazing writing spectacular screenplay and most off all an astonishing performances by everyone i love the story behind it and one of my all time favorite movies hell i found Sandra Bullock great and i don't evencrash is an amazing movie amazing writing spectacular screenplay and most off all an astonishing performances by everyone i love the story behind it and one of my all time favorite movies hell i found Sandra Bullock great and i don't even like her that shows how the director can control a movie acting quality from zero to perfect level.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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8

CinemaphileJul 29, 2016

Crash is a film that is as relevant now as it is as it was twelve years ago. Though the premise is pure contrivance, it's a epic one which begs for suspended disbelief. Paul Haggis cleverly paints stereotypical portraits of this film'sCrash is a film that is as relevant now as it is as it was twelve years ago. Though the premise is pure contrivance, it's a epic one which begs for suspended disbelief. Paul Haggis cleverly paints stereotypical portraits of this film's multiple protagonists using the prejudices and preconceptions of those who surround them, only to then turn the audience into confidants, revealing key details of the protagonists' lives unknown to those in the story. Those intimate details and the "seemingly" random, sometimes violent interactions of the main players, oddly draw the audience in closer, created a sense of connectedness and community where one doesn't appear to exist.

Crash is a cautiously optimistic film and an uplifting film without the traditional high fructose Hollywood corn syrup. Yes, there are a few implausible moments, but they aren't Indiana Jones Nuke The Fridge moments, they are purposeful and meaningful.

Catch it if you haven't, it might change your karma, pun intended.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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8

Dragonfly44Oct 23, 2020

Its hard to describe this movie and its certainly very controversial, but I enjoyed the experience. 83/100

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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8

MarvelJoeMar 12, 2018

Rascally stereotype and changed of heart. There is scenes where it gets a bit emotional but it was just a bit of a tease for the other characters seeing how reality the world is now, showing us we can make a change.

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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8

nicpameMar 18, 2022

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. داستان خیلیی قوی و جذابی داره
در بعضی نقاط فیلم،خیلی فضای متاثر کننده ای ایجاد میکنه
چند سناریوی ظاهرا بیربط بهم که جایی تقاطع پیدا میکنن درون مایه ی تبعیض نژادی داره و میشه گفت بیطرفانه و واقع بینانه به مقوله پرداخته
بطور کلی فیلم انسانی خیلی خوبیه
این بار دومه که میبنمش و چیزی از جذابیتش کم نشده… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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7

ChrisGJun 1, 2005

Two excellent scenes made the movie worth the price of admission. The snow at the end and the frogs in magnolia made me laugh at loud in the theatre.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

7

JamesC.May 15, 2005

A movie worth seeing for the acting of Thandie Newton and Matt Dillon. The movie crashed for me 90 minutes into the film where there is an icident with a gun and a girl. Haggis choked big time in this scene. After that, it seems he lost his A movie worth seeing for the acting of Thandie Newton and Matt Dillon. The movie crashed for me 90 minutes into the film where there is an icident with a gun and a girl. Haggis choked big time in this scene. After that, it seems he lost his confidence in what he wanted to say. If he spent the time going deeper into issue of race it would have been a better film. Those giving 0 are being unfair. That should be reserved for films like, Punch Drunk Love, I heart Huckabees, and the truly awful , Garden State, a film that makes one never want to see another film again!… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

7

DanB.May 29, 2005

What it lacks in subtlety it compensates for with heart. Also, is Don Cheadle the man? I think Don Cheadle's the man. I just really randomly seem to like anything Don Cheadle is in. Bravo for Don Cheadle.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

7

MarcK.Jun 12, 2005

I guess many found similarites to this movie and "Magnolia," but I didn't. I see the similarity to "Grand Canyon," and I'll throw in another film that this reminded me of: "13 Conversations About One Thing." The Positives: I guess many found similarites to this movie and "Magnolia," but I didn't. I see the similarity to "Grand Canyon," and I'll throw in another film that this reminded me of: "13 Conversations About One Thing." The Positives: Tremendous performances by all. Such interesting stories that it's one of the few films I think I've ever seen that I wished could have went on for another half hour or so. The Big Negative:: Overplaying the "racism is a part of our society" angle. Definitely a white liberal's version of race in America, with tinges of Spike Lee thrown in. Had "the race card" been handled with a bit more subtley, I would probably have thought this one of the best films of the year. Instead, it's a big disappointment on what could have been.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

7

GarethC.Aug 16, 2005

A good drama, but not great. Definitely worth a watch, but could wait for dvd. Quite a good script - refreshing change from the big CG focused blockbusters - but too contrived. I mostly enjoyed it, but found some of the contrived scenes too A good drama, but not great. Definitely worth a watch, but could wait for dvd. Quite a good script - refreshing change from the big CG focused blockbusters - but too contrived. I mostly enjoyed it, but found some of the contrived scenes too much. Some people will be insulted or offended.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

7

J-ShapAug 25, 2011

Crash is a surprisingly intelligent and powerful drama at its core, but is ultimately bogged down by it's "message movie" triteness. It's the kind of movie Stanley Kramer would have made back in the 1960's.

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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7

beingryanjudeAug 25, 2014

A dark depiction of tense clashes of culture throughout Los Angeles on any given night. Crash is notable in connecting each of its over-populated cast.

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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7

csw12Apr 1, 2015

Crash succeeds with outstanding acting and some very compelling scenes but at times seems continue to press a point that was made within the first 15 minutes. In the end, Crash will keep you interested all the way through.

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

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7

SpangleNov 6, 2013

Really good film that delves into the issue of racism from multiple perspectives, yet tells the same story; we all carry some kind of prejudice with us each and every day and these prejudices can have far reaching effects. Overall a reallyReally good film that delves into the issue of racism from multiple perspectives, yet tells the same story; we all carry some kind of prejudice with us each and every day and these prejudices can have far reaching effects. Overall a really unsettling film. Great cast with great direction from Paul Haggis. Really well done as a whole.… Expand

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

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7

TrilobiteGJul 14, 2016

Crash leaves some things unsolved, perhaps some things are missing which needed to be added. But it delivers a harsh yet truthful message on racism and other hints of issues in the U.S.A such as healthcare and firearms policies. A relativelyCrash leaves some things unsolved, perhaps some things are missing which needed to be added. But it delivers a harsh yet truthful message on racism and other hints of issues in the U.S.A such as healthcare and firearms policies. A relatively heart-pounding feat which gets better as it progresses.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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7

KayakMar 4, 2014

While I did find the message incredibly overbearing and overexaggerated, especially at the beginning, the character and plot development is so touching and poignant in places that it nearly nullifies my earlier concerns. Great performancesWhile I did find the message incredibly overbearing and overexaggerated, especially at the beginning, the character and plot development is so touching and poignant in places that it nearly nullifies my earlier concerns. Great performances from the majority of the cast and overall a pretty solid film in my view.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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7

amheretojudgeApr 13, 2018

do i look like i wanna be on discovery channel..

Crash It is admirable to pull off a feature with no definite characterization bit the script itself that just depicts few incidents and still somehow manages to connect with the audience.do i look like i wanna be on discovery channel..

Crash

It is admirable to pull off a feature with no definite characterization bit the script itself that just depicts few incidents and still somehow manages to connect with the audience. Paul Haggis; the co-writer and director, is convincingly good in his job on executing the high pitched dramatic sequences. On performance level, there isn't much range provided to the actors to factor in but Don Cheadle and Michael Pena are still brilliant in it. Crash is a gripping tale told over multiple incidents that speaks louder on terms of character's perspective but as soon as one cracks the equation, the sub-plots goes repetitive and mundane.… Expand

0 of 6 users found this helpful06

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7

FilipeNetoOct 9, 2020

This film is quite interesting for several reasons, and I can understand why it won the Oscar for "Best Film" in 2006: its a film that combines several stories around a theme that was relevant that year: racism and prejudice. At that time,This film is quite interesting for several reasons, and I can understand why it won the Oscar for "Best Film" in 2006: its a film that combines several stories around a theme that was relevant that year: racism and prejudice. At that time, many people thought that it won this award so that it wouldn't end up in more "gay friendly" films ("Capote" and "Brokeback Mountain", also nominated), but I think that's an unfair idea. "Crash" is a film with more merit than it looks, although it went unnoticed through the theaters then.

The script joins a series of isolated stories and sub-plots around a single theme: prejudice, the way we judge someone by their color, ethnicity or social origin. In the film, this is the great "leitmotiv" that unites all the stories, making the plot very difficult to describe succinctly. The characters do not know each other, they are not connected, but they get to know each other through casual situations, which could happen to ourselves: going to a store, repairing a lock, stealing a car, a routine police stop. Its necessary to pay attention, and even so I guarantee that many intentional details will go unnoticed - I had to see the film three times to be able to evaluate it fairly, and to write this review cost me a few hours of reading too.

Another important detail is the extreme quality of the dialogues. There is no theatricality or politically correct: a negro is a negro. The language is crude, although it does not use profanity or slang. The way it affects the characters is genuine and we can put ourselves in their shoes. About this, its a film that can be quite hard to endure, especially for those who have been through situations of prejudice. Of course, its an admittedly militant film with some moralizing edge, given that it tries to convey an anti-racist message and defend this, but the cinema is full of militant films and I think this will only displease seriously those who oppose that more fiercely. Personally, I handled it very well.

Although it has a carefully selected cast, with some big names, we cannot say that there is a protagonist. Everyone is a protagonist in the story that concerns them. Personally, I liked the performance of Matt Dillon and Ryan Phillippe in the role of two very different policeman; Don Cheadle wears the skin of an investigator; Sandra Bullock and Brendan Fraser gave us characters from the white elite; Thandie Newton and Terrence Howard were also excellent in the role of rich and successful black people; Larenz Tate and Ludacris are good at the two outcasts; the film also features the excellent performances of Michael Peña, Bahar Soomekh, Loretta Devine, Jennifer Esposito, Howard Fong and Shaun Toub. Of course, given the theme, many of the characters - not to say almost all - will have attitudes that will displease us, but they were thought like that.

Technically, the film has one of the best editing works I've seen in a long time: despite the intricate plot and mix of stories, everything is logical and in the right place, justifying the Oscar for Best Editing that it also received. The film runs at a very pleasant pace too, without wasting time. But its basically just that! The film conveys the feeling of having been thought for TV and is marked by uninteresting technical elements: a regular cinematography, sets and costumes and an almost atonal soundtrack. Technically, its a film that I would compare to food without salt: it has no flavor.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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7

TheEventsOf1989Jan 10, 2020

"Crash" utilizes a wheel story format pretty well, diving deep into social-politics, and giving depth to all its characters. The film thrives on twisting the stereotypes around, allot of characters end up being the opposite of what you are"Crash" utilizes a wheel story format pretty well, diving deep into social-politics, and giving depth to all its characters. The film thrives on twisting the stereotypes around, allot of characters end up being the opposite of what you are meant to think they are. The visuals are creditable as well.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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6

MikeOMay 26, 2005

Think "Magnolia" remade as a message movie. Great acting, stunning coincidences, but ultimately unconvincing. Go see it anyways just so you can have a discussion on race with your friends.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

6

JimS.May 11, 2005

What thoughts were provoked? Did people honestly think different about race relations after seeing this movie? A lot of surface and knee-jerk feelings were touched, but nothing really made an impact on me. Good casting, though.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

6

JoeA.May 22, 2005

I wanted to like this movie more, but couldn't get myself to. The best likeness I can give is opening up a fortune cookie with no fortune inside. Makes 'ya feel like you've been left high n' dry.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

6

carolinee.May 23, 2005

A story with ambition & strong acting is marred by implausible behavior on the part of the film's characters, windy speechmaking, & ham-handed points about human nature. A disappointment.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

6

SeanC.May 25, 2005

Good messages and ideas but it tends to lack the emotions that tugged my heart in the way-too-similar Magnolia.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

6

lehugginAug 15, 2019

This movie is HEAVY, and not exactly in a good way. It showcases the worst in human nature - fear & paranoia, prejudice & blatant bigotry, numbing & addiction, victim blaming, hatred & rampant disconnection. And that is pretty much the point.This movie is HEAVY, and not exactly in a good way. It showcases the worst in human nature - fear & paranoia, prejudice & blatant bigotry, numbing & addiction, victim blaming, hatred & rampant disconnection. And that is pretty much the point. That we should expect the worst from each other, because we always get the worst. No redemption arcs, no happy endings, no learning from our mistakes. Just rock bottoms and continual crashing into each other, with no potential for healing. Ouch.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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5

GraemeHigginsonJul 6, 2012

"Crash" by Paul Haggis is a film with a terrible sense of scope and content. It

1 of 5 users found this helpful14

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4

MikeEAug 19, 2005

Don't believe the hype. Too many contrived, over the top storylines that end up fitting together like a mismatched puzzle. If you enjoy film, you've already seen this movie, and you've seen it executed flawlessly (Magnolia, Don't believe the hype. Too many contrived, over the top storylines that end up fitting together like a mismatched puzzle. If you enjoy film, you've already seen this movie, and you've seen it executed flawlessly (Magnolia, Traffic, 13 Conversations About One Thing come to mind). All this collective human tragedy, frustration and misery comes off flat, and with this cast, it's a shame. I think this quote summarizes it, … Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

4

garrettp.May 28, 2005

All I can say is it's amazing how people can come away wtih such different impressions fo the same movie. The acting was top-notch, and that's about the extent of the good part of this contrived wanna-be deep-thinker. The All I can say is it's amazing how people can come away wtih such different impressions fo the same movie. The acting was top-notch, and that's about the extent of the good part of this contrived wanna-be deep-thinker. The unrealistic nature of the scenes and ridiculous coincidences were over-the-top. There were so many technical flaws in the plot that I can't nearly cover them all heren to list them here. Just stupid writing e.g.why would the hitchhiker delay mentioning that he had the budha in his pocket when asked why he was laughing. Please! Maybe I'm too literal, and I'll say right now that I don't like sci-fi at all, (not that this is sci-fi at all, but I just don't suspend disbelief well.) How this could be rated by anyone to be one of the best movies in years is mind-boggling.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

4

hampusforevFeb 23, 2011

I think the negative reviewers are a little harsh, I wouldn't call it racist by any stretch of the imagination. But cliched as all hell? Yeah. This is typical hollywood masquerading, trying to be deep and meaningful. Lacks Robert AltmansI think the negative reviewers are a little harsh, I wouldn't call it racist by any stretch of the imagination. But cliched as all hell? Yeah. This is typical hollywood masquerading, trying to be deep and meaningful. Lacks Robert Altmans subtle weird humanism in Short Cuts. Plagued by white guilt, the movie runs the complicated issue of race through Hollywoods dreaded machinery of doom, leaving just scraps of brilliant acting and dialogue submerged in a mire of annoyingly coincidental plotpoints.… Expand

6 of 12 users found this helpful66

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4

j30Nov 9, 2011

Not a great film. Mediocre at best. Brings up some important points and is powerful in some scenes, but too much filler and way too preachy. Maybe some better actors/actresses would help (Sandra Bullock, Ludacris and Brendan Fraser come on!).Not a great film. Mediocre at best. Brings up some important points and is powerful in some scenes, but too much filler and way too preachy. Maybe some better actors/actresses would help (Sandra Bullock, Ludacris and Brendan Fraser come on!). Micheal Pena is the soul of the movie and carries the weight of the film. I'm sorry, Brokeback was a better film and even Munich was better.… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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4

sanyrubJan 21, 2013

It´s not the worst film ever. It has certain moments in which it wants to be a great film. There are some good performances. But everything is so contrived, laughable, some scenes made the theater laugh when I saw it back in the day. IfIt´s not the worst film ever. It has certain moments in which it wants to be a great film. There are some good performances. But everything is so contrived, laughable, some scenes made the theater laugh when I saw it back in the day. If there´s a big mistake in the history of the oscar awards it has to be this film winning Best Picture. Clearly a strange fix cos Brokeback Mountain got Best Director few seconds before. I remember all critics in Spain saying "What?" All the other 4 nominees were so above this film, especially Munich and Brokeback mountain
The issues here discussed have been many times addressed before, only that 10 times better. Forgettable film, in fact nobody remembers it now compared to other films from that same year… Expand

2 of 6 users found this helpful24

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4

johnem95Aug 3, 2017

Preachy melodrama without a shred of subtlety that needs a Sarah McLachlan-esque song at the end to hammer its point home. Your 2005 Best Picture winner, ladies and gentlemen.

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3

BobJ.Aug 6, 2005

Bad white man! Bad!!! Caucassian men beware... you will have a finger wagged in your face for two hours. The one lesson we all should walk away from this film with is People ALL suck at one time or another. Gee, I learned that from living Bad white man! Bad!!! Caucassian men beware... you will have a finger wagged in your face for two hours. The one lesson we all should walk away from this film with is People ALL suck at one time or another. Gee, I learned that from living life everyday. Give me something deper and less manipulative. So, I'm supposed to feel bad when a violent criminal meets an accidental fatal wound? A man that has been car jacked is more willing to be shot by the "racist" police rather than give up the criminal that kidnapped him at gunpoint only moments before? I suppose a police officer of a racially diverse background could not be shown as being a bit of a dirt bag? If want to feel bad about yourself, enjoy this film. To be honest... any film that creates this strong a reaction, even negetive, has an inherent artistic value. Save your moeny though, and wait for it to come on IFC.… Expand

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3

bradAug 9, 2005

Too predictable, very contrived and no real panacea to the universal problem of racism is offered in this movie.

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3

MarcusG.Jun 18, 2005

I guess a lot of audiences and critics buy into this film but I sat through a series of flaws bookending one snappy scene featuring Matt Dillon and Thandie Newton in a burning car wreck. You will be forcefed through most of the film - a I guess a lot of audiences and critics buy into this film but I sat through a series of flaws bookending one snappy scene featuring Matt Dillon and Thandie Newton in a burning car wreck. You will be forcefed through most of the film - a stunningly un-Altman-like work though so many observers compare it to Short Cuts. A disheartening reaction all around.… Expand

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3

TomC.Aug 14, 2005

What an overblown, inarticulate, clumsy and depressing film! The strokes are so broad, and most of the set-ups so obvious that even the bits that do work and are affecting are blown out of the water ten seconds later by something so What an overblown, inarticulate, clumsy and depressing film! The strokes are so broad, and most of the set-ups so obvious that even the bits that do work and are affecting are blown out of the water ten seconds later by something so eye-rollingly hideous - a girl is told that she's got her father's invisible shield to protect her against bullets... What happens next? Duh. Some of the stories are incredibly slight and trivial - Sandra Bullock has three conversations and that's her narrative. Other ones are insanely implausible - a TV director whose had two difficult experiences in a day after (presumably) a life of dealing with racial tensions, suddenly goes loopy for no obvious reason. Worst of all is the cynicism here - and this the bit where I really agree with one of the other reviewers here - the whole film operates on the assumption that people aren't good or bad, they're just trying to get through difficult circumstances - and it also operates under the assumption that if depressing and cynical films are 'artful' then REALLY depressing and cynical films must be Leonardo da Vincis. So everyone is corrupt or evil in one way or another - only one character is honourable all the way through, the rest are universally just different shades of self-involved wankery. You come out of the cinema not uplifted by people's struggles or wiser in the race wars, but sickened by your fellow man, disgusted by our whole revolting species. This isn't a tragedy, it's a self-indulgent, wallowing, decadent film that reveals the bankrupcy of the film-maker's spirit - a man who can afford the luxury of an absolute loss of faith and wants to take the whole world down with him. Not very good. I'd go as far as to say that in its representation of humans as universally corrupt, it's very nearly evil.… Expand

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3

MglovesfunMay 19, 2020

While not a complete failure, this movie has a lot of problems. It takes itself very seriously and the characters are unengaging.

The biggest problem is, is it iself borderline racist, and sometimes crosses the line between depicting racistWhile not a complete failure, this movie has a lot of problems. It takes itself very seriously and the characters are unengaging.

The biggest problem is, is it iself borderline racist, and sometimes crosses the line between depicting racist behavior and being racist.

Generally not all that well-received by critics at the time, it was a surprise to say the least when it won the Oscar for Best Picture.… Expand

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2

buzzl.Jun 19, 2005

Let me start by admitting that i walked out after dillon/newton's 2nd encounter, so maybe i missed something pivotal. i just couldn't sit through this frustratingly manipulative, insanely overwrought, false, and downright insipid Let me start by admitting that i walked out after dillon/newton's 2nd encounter, so maybe i missed something pivotal. i just couldn't sit through this frustratingly manipulative, insanely overwrought, false, and downright insipid film. i was really looking forward to this film, especially living and having lived in LA all my life and experienced the racial climate here. this nonsense couldn't be more off base. the way race exhibits itself here in LA is far more subtle, and therefore more interesting and important to explore. this movie trivializes the whole subject. after the first few lines of dialogue spoken by cheadle's character, which i THOUGHT was the film's thesis, i was drawn in. and almost as quickly i was put off. great first 2 minutes though.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful

2

DebraJun 20, 2005

Preposterous and racist film that portrays the worst in people. Avoid.

1 of 1 users found this helpful

2

ThomasR.Apr 29, 2005

Ugh, this is what happens when you take a handful of name actors and don't give them much to work with. The writing is pretty bad and the script takes its message and hits you over the head dozens upon dozens of times, when a more Ugh, this is what happens when you take a handful of name actors and don't give them much to work with. The writing is pretty bad and the script takes its message and hits you over the head dozens upon dozens of times, when a more subtle approach would have worked much better.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful

2

RBerensJun 13, 2005

If you're making a movie that positions itself as "hard-edged realism," it's probably best to avoid an excess of dramatic contrivance and coincidence. I lost count at about 65. This movie just plain sucked.

3 of 5 users found this helpful

2

royalguy07Feb 6, 2023

Is this the most ignorant and poorly written script of all time? Racism is bad but all the negative and **** stereotypes are correct?? Some storylines have absolutely no resolution at all.

Good thing LA is so small or this would of beenIs this the most ignorant and poorly written script of all time? Racism is bad but all the negative and **** stereotypes are correct?? Some storylines have absolutely no resolution at all.

Good thing LA is so small or this would of been completely illogical.

Really a black mark that this won best picture.… Expand

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1

LeroyMay 14, 2005

The acting was superb but the subject matter too awful for words. Does racism exist in America? Absolutely. Does it exist in other parts of the world also? Absolutely. So why show a movie full of sterotype cliches which only promotes more of The acting was superb but the subject matter too awful for words. Does racism exist in America? Absolutely. Does it exist in other parts of the world also? Absolutely. So why show a movie full of sterotype cliches which only promotes more of a racial divide? If I wanted to, I could rip this screenplay to smithereens. For example, do you think the DA would drive an expensive SUV without any markings on the license plate that he was a DA? C'mon let's not be ridiculous. Those of you who have rated this movie a perfect 10 need to reevaluate your thought process. This is a racist movie if I ever saw one by someone who has no clue about what he wrote about. Just awful.… Expand

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0

RASJun 18, 2005

Disgusting all the way around. Don't recommend it to anyone. Typical white mainstream media stereotypes of people of color. Garbage like this causes more problems rather than entertain. Warning to people of color: do not watch this Disgusting all the way around. Don't recommend it to anyone. Typical white mainstream media stereotypes of people of color. Garbage like this causes more problems rather than entertain. Warning to people of color: do not watch this crap. Walked out in the middle of the film.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful

0

GinaK.Jun 1, 2005

Clearly written by a rich white person from Santa Monica who doesn't have a clue about life in the real Los Angeles. This movie makes Grand Canyon look deep. Maudlin manipulative glop.

2 of 3 users found this helpful

0

CarolAnnMay 10, 2005

In a nutshell, this is a very derpressing racist movie demonstrating racial intolerance. It was so depressing that I walked out halfway through this film as did the few other people in the theater. Despite these glowing reviews that seemed In a nutshell, this is a very derpressing racist movie demonstrating racial intolerance. It was so depressing that I walked out halfway through this film as did the few other people in the theater. Despite these glowing reviews that seemed to have loved it, I found it exploitative and very derogatory toward all races. Avoid.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful

0

JaneMay 16, 2005

Awful sterotype racist film turning every race against each other. Very depressing. Well acted but very poorly written as if the writer had no real comprehension of why the races are divided. Could have been so much better if there had been Awful sterotype racist film turning every race against each other. Very depressing. Well acted but very poorly written as if the writer had no real comprehension of why the races are divided. Could have been so much better if there had been some insight or understanding to bring us together. As far as I am concerned a completely failed effort.… Expand

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0

BobMay 21, 2005

Hated it. Walked out of the theater half way through as did the audience. Racist and depressing as all hell.

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0

BrianS.May 12, 2005

The emperor has no clothes on in this film that has wildly divided critics, not to mention audiences. I cannot believe reviewers who thing this is a profound exploration of racism in America. Paul Haggis is a white Spike Lee: neither man The emperor has no clothes on in this film that has wildly divided critics, not to mention audiences. I cannot believe reviewers who thing this is a profound exploration of racism in America. Paul Haggis is a white Spike Lee: neither man should write about what he knows nothing about. The ending of snow falling on Los Angeles was ludicrous -- I guess the frogs (from "Magnolia") were otherwise busy that night.… Expand

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0

ChrisJun 15, 2005

You've gotta be kidding me. How can so many critics be snowed? This is contrived, overwrought hogwash.

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0

kavilionMay 24, 2011

This is the cheesiest, most maudlin self-serving pile of garbage I have ever seen. It was a little hackneyed early, but watchable thanks to decent pace and the occasional laugh. At about the three quarter mark, the cheesefest begins. I haveThis is the cheesiest, most maudlin self-serving pile of garbage I have ever seen. It was a little hackneyed early, but watchable thanks to decent pace and the occasional laugh. At about the three quarter mark, the cheesefest begins. I have never seen a movie so unintentionally funny. The blanks?
The cloak of protection? "My guardian angel?"
Snow in Los Angeles?

Even one of these events would take a movie over the cheese-limit. Did someone actually get paid to write this? Was it someone they pulled out of a high school creative writing class?

Used correctly, coincidence and the crossing of paths of otherwise unrelated storylines adds poignancy to a story. When you do it 600 times, not only does it lose any meaning - it becomes a joke. There's a tiny shred of something important and meaningful in this movie, but it's completely hidden behind horrible writing, bland acting and a mountain of stereotypes. Honestly - there isn't one believable character in the entire thing. Every single person is exactly what you'd expect...or the exact opposite of what you'd expect. No depth. No shades of gray. I hadn't had a laugh this good in a while, until I started reading some of the reviews of this pile of dreck on this site. I actually saw someone use the word "masterpiece." I laughed so hard I think I peed my pants a little. If you think this movie is a 10, please stop posting movie reviews.… Expand

1 of 5 users found this helpful14

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0

quincinemaJan 10, 2023

No on every account. A movie that tries to say everything but accomplishes nothing. It's quirky insight on race relations is downright offensive today. The fact that this won Best Picture is honestly embarrassing. Gross movie.

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Crash

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