For the first time since Pulp Fiction the great duo of John Travolta and Samuel L. Jackson are an on-screen force of nature in the action thriller Basic. Veteran action director John Mctiernan (Die Hard, Predator) can add another notch in his belt and another thrilling and enjoyable film to his resume.
Travolta and Jackson are exactly as one would expect them, and are everything they should be. Travolta seems familiar in this role, closely resembling the one from The General’s Daughter, not that it’s any less appropriate or satisfying. His masculinity and likeability are on full display as he weaves his way through a series twists and turns that really kept us guessing. Jackson, playing the fierce and excessively belligerent drill instructor, looks as though he is right at home calling people names that the in no way deserve. We love Mr. Jackson.
The supporting cast is well rounded and includes Connie Nielsen of Gladiator, Harry Connick Jr., Giovani Ribisi, and Taye Diggs. Each character is well rounded and has a unique tale to tell, literally. The story plays much like a courtroom drama, with multiple parties telling their side of the story, each with flashback scenes to dilute the truth.
With great action, mystery, courtroom elements, and more twists than a titanium drill bit, Basic combines a dream team of cast and filmmaker to create on of the best and smartest action films in recent memory.
Popularity: 15% [?]
Sun, Dec 30, 2007
DVD