The Insider (1999)

Director: Michael Mann
Starring: Al Pacino, Russell Crowe, Christopher Plummer, Diane Venora, Philip Baker Hall

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So Russell Crowe got an Oscar nod for his work in this film, the real stars are Pacino as Lowell Bergman, the man who gets the interviews, and Christopher Plummer whose Mike Wallace is pitch perfect. We all know the story. Crowe's character in the insider of a tobacco company who says on the record that the tobacco companies knew that cigarettes were addictive, and the tobacco companies did everything in their power to prevent this story from getting out. Crowe is certainly no shlub in his role, but he simply cannot compete with Pacino and Plummer. Both play their roles perfectly, and together they are a powerhouse on the screen. The cinematography is something very familiar for those who've seen other Mann works. One plane of focus, and the lights in the background become an abstract palette against which the actors' heads are composed in close-up. The Insider also got an Oscar nod for said cinematography. The Insider--undeservedly so--received no Oscar wins for its behind-the-scenes story about politics, law, and the first amendment. The story is intense, suspenseful and intriguing. If you haven't watched it already (and I may be the only person on Earth to not have seen this one until now) take a look at it. It's a testament to Pacino's acting ability that is still alive and thriving (those interested should take a look at July 2004's issue of the UK's Empire magazine for their "Gods Among Us" series in which Pacino is featured). Crowe may have gotten the nod, but the entire film is brilliantly acted, written, directed and shot. You owe it to yourself both if you're a Michael Mann fan and/or if you plan on seeing Mann's new film Collateral coming out in August.

July 10
computer, early morning

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