“Collateral” is a gripping thriller directed by Michael Mann, taking place over the course of one intense night in Los Angeles. The film follows a cab driver, Max Durocher (played by Jamie Foxx), whose life takes a harrowing turn when he unknowingly picks up a professional hitman named Vincent (portrayed by Tom Cruise).
Max, an affable and hardworking taxi driver dreaming of owning his own limousine company, starts his shift like any other night. However, his routine takes a dangerous turn when Vincent enters his cab with a seemingly simple proposition: offering a considerable sum of money for a series of brief stops throughout the city.
As the night progresses, Max discovers that Vincent is not a regular passenger but a meticulous and ruthless contract killer on a mission to eliminate five targets. Initially held at gunpoint, Max becomes an unwilling accomplice in Vincent’s deadly plan.
The tension escalates as Max finds himself thrust into a nightmarish scenario, forced to navigate the streets of Los Angeles while trying to thwart Vincent’s murderous intentions. Amidst the chaos, Max desperately attempts to alert the authorities and save the intended targets, including Annie (portrayed by Jada Pinkett Smith), a prosecutor whom he encounters during the night.
Vincent, cold and calculating, remains relentless in his mission, showcasing his lethal skills and unwavering commitment to completing his assignments. His interactions with Max throughout the night reveal unexpected layers of his character and beliefs, sparking intense philosophical conversations about fate, morality, and the nature of life.
The film masterfully captures the tension and unpredictability of the nocturnal cityscape, using its dark and neon-lit visuals to create an atmosphere of constant threat and urgency. Michael Mann’s direction brings a gritty realism to the proceedings, emphasizing the psychological toll on both characters as the night progresses.
Jamie Foxx delivers a nuanced performance as Max, evolving from an ordinary cab driver into a man forced to confront his fears and take a stand against the violence unfolding around him. Tom Cruise’s portrayal of Vincent is chilling and charismatic, showcasing a different facet of his acting repertoire with a compelling blend of charm and menace.
“Collateral” is a high-stakes thriller that explores themes of fate, morality, and the unexpected connections forged amidst chaos. It’s a pulse-pounding narrative that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, offering a gripping and suspenseful ride through the dark underbelly of a sprawling city.
When asked about a “good scene” and a “bad scene” this is what AI says:
Good Scene: The tense nightclub sequence, showcasing Tom Cruise’s performance as Vincent, is a standout moment.
Potential Critique: The film’s resolution has been criticized for its abruptness.
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