Gone in 60 Seconds (2000)
A hint at a great story, with too much left unsaid.
It's a film that I used to love when I was younger. Not to say that I don't now, but I've definitely grown a bit harsher on it with time. I do like the story and the characters, I just wish there were more to it. You know, when you like a story so much that you want more, yet you come away unfulfilled.
Before I get into the details, let me expand upon the story. A since retired car thief is pulled once again into the life he left in order to save his younger brother from a ruthless employer. The task? A monumental one. Fifty cars, in one fell swoop. Can they do it? As far as Memphis Raines (Nicholas Cage) is concerned, they have to, for the sake of his brother, Kip (Giovanni Ribisi).
Now, right off the bat, I have to acknowledge the incredible intro. From the very beginning it’s setting just the right mood. You can almost hear the engine revving through the beats and tones in the music. This is what I mean, ladies and gentlemen, when I talk about the score or soundtrack being a perfect compliment. Whether the rest of the film lives up to it or not, it's definitely notable, and it's one of my favorite introductions.
When it comes to the cast, I don't think I have many complaints. The only caveat to that would be Nicholas Cage. Not to say he doesn't do well in the role, he absolutely does, but it's difficult for me to take him as a master thief. He's simply too comical of a personality for me. He's done the criminal role before with his part in Con Air, which was well done (or so I remember), but that was less hardened criminal and more a good guy caught in a bad situation. Something far more believable of a character for him to play, at least for me.
Other than that, I really can't complain. They have a stellar cast. Giovanni Ribisi does a great job as the younger, sort of lost, brother. I love Angelina Jolie, Robert Duvall, Vinnie Jones and the rest of the crew. Delroy Lindo does a fantastic job as the detective brought in to investigate. Christopher Eccleston plays a decent villain. I wish there was a bit more character development to really make him more malevolent, but, for the fast pace of the story, it works out okay.
For the technicals, again, the music is just perfect. Exactly what I'm looking for in a musical compliment. The cinematography is crafty, really showing skill with the lighting situation and visual aspect.
When it comes to the story, like I mentioned before, I feel as though there is definitely more to it, but that it's been edited to death. The characters are great, the storyline is amazing, I just wish we would get more of it. Stretch it out and really take the time to develop those characters well. But what's there is good.
Final thoughts: It certainly has the makings of a great film, and what I've seen is wonderful. I only wish there was more. It has a fast pace, so if you're looking for a film that is fun to put on, with fast cars and a hefty amount of action, this is a film you will enjoy, I think.
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