Luis Llosa was given a Hollywood project and the outcome is not as bad as one imagines. This was the first time pairing of Stone and Stallone. Unfortunately the two do not spend much screen time together So as a result of this, the movie looses out on few marks. The viewer would watch on in anticipation however the pair meet after half the movie completes. But their first meeting does not evoke much excitement either.
To me the movie was very reminiscent of Luc Besson's 'leon', due to the similar scenario. However there are differences and one should not make comparisons. Despite this the first scene set in Columbia also reminded me of a similar scene from the movie 'Scarface'. I could not help noticing these connections and I'm sure there would be many more if observed closely.
What surprises me the most is that I was so indulged in watching the movie that the notes I made was limited. I found the phone conversations between the two leads very intimate and erotic. That was a high point for me. These scenes really developed more anticipation in me to looking forward to seeing them meet. It helped me to sympathise with Sharon Stone's character. But I found it difficult to relate to her experience of loosing the family as in that specific scene she was very young. I'm unable to understand as to why it took so many years for her to decide to take revenge.
The plot is not groundbreaking on any standard, but Stone and James Woods presence enhances enjoyment and sustains the viewers attention. Sharon Stone entices a bomb expert to avenge her family's murder. Initially Stallone is unwilling so Stone decides to go in herself by befriending Eric Roberts, the son of mafia don 'Rod Steiger'. Eventually Stallone decides to make the move. He has three targets to kill which he accomplishes with a variety of unique bombs. However later the tables are turned when Stallone discovers that he was set up by Stone as this was a plan between her and James Woods to apprehend him. However this does not prove easy to accomplish as Stone develops feelings Stallone as the two have become close.
The setting of Miami in Florida was very suited to the movie's theme. The nightlife and locales were pictured very nicely. This added to the movie's appeal. Initially it is difficult to feel interested with the plot as the plot progression is at a slow rate. This was because Stone's character development takes up much running time. However after 30 minutes the pace picks up. The explosion scenes were filmed very uniquely and the different methods used were very hilarious. It urges one to watch on in anxiousness. The background score was appropriate to the movie and the it used at the right moments.
Sharon Stone is given the opportunity to wear a variety of different clothes. She has never looked beautiful. It really suited her image. In my opinion she was the correct choice for the movie. Rod Steiger gives his impersonation of Tony Montana and Eric Roberts displays his good looking body. James Woods overshadows Stallone in yet another fantastic performance. Every time he appears it is a treat to watch him. His dialogue delivery is perfect. Stallone takes a back seat and effortlessly plays it straight. His practical involvement is restricted but he never dissatisfies.
To me the movie was very reminiscent of Luc Besson's 'leon', due to the similar scenario. However there are differences and one should not make comparisons. Despite this the first scene set in Columbia also reminded me of a similar scene from the movie 'Scarface'. I could not help noticing these connections and I'm sure there would be many more if observed closely.
What surprises me the most is that I was so indulged in watching the movie that the notes I made was limited. I found the phone conversations between the two leads very intimate and erotic. That was a high point for me. These scenes really developed more anticipation in me to looking forward to seeing them meet. It helped me to sympathise with Sharon Stone's character. But I found it difficult to relate to her experience of loosing the family as in that specific scene she was very young. I'm unable to understand as to why it took so many years for her to decide to take revenge.
The plot is not groundbreaking on any standard, but Stone and James Woods presence enhances enjoyment and sustains the viewers attention. Sharon Stone entices a bomb expert to avenge her family's murder. Initially Stallone is unwilling so Stone decides to go in herself by befriending Eric Roberts, the son of mafia don 'Rod Steiger'. Eventually Stallone decides to make the move. He has three targets to kill which he accomplishes with a variety of unique bombs. However later the tables are turned when Stallone discovers that he was set up by Stone as this was a plan between her and James Woods to apprehend him. However this does not prove easy to accomplish as Stone develops feelings Stallone as the two have become close.
The setting of Miami in Florida was very suited to the movie's theme. The nightlife and locales were pictured very nicely. This added to the movie's appeal. Initially it is difficult to feel interested with the plot as the plot progression is at a slow rate. This was because Stone's character development takes up much running time. However after 30 minutes the pace picks up. The explosion scenes were filmed very uniquely and the different methods used were very hilarious. It urges one to watch on in anxiousness. The background score was appropriate to the movie and the it used at the right moments.
Sharon Stone is given the opportunity to wear a variety of different clothes. She has never looked beautiful. It really suited her image. In my opinion she was the correct choice for the movie. Rod Steiger gives his impersonation of Tony Montana and Eric Roberts displays his good looking body. James Woods overshadows Stallone in yet another fantastic performance. Every time he appears it is a treat to watch him. His dialogue delivery is perfect. Stallone takes a back seat and effortlessly plays it straight. His practical involvement is restricted but he never dissatisfies.