Plot: What’s it about?
Mackin (Alec Baldwin) is a suave master thief who always delivers the goods, no matter how large or small the heist is. His personal life is much different from his profession though, as he likes to relax most of the time and listen to some jazz records. His sensitive and human shines through also as he cares for his dog, who has some manner of ailment. In other words while Mackin is a criminal, he isn’t that bad of a guy and chooses to live a simple, private life away from his profession. But he isn’t the only skilled thief in the area, as Pointy (Michael Jai White) also resides close by and can claim similar levels of success in the business. But the two couldn’t be more different, as Pointy is a brash show off who prefers a flashier and more decadent lifestyle. Pointy decides he needs to eliminate the competition and as such, he sets up Mackin for a simple job that turns into a real mess. Of course this enrages Mackin and even sparks a war of sorts between the two, which means things could become of hand very quickly. In the middle of this conflict are a female police officer (Rebecca DeMornay) and a gang boss (David Byrd), both of whom seek to close this skirmish down before it goes too far.
This review covers my first viewing of the film and if you’ve seen the trailer and decided to pass, you need to go ahead and give this movie a chance. The trailer is misleading in essence because while the movie does have some darker comedic moments, it is at heart a crime drama which means you don’t get what the trailer advertises. This isn’t a full on drama though, as there is some nice suspense, comedy, and even touches of action woven into the mix at times. I think the movie comes together very well and with a solid storyline and talented cast, the entire package is well rounded. The storyline is very cool and while some stumbling blocks are hit along the way, for the most part it stays interesting and fresh throughout the movie. I didn’t expect a whole lot from the movie, but I am pleased with the time I spent with this disc. In the myriad of revenge fueled crime films this movie falls in the above average category, but don’t expect a masterpiece. USA has issued a very nice disc for Thick As Thieves, but I wish some more bonus materials would have been included. I recommend this release as a rental to those interested, while fans will want to slam down the cash to own this sucker.
This film was directed by Scott Sanders, who makes his feature debut with this movie. Sanders also joined Arthur Krystal with writing the screenplay, which was based on the novel by Patrick Quinn. Given that this is Sanders debut motion picture I am very pleased with the results and I think he has some serious potential in the business. The actors seem to be at home in their roles and never falter much, which speaks a lot about a first time director like Sanders. Sanders uses some nice compositions in this film, but usually relies on a more simple, basic approach. I never noticed this technique not working though, so no complaints on that issue. I commend Sanders for his work on this film and look forward to his future projects. Alec Baldwin (The Edge, The Hunt For Red October) seems to be the lead in this movie, though others share a great deal of screen time also. Baldwin comes across well in this role and seems just the right blend of arrogance and simple nature, which is just what this character needed. As usual, Andre Braugher (It’s The Rage, Primal Fear) turns in an excellent and effective performance. The supporting cast also includes Bruce Greenwood (Hide and Seek, Disturbing Behavior), David Byrd (Tango & Cash, Lost Highway), Michael Jai White (Breakfast Of Champions, Spawn), and Rebecca DeMornay (Never Talk To Strangers, The Hand That Rocks The Cradle).
Video: How does it look?
Thick As Thieves is presented in a 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen transfer, with a full frame version also included on the same side of this dual layered disc. You simply make your selection on the menu and there are you are, the aspect ratio of your choice. This is a sharp and impressive transfer in all respects, with no real complaints to be made. I found no problems with compression and noted a very clean print was used for this release, which means a solid visual base was established. The colors seem bright and bold with no smears or bleeds, while flesh tones look normal and warm at all times. The contrast is well in order also, with complex shadows and a very level of visible detail, even in the darkest scenes. This review covers the widescreen version of the film and I recommend you keep away from the full frame version, as much of the image is lost in the transition.
Audio: How does it sound?
This release sounds just as good as it looks, which means the included Dolby Digital 5.1 track takes of business very well. The musical score sounds terrific in this mix and really seems to mesh well with the movie, which is crucial of course. You’ll notice the music makes often use of the surrounds and also works the bass into things more than a time or two. The surrounds are active through much of this movie though and while that surprised me, I never felt like the audio was forced because it always sounded natural. I was sometimes shocked at how much the bass kicks, but it fits into the scope of things so power to the mixers. The dialogue isn’t lost in the woods of this though, as vocals emerge clean and clear with no volume inconsistencies.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This release includes filmographies for the prominent leads and a theatrical trailer for the film. I would have liked more supplements, but I guess you just can’t win them all.
