Plot: What’s it about?
Henry (Keanu Reeves) is a tollbooth operator and while he is a decent man, he isn’t the smartest tool in the shed. This is never more obvious than when his shady friend (Fisher Stevens) tricks him into being a getaway driver for a bank heist, under the guise that he is merely driving to a softball game. When the truth is revealed and the heist goes sideways, Henry catches on too late and winds up captured and arrested. The others managed to escape on foot, but despite being in a car, Henry was caught by the police. While in jail, Henry encounters an old con named Max (James Caan) and the two strike up a friendship. He makes a plan that once he is released, he will rob the same bank and this time, on purpose. The plot involves a closed off underground tunnel and requires Henry to join the cast of a local stage production. Even with some guidance from seasoned criminal, can Henry pull off such a bold, unlikely caper?
I don’t mind some suspension of disbelief, after all even the best movies often have to bypass common sense from time to time, right? Henry’s Crime is either about the dumbest ensemble of characters in cinema’s history, or the filmmakers expect us to ignore common sense in total. The logic gaps aren’t about massive elements, but the characters just have no rhyme or reason to their behaviors. I have to think at least some of these folks are supposed to be of average intelligence, yet their actions leave you no choice but to suspect city-wide head injuries. The disappointing writing is a shame, as the cast really tries to make the most of their roles, but they can only do so much. Even wooden horse Keanu Reeves ambles up to a solid performance, but thanks to ineffective writing, it goes to waste. I suppose there is an audience for a movie about dumb people who make dumb decisions, but if that is what you’re after, there are better examples than this. Henry’s Crime isn’t a terrible movie per se, but a chain of poor writing decisions dooms it to be mediocre at best.
Video: How does it look?
Henry’s Crime is presented in 2.35:1 widescreen. This transfer looks good, but not quite remarkable. The visual depth is solid, certainly a step up over the standard release. I found detail to be strong in almost all scenes, with nice subtle touches evident in closer shots. The colors look natural in scope, while contrast is stark and effective. This one might not dazzle you, but it looks good and never disappoints.
Audio: How does it sound?
This DTS HD 5.1 soundtrack makes the most of the material’s sound design, but that still ends up being a rather basic presentation. The film focuses on dialogue, so the surrounds don’t pulse often and when they do, its usually for the music or some ambient background noise. Even so, the movie sounds good and natural, which is good news. The vocals are always clear and easy to pick up, which is the most important thing in this case. This disc also includes English and Spanish subtitles.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes no bonus materials.
