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A real thinking man's drama, 25th Hour doesn't hammer metaphors or character motivations through the viewers skull, the intelligent and gripping screenplay seeks to flesh out the character of Monty Brogan and his 'real friends' and 'cham friends' in Monty's final 24 hours of freedom before a 7 year jail sentence for drug dealing. Yes, the protagonist is not only a drug dealer who has made a great deal money from his trade, he's also been arrested and sentenced - not a great deal for the audience to root for. However, it's testament to Norton's performance and Lee's direction that what could have been a by the numbers "loser seeks redemption" feature ends with genuine feelings of sympathy for such a complicated character. The final scene, where Monty's dad (an assured Brian Cox) drives Monty to jail, is an absolute stand out, with a beautifully realised 'what if' segment and a final line that resonates long after the film has finished. Lee excels by ably increasing Monty's dread while making the film a visual treat (the nightclub scene showcases his unique brilliance). By adding the aftermath of 9/11 to the script (one scene takes placed looking at the twin towers' site), Lee also seeks to address New York's feelings on the post 9/11 recovery, intertwined (but not heavily handed) with Monty's predicament in as subtle and intelligent way as I have seen done. The supporting cast are all pivotal cogs to the film, backed up by Benioff's in turns blistering and moving script. Pepper and Hoffman's scenes together, for example, subtly give you a full understanding of their characters histories over 2 scenes containing dialogue that's at times hilarious and brutal, while Rosario Dawson is stunning and vulnerable as the wronged / wrong-doing Naturelle. In my view, this film follows smoothly on from He Got Game for Lee (ignoring Summer of Sam, Bamboozled etc) in that it is built around the choices we make, the regrets they bring and the complicated relationships surrounding fathers and sons, and friends that are as close as family. Add a fantastic soundtrack (although you can't buy the tunes that feature, only the orchestral music) and 25th Hour is a film that once you have seen, you'll want to see again. Great extras too, including an extended featurette on Lee (not enough on 25th Hour in it though) and two great commentaries by Benioff and Lee. As with all great films, you are not supplied with a simple 'A to B' plot, all neatly wrapped up, but a film that leaves you pondering everything that you have seen before long after the DVD has been switched off.Read full review
Very good film, one of Spike Lee's best & least racist. The film is about Edward Norton's (a drug dealer) last 24 hours before he goes to prison for 7 years. Set in post 9/11 New York the film captures the anger of the situation plus thfear that Norton has in going to prison. The only thing I didnt like was the occasional strange shot of showing the same shot over & over, I'm sure its very arthouse but didnt really work for me. Apart from that small problem it is very well put together & very enjoyable.
I saw this film a few years back and loved it the first time i saw it. It is a true to life film about love, friendship, family and making mistakes. Edward Norton is excellent as usual and palys the part really well. The ending is brilliant and even bought a tear to my eye - its a kind of make your own mind up ending. If you have the chance to see this film - do it!!!!
I watched this movie not knowing what to expect and real enjoyed it. The story keeps you gripped and the acting is excellent. Norton and Cox are great as ever and the supporting cast are great as well. This ranks up there with Malcolm X of all of Spike Lee's films.
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