Bait (released in theaters on September 15, 2000) follows Alvin Sanders (Jamie Foxx), a fast-talking, small-time petty thief who lands in prison after getting caught stealing seafood. While sharing a holding cell, Alvin’s cellmate Jaster (Robert Pastorelli) suffers a fatal heart attack, but not before whispering a cryptic message regarding forty million dollars in stolen gold bullion hidden by his ruthless, high-tech partner Bristol (Doug Hutchison).
Recognizing an opportunity, federal investigator Edgar Clenteen (David Morse) secretly releases Alvin and equips him with a hidden tracking device and a microphone implanted in his jaw, effectively transforming the clueless hustler into live bait to lure the killer out of hiding.
Unaware that he is being monitored around the clock by Clenteen’s team, including government agent Wooly (David Paymer), Alvin attempts to turn his life around and reconcile with his estranged, pregnant girlfriend Lisa (Kimberly Elise).
His fresh start is constantly derailed by his chaotic former partner in crime, Stevie (Mike Epps), as well as Bristol, who tracks Alvin down to extract the location of the fortune.
As Bristol unleashes a wave of high-tech violence across the city to recover the loot, Alvin realizes he is caught in a deadly crossfire between a sadistic criminal mastermind and cold-blooded federal agents, forcing him to rely on his wits to survive the setup and protect his family.
Director Antoine Fuqua delivers a stylish, high-energy hybrid of action and comedy, utilizing dynamic camerawork and explosive set pieces that showcase his signature visual flair.
Foxx gives a commanding lead performance, balancing razor-sharp comedic improvisation with genuine dramatic vulnerability.
Morse brings a stern, formidable gravitas to his role as the calculating federal agent, while Hutchison turns in a chillingly methodical performance as the villain, and Epps provides memorable comedic support throughout the chaotic ordeal.
Jamie Kennedy, Nestor Serrano and Jeffrey Donovan round out the supporting cast.
Jamie Foxx in Bait (Photo/Warner Bros.)
Reception for Bait
Bait grossed $5.5 million on its opening weekend, finishing second at the box office behind The Watcher, which earned $5.8 million on its second weekend.
The film would gross $15.5 million in its theatrical run.
Roger Ebert gave Bait three out of four stars in his review.
Legacy
Bait‘s legacy rests on its position as a key transitional milestone in Fuqua’s career, bridging his music video roots with the gritty thriller style that would culminate in Training Day shortly after.
It is also recognized by film fans as a crucial early vehicle showcasing Foxx’s immense potential as a bankable Hollywood action star capable of carrying major studio releases.
Bait remains an enjoyable, nostalgic slice of turn-of-the-century cinema, remembered for its kinetic energy, sharp dialogue, and charismatic lead performances.
