Collateral, released in theaters on August 6, 2004, is a stylish and intense crime thriller that takes place over the course of a single night in Los Angeles. The film is a masterclass in tension and character, driven by an unforgettable duo and Mann’s signature neo-noir aesthetic.
The story follows Max Durocher (Jamie Foxx), a meticulous and aspiring limousine driver who has been driving a cab for 12 years. His carefully planned, routine life is upended when he picks up a seemingly ordinary fare: a charming, silver-haired professional named Vincent (Tom Cruise).
Vincent, a cool and efficient hitman, has five targets to eliminate before the night is over. Max is forced, under duress, to drive Vincent from one hit to the next, becoming an unwilling accomplice in a series of shocking crimes.
As the night progresses, the two men form a strange, tense bond, and Max’s timid nature is tested to its limits.
The film also features a strong supporting cast, including Jada Pinkett Smith as U.S. Attorney Annie Farrell, Mark Ruffalo as Detective Fanning, and Peter Berg as a tenacious federal agent.
The ensemble also includes Bruce McGill, Richard T. Jones and Javier Bardem.
Jason Statham appears in a brief cameo as ‘Airport Man.’
Tom Cruise in Collateral (Photo/Paramount Pictures)
Reception for Collateral
Collateral grossed $24.7 million on its opening weekend, finishing No. 1 at the box office.
The film would gross $2220.2 million worldwide.
Roger Ebert gave the film three and a half out of four stars in his review.
Legacy
Collateral is widely praised for its unique and compelling take on the thriller genre. Cruise‘s portrayal of Vincent is considered one of the best of his career, a chilling and charismatic turn as a cold-blooded killer. Foxx‘s Oscar-nominated performance as the mild-mannered cab driver who must find his courage is equally brilliant and a perfect foil to Cruise’s villain.
The film is also a technical marvel with director Michael Mann’s groundbreaking use of high-definition digital cameras captured the vibrant, neon-lit Los Angeles cityscape in a way that had never been seen before, making the city itself a character in the film.
The tense pacing, brilliant performances, and stunning visuals have solidified Collateral‘s place as a modern classic of the genre. It’s a film that proves a simple, high-concept premise can be elevated to extraordinary heights with exceptional execution.
