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Plot: Ryder (John Travolta) and his gang hijack a train, strand it in a subway tunnel, and demand a ransom from dispatcher Walter Garber (Denzel Washington.) The police swoop in, as Garber continues his dialogue with Ryder. The clock ticks down, and hostage payoff action takes the movie to its conclusion.
Review: There is a surprising amount of action in this movie that generally plays out in a subway car. Travolta is the strongest element, and Ryder's dialogue with Garber always seems believable. Travolta plays Ryder as a larger than life character who is smart enough to be a worthy adversary. Washington underplays Garber, but he seems genuine from the opening few lines. He does not seem to recognizable to be a regular guy. The Mayor (James Gandolfini) provides some smiles too.
This is a solid thriller and an enjoyable night at the movies. For this style of film, it is well done. The special effects are limited in number but well done when they are needed. The grittiness of the subway was a suitable setting for the mood of the picture. Pretty well directed and always fast moving.
Cast and crew: Denzel Washington, John Travolta; directed by Tony Scott, based on the novel by John Godey
Rating: 2.5+ flasks
More: And he remembered to bring the milk home.
Even more: In the 1974 movie Walter Mathau played Garber, and he was the police Lieutenant. James Broderick was the bad guy. Comedian Jerry Stiller was also in the film.
