 | Training Day Starring: Denzel Washington, Ethan Hawke, Scott Glenn |
The frustrating problem with "Training Day" is that this impressive film could have attained classic status but thanks to it's often preposterous narrative, it settles for a better than average cop film. It is one of those films that I liked from the beginning and kept hoping that the gritty, well-acted work would sustain its momentum. For two thirds of the film it did quite well. Suddenly, writer Ayer asked the audience to ignore credibility and the film rapidly deteriorated into its dismal conclusion. Yet this sad fate is greatly overcome with an outstanding performance by Denzel Washington and a nice acting job by Ethan Hawke. The direction and cinematography are exceptional. The audience gets a view of the seldom seen underbelly of sunny, smoggy Los Angeles. Real locations are used effectively to create an authentic feel. The story takes place during 24 hours in the life of Jake Hoyt (Hawke) a naïve, rookie cop who has one day to prove his worth to head narc Alonzo Harris, a street savvy undercover narcotics agent with LAPD. Alonzo is something of a legend within the LAPD. Washington's Alonzo is eminently likeable but we get the feeling that this cop is not beyond bending the rules to get his man. Hoyt is somewhat shocked at Alonzo's methods but he grudgingly goes along. If he makes the grade, he's on a fast track to becoming a detective. As Alonzo Harris becomes more and more of a wild canon, Hoyt becomes more and more alarmed. Washington allows his character to become darker yet his subtle charm continues to fascinate the young rookie. We soon realise that Alonzo is about as evil as they come, yet Washington's terrific performance seduces not only Hoyt but the audience as well. We really want to like this guy. Soon, young Hoyt has some choices to make. I won't go any further with the story. I cannot help but recommend "Training Day". Washington literally explodes on the screen and this performance more than makes up for the flaws in the narrative. Hawke begins a bit too naïve but eventually goes toe to toe with Washington. Scott Glenn adds an interesting cameo to the film. A particularly impressive scene at LA's Pacific Dining Car, hangout for LA's top cops, makes for a memorable moment. With the exception of a few needless lapses in the story, "Training Day" is quite believable due to the recent LAPD Rampart scandals. It's a good film but it's Washington's Alonzo Harris that will stay in your memory. |