Starring: Denzel Washington, Ethan Hawke, Tom Berenger
Directed by: Antoine Fuqua

Extremely intelligent and intriguing, Training Day starring Denzel Washington and Ethan Hawke is a grim look at a corrupt L.A. police department. Many people would call this movie a good cop flick, typical police drama, fairly standard stuff. But I saw the film as being presented in an almost mythological way, presenting the two characters as symbols of good and evil. Denzel Washington's character Alonzo doesn't seem to have a single redeeming quality throughout the movie, while Jake is such a greenhorn it is almost comical at times.

The story is pretty simple. It is Jake Hoyt's first day on the narcotics division of the LAPD and it seems that his partner, Alonzo is up to something. Is Alonzo going to become a wise mentor, or is he a devious criminal who is merely exploiting Jake? The movie is packed full of symbols and if you're in the mood to dissect the film, I believe there is indeed more to it than meets the eye.

Still, a movie full of symbols would not at all be interesting to watch if not for the fantastic acting on both the parts of Denzel Washington and Ethan Hawke. The acting is such that you are completely pulled into the movie and fascinated by every little thing the characters do and say. Alonzo is both terrifying and fascinating to watch at all times throughout the movie. Ethan Hawke is the perfect compliment to this unbelievable character and the viewer is able to identify with his disgust, confusion and terror.

The movie also had some fun moments. It had just a little bit of action with some cameo appearances by Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg and Macy Gray.

This is one of the best movies of the year. It's very intriguing, but if you're in the mood for action, this might be a little too slow paced.

MastaCSG
Jack