The chances of having two outstanding films in one year is unlikely, and the odds that the second one would surpass the first in quality is unheard of. This is the situation that Steven Soderbergh finds himself in after directing Erin Brockovich and Traffic within twelve months. Although not an original concept (based on Channel 4 (UK) mini-series "Traffik") the storytelling skills of Soderbergh elevates this above the source material. This is Soderbergh's largest canvas to date, and he uses it to full effect to tell three distinct storylines across two countries, running for two and half absorbing hours.
Soderbergh's skill as a director shines through in the fact that he has basically made a feature-length documentary, but with all the boring parts cut out. The fast cutting allows the scenes to flow uninhibited and in doing so establishes a rhythm that makes the story almost real.
As for the cast, Douglas and Zeta-Jones are adequate in a fine ensemble, especially Douglas who for once has a less showy role, embodying genuine pathos at the plight of society and his family. The real gem here though is Benicio Del Toro, portraying an honest Tijuana lawman caught in an impossible situation. Although he mumbles half his lines, fortunately there are in Spanish so the viewer is able to follow the subtitles. Ultimately, when all is said and done, Soderbergh has produced work of the highest order, perhaps his best work to date. Proof once more that with a great cast and script, Soderbergh is a class act. You'd be a fool to miss this one.
My Rating: 10/10
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