Snake Eyes (1998)
Starring Nicolas Cage, Gary Sinise, John Heard.
Directed by Brian De Palma.
Rated R.
Grade: B
G
Snake Eyes by director Brian DePalma is another contrived conspiracy yarn that we don't really believe. But that doesn't mean that we can't have any fun with it. This movie demonstrates how visual effects (intricate camera choreography), some good acting and a touch of satire can fill in the gaps of an otherwise incoherent plot.
Nicolas Cage plays Rick, a sleazy, materialistic cop who while attending a boxing match gets involved in the investigation of an assassination. But, of course, he uncoveres a conspiracy (the advertising slogan "believe everything but your eyes" -- DUH!) involving a defense defense mechanism gone awry, or something to that effect.
The resolution is creative, but also dissapointing, since DePalma lets the cat out of the bag way too early in the film, taking away much of the suspense that a mystery would have provided, therefore ridding the film of a chance to provide a truly surprise ending. Still, Snake Eyes proves to be an enjoyable affair.
Visually, the film looks great. De Palma stages a twenty-minute opening without a single cut -- the camera follows Rick all around the arena. And writer David Koepp (Mission: Impossible) seems to be toying with the genre, providing some deliciously funny moments.
Nicolas Cage is magnificent here. Even though he seems to play an arrogant prick in nearly every movie that he is in, he brings life to his character, and he is an acceptable hero. Gary Sinise is adequate too, as Rick's navy pal, even though he is once again typecast.
By no means is Snake Eyes a great film, but it is a very easy to watch thriller that is instantly forgettable, but good fun while it lasts.