Shaft (2000)
Busta Rhymes, Christian Bale, Dan Hedaya
Samuel L. Jackson makes a gleefully updated John Shaft in John Singleton's homage to (not remake of) the early '70s action classic, picking up where Richard Roundtree's legendary Shaft left off. The Manhattan-set film is highlighted by excellent performances, dynamic action scenes, and witty... (read more) Samuel L. Jackson makes a gleefully updated John Shaft in John Singleton's homage to (not remake of) the early '70s action classic, picking up where Richard Roundtree's legendary Shaft left off. The Manhattan-set film is highlighted by excellent performances, dynamic action scenes, and witty one-liners (Jackson's Shaft: "It's my duty to please the booty"--although the line's deceptive: there's a surprising lack of sex in the film). Unfortunately, it's offset by a surprisingly uninspired, predictable, one-dimensional story, penned by Singleton, Richard Price, and Shane Salerno. The story, in which Shaft investigates the murder of a young African American, is without suspense, since from the start the audience knows that rich white boy Walter Wade (Christian Bale) did the deed, and that Shaft is going to kick his ass, big time. That said, charismatic performances--from Jackson (who, in keeping with the times, is more volatile and fiery than his predecessor), Toni Collette (as a frightened witness), the villainous Bale, and the utterly amazing Jeffrey Wright (Basquiat)--make the film enticing and watchable. Look for a cameo by the original Shaft's director, the legendary Gordon Parks, and fans of the original should note that a still stunningly handsome Roundtree briefly appears as Jackson's uncle. --N.F. Mendoza
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R, 127 min.
Directed by:
John Singleton
Release Date: Jun 16, 2000
DVD Release Date: Dec 12, 2000
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Flixster User Reviews
Much better than what I was expecting and heard about it. Samuel L. Jackson plays the tough cop who looks more like a gangster as usual. It was nice that they got the old and original Shaft. The scene with the two bad guys talking and one of them dec... (read more) Much better than what I was expecting and heard about it. Samuel L. Jackson plays the tough cop who looks more like a gangster as usual. It was nice that they got the old and original Shaft. The scene with the two bad guys talking and one of them decides to take a dump at the same time was funny but unnecessary.
Finally saw it & I thought it was great. I also recogized the original Shaft playing the part of Shaft's Uncle. I liked that, just like in Starsky & Hutch cameo's...Nice Touch...
by far not as good as the original, but that's a common ting with remakes...
A descent, solid movie. Well acted and decently written. The movie isn't anything incredible, but its good. The script/story is simple, but its not bad. Its a basic, entertaining movie. Well acted with just enough action. Bale and Jackson shin... (read more) A descent, solid movie. Well acted and decently written. The movie isn't anything incredible, but its good. The script/story is simple, but its not bad. Its a basic, entertaining movie. Well acted with just enough action. Bale and Jackson shine (of course). And I think its hilarious that Christian Bale has been quoted as saying he considers it an honor to be called an 'M.F.'er' by Samuel L Jackson in a film.
Stupid idea, but an okay movie. Jackson's ability to make cussing really cool simply amazes me. Bale was a pretty good villain, too.
got stuck into watching this film this week, drawn into the action and the magnetism of Shaft - very cynical in places but decent movie to watch late into the night!
love this film watched it last night where the dark cop tackled the dark night christian bale
Samuel L. Jackson slightly elevates this below-average homage to the original "Shaft," but the corny dialogue, shitty characterization, horrible direction, and otherwise uninspired performances detract from it overall. Apart from Ving Rhames, it's ha... (read more) Samuel L. Jackson slightly elevates this below-average homage to the original "Shaft," but the corny dialogue, shitty characterization, horrible direction, and otherwise uninspired performances detract from it overall. Apart from Ving Rhames, it's hard to imagine any other contemporary actor picking up where Richard Roundtree left off.
New York City police detective John Shaft (nephew of the original 1970s detective) goes on a personal mission to make sure the son of a real estate tycoon is brought to justice after a racially-motivated murder.
Critic Reviews
Is this a good movie? Not exactly; too much of it is on automatic pilot, as it must be, to satisfy the fans of the original Shaft.full review
The surprise is that the movie doesn't just rely on Jackson. Shaft has everything.full review
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