Search: Directed by Brian De Palma

Everything is so hurried that the wheels begin to come off.

The irreverent score, the gothic art direction, and Mario Tosi’s kaleidoscopic, slithering cinematography coalesce into something mesmeric.

De Palma pulls no punches in his representation of sex and violence, which are, as the film makes explicit, often inextricably intertwined.

By treating the script intelligently, De Palma is following Kubrick's example.

For those who cannot follow the plot there are some really good set pieces, with enough tension and excitement to carry the movie.

Aided by richly layered performances from his leads De Palma wrings real emotion and drama from what could have been a deeply silly caper.

Lacks all charm.

Again and again there are elements that will be echoed in later works, mirrors and masks and little friends, split screens and thrills and untimely ends.

Unlike most of the films about Iraq, Redacted portrays a military that’s a catchall for the uneducated and unsocialised; and while many may find this offensive, it’s perfectly in line with the draft-deferring lowering of recruitment standards.

The problem is neither Cage, nor the concept. It is the story.

Overrated and extremely dated.

Inspires a feeling of awe.