Firstly, let's establish that this is film is in the same vein as three of Mann's other work; Heat, Thief and Collateral. All four films are completely different, each of them containing a similar aesthetic. Miami Vice looks more real than the other films Mann has made; the HD cameras really give the film an aesthetic edge.
So yes, Mann has succeeded in bringing those urban landscapes to life again. Heat, with it steely blues, Collateral with diverse flowers of colour. Miami Vice shows us a dense urban landscape, with colour, texture and detail.
But is it a good film? Thankfully yes, though not as good as Heat. The first time through, the film is difficult to understand, all thanks to the actors mumbling their lines. This comes off as too moody. Coupled with the torrid storms in the distance, you'd think that Mann had gone all depressing on us.
However, the second time through, the film is rewarding. The performances are good on the whole. I particularly liked Farrell as Crockett. He showed just the right amount moody/mysterious, without becoming a complete tortured soul. Foxx comes off worse, trying to be too cool with his silent stares, but still manages to convince.
Gong Li creates a convincing character, but her accent is sometimes difficult to understand. Nonetheless, I was sold on her chemistry with Farrell, though they were prone to shag a lot.
The undercover antics of Crockett and Tubbs make for taut, adult and confusing crime film. Though the first half of the film struggles to get the motor running, the last half fares much better. Mann directs two tense "action" scenes. The camera is usually hand-held, and the movement of the battle methodically moves forward.
This film is not for action freaks. It is not like the TV show. What it does have is an intelligent story, wonderful images, city life and mature characters.
So yes, Mann has succeeded in bringing those urban landscapes to life again. Heat, with it steely blues, Collateral with diverse flowers of colour. Miami Vice shows us a dense urban landscape, with colour, texture and detail.
But is it a good film? Thankfully yes, though not as good as Heat. The first time through, the film is difficult to understand, all thanks to the actors mumbling their lines. This comes off as too moody. Coupled with the torrid storms in the distance, you'd think that Mann had gone all depressing on us.
However, the second time through, the film is rewarding. The performances are good on the whole. I particularly liked Farrell as Crockett. He showed just the right amount moody/mysterious, without becoming a complete tortured soul. Foxx comes off worse, trying to be too cool with his silent stares, but still manages to convince.
Gong Li creates a convincing character, but her accent is sometimes difficult to understand. Nonetheless, I was sold on her chemistry with Farrell, though they were prone to shag a lot.
The undercover antics of Crockett and Tubbs make for taut, adult and confusing crime film. Though the first half of the film struggles to get the motor running, the last half fares much better. Mann directs two tense "action" scenes. The camera is usually hand-held, and the movement of the battle methodically moves forward.
This film is not for action freaks. It is not like the TV show. What it does have is an intelligent story, wonderful images, city life and mature characters.