Next up in my Denzel Washington Blu-ray season is the boxing film The Hurricane (1999) which is based on a true story. I’ll happily admit I didn’t know this story. In essence it’s a story of a man wrongly imprisoned because of his race. It’s an incredibly powerful film. Let’s examine it a little closer, so without further ado here’s The Hurricane Blu-ray Review.
- The Hurricane (1999) – Import
- Genre: Biographical Sports Drama
- Directed by Norman Jewison
- UK Rating N/A
- Discs: 1
- Released By Universal Pictures
Plot
The Hurricane is based on the true story of professional boxer Rubin “The Hurricane” Carter. Having taken the boxing world by storm his whole world is turned upside down when he is accused of shooting and killing three white people in a bar. Detective Della Pesca makes it so all the evidence points to Rubin Carter.
He is them found guilty by a jury and sentenced to three life terms. However The Hurricane uses his time in prison to better himself and eventually writes a book telling his story. That book finds its way into the hands of a young boy Lesra Martin. He finds it inspirational and sets out to contact The Hurricane.
Style / Direction
The films directed by Norman Jewison whilst the cinematography is handled by Roger Deakins. First off the film is incredibly well made. Pacing wise the film is perfect. The story is told by using several flashback sequences. This actually enhances the storytelling and allows it to flow well.
Music / Audio Effects
The music score comes from Christopher Young.
Acting / Characters
Denzel Washington’s portrayal Rubin “The Hurricane” Carter is simply outstanding. His performances both in the ring and in prison are extremely powerful. In fact I found myself thoroughly enthralled by his character’s story.
Vicellous Reon Shannon plays the young boy Lesra Martin that discovers The Hurricane’s story. In fact it’s a life changing event for him. He plays the role very well and there’s definitely a decent chemistry between him and Washington.
Dan Hedaya as Detective Sergeant Della Pesca is very convincing as a really nasty and racist guy. He’s only interested in one thing, ensuring that Rubin “The Hurricane” Carter remains behind bars forever.
The other key characters include three Canadian’s. They initially are interested in helping Lesra Martin attend college. Liev Schreiber, Deborah Kara Unger and John Hannah take on the roles. All turn in solid performances.
Oh a keep an eye out for Clancy Brown as a prison warden.
Cast
- Denzel Washington as Rubin “The Hurricane” Carter
- Vicellous Reon Shannon as Lesra Martin
- Deborah Kara Unger as Lisa Peters
- Liev Schreiber as Sam Chaiton
- John Hannah as Terry Swinton
- Dan Hedaya as Det. Sgt. Della Pesca, based on Vincent DeSimone
- Clancy Brown as Lt. Jimmy Williams
- Debbi Morgan as Mae Thelma Carter
- David Paymer as Myron Beldock
- Harris Yulin as Leon Friedman
- Rod Steiger as Judge H. Lee Sarokin
- Vincent Pastore as Alfred Bello
- George T. Odom as Big Ed
- Beatrice Winde as Louise Cockersham
Conclusion: The Hurricane (1999) Film Review
I found The Hurricane to be an extremely powerful and compelling story. Furthermore it’s a well made movie that consists of an exceptional leading actor backed up by a very good supporting cast. The story is based on true events. I for one would recommend you take a look at the film. This is not really a boxing film. It’s really about one man’s struggle for justice.
If you enjoyed my The Hurricane Blu-ray Review so far you may want to check out the following films:
Conclusion: The Hurricane Blu-ray Review – Import
Now let’s talk about the picture quality. For the most part it is excellent, with the image sharp and clean. The only negatives I have are a few white marks that appear once in a while. Don’t get me wrong this is a decent enough Blu-ray release but not a perfect one.
Finally to the extras, they consist of a making of feature, deleted scenes and trailer. The making of feature is only 20 minutes long and I found it to be well worth a look. It features interviews with cast and crew such as Denzel Washington and the real Rubin “The Hurricane” Carter.
Overall I’d say it’s a solid set of extras.
Extras
- Spotlight On Location: The Making of The Hurricane (20 mins)
- Deleted Scenes
- Director Feature Commentary
- Theatrical Trailers
Popcorn Cinema Rating: The The Hurricane (1999)
MOVIE RATING: EXCELLENT
BLU-RAY RATING: GOOD
EXTRAS: VERY GOOD
POPCORN CINEMA: RECOMMENDED
Available on Blu-ray
The Hurricane (1999) is available on blu-ray providing you are willing to obtain an imported version.
The Hurricane (1999) Film Trailer
For those of you yet to see the film I’ll leave you with a little taster…
Clip may not representative of the Blu-ray version
That’s my The Hurricane Blu-ray review, I’m aiming to review at least one Denzel Washington film a week. What’s next? Check back soon…
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Summary: The Hurricane Blu-ray Review - Import
Movie title: The Hurricane (1999)
Duration: 146 mins
Director(s): Norman Jewison
Actor(s): Denzel Washington, Vicellous Reon, Deborah Kara Unger, Liev Schreiber, John Hannah, Dan Hedaya, Clancy Brown
Genre: Biographical , Sports Drama
- Movie Rating
- Blu-ray Picture Rating
- Extras
Summary
An extremely powerful and compelling story expertly executed.
Pros
- Compelling Story
- Denzel Washington
Cons
- No UK Blu-ray release
