neumu [ cinematronic ]




	Changing Lanes
	Roger Michell Ben Affleck, Samuel L. Jackson, Toni Collette, Sydney Pollack, William Hurt 2002		Considering the weighty theme and all-in-one-day motif of "Changing Lanes," the film risked being heavy-handed or ridiculous. Instead, driven by convincing, charismatic lead actors Ben Affleck and Samuel L. Jackson, it's a satisfying, engrossing drama about the circumstances that can hammer a wedge between people — and the amazing life-changing effects of one simple act or event. An auto accident triggers conflict between a hotshot Manhattan lawyer (Affleck) and a struggling insurance salesman (Jackson), each of whom is trying to get to a different important court hearing. Hostilities escalate as the men are thwarted in their objectives, try to set things right and exact retribution for perceived wrongs. Affleck's arrogance and Jackson's desperation are excruciating and palpable. The film's credibility is impaired in the interest of potent storytelling and accelerated forward motion, but director Roger Michell ("Notting Hill") navigates the hazards. With Toni Collette, Sydney Pollack and William Hurt.