Bait

"Bait" is the type of film that makes you say "Wow!!!! I enjoyed this film.

There are several things I enjoyed about "Bait." The first thing was the villainous character played by Doug Hutchison. His character is played with excellence and brilliance.

The second thing I enjoyed was the fact that the script seemed to be so unique in what was being played out on screen. When I watch movies I look for originality and I found this with "Bait."

Finally, I enjoyed how "Bait" never let up from the beginning to the end. Also, each cast member brings something special to "Bait," which makes it much more dramatic and funny film. "Bait" is a film that will appeal to everyone who enjoys dramatic scenes as well as comedic scenes.

The previews on TV made this movie look like a dumb-guy goofball comedy, and with Jamie Foxx in the lead it was worth seeing just for that.

So when it turned out to be a full-on big time movie with lots of action, great characters (including a host of well done supporting roles), true love, a government conspiracy and some genuine laugh-out-loud moments, I WAS PLEASANTLY SURPRISED!

I recently rewatched Bait (2000) on Tubi. The plot centers on a lifelong petty criminal offered a chance by the police to secure his freedom in exchange for helping them capture a targeted criminal. However, what appears to be a golden opportunity may carry unforeseen consequences for our thief.

Directed by Antoine Fuqua (Training Day), the film features an ensemble cast including Jamie Foxx (Ray), David Morse (The Green Mile), Kimberly Elise (Diary of a Mad Black Woman), Mike Epps (Next Friday), Jamie Kennedy (Scream 2), and David Paymer (Get Shorty).

Bait is one of those films that consistently surprises with its humor, largely thanks to Jamie Foxx's comedic prowess. The character development is well-done, allowing Foxx ample room for his comedic escapades. Additionally, the love story and baby elements add depth, with Kimberly Elise delivering a strong performance. However, beyond the character development, the film falls into the realm of predictability, with a straightforward storyline and exaggerated circumstances leading to an ending that may seem too convenient.

In conclusion, while Bait offers comedic moments and showcases Jamie Foxx's talents, it struggles to rise above its ordinary storyline. I would rate it a 6/10 but still recommend giving it a watch, if only for Foxx's performance.

Alvin Sanders (Jamie Foxx) is a career petty criminal who got caught stealing prawns. U.S. Treasury investigator Edgar Clenteen (David Morse) is working on a case of stolen $42M gold. John Jaster (Robert Pastorelli) double crossed his partner Bristol (Doug Hutchison) and hid the gold. The investigation finds Jaster's fingerprint and it turns out that he's in Rikers for DWI. Before he dies, the sick Jaster tells Alvin to tell his wife that "There's no place like home." and about the Brooklyn zoo. The technically advanced Bristol is using his skills to follow Clenteen in his investigation. The amoral Clenteen secretly plants a tracker/bug in Alvin's jaw, and let a rumor out that he knows where the gold is. They allow Alvin to walk and Clenteen hopes to catch Bristol when he comes after Alvin.

Jamie Foxx is trying so hard to be the smart-mouthed fun guy, and the movie is trying to be a high-energy thriller. Neither one reach their goal. It's just too outlandish. There's too much ridiculous stuff going on. Director Antoine Fuqua is trying hide a mediocre comedy thriller with a lot of attitude. It just tires out the movie. Of the three lead characters, I like none of them. The constant yapping from Foxx is not fun, and Mike Epps is not a good partner for him. They're almost the same character. The duo needs a straight guy. And the action is second rate anyways.

This movie had trouble deciding whether it was a comedy or an action thriller. But I don't think I would have enjoyed it if the comedy hadn't been there. I won't say Jamie Foxx showed the talent for playing Ray Charles, but he was okay. He wasn't a complete goofball. If he showed any range at all, it came in jail when the other prisoner got sick. If anyone gave a good performance, it was the man who was chasing Jamie, but I don't remember his name. Quite a disturbing character. Also good: the actor playing the government agent who seemed to be in charge.

The best thing about the movie was the way it ended. Very exciting, with lots of good editing and stunt work. I will say only that this happened at a race track, with one rider going against the horses who were in an actual race!

It was also exciting the way the FBI was able to keep track of Jamie's character. I don't know how realistic the technology was, but it was interesting and the special effects and computer technology were enjoyable to watch.

It wasn't the best action film ever, but it wasn't complete garbage.