Elmore Leonard may not be considered one of the best American writers today, but his novels have found immense popularity in Hollywood. Leonard's unique plots and quirky characters have been a goldmine for major studios in their quest for fresh and original screenplays. In the mid-1990s, there were several prestigious adaptations of Leonard's novels, most of them helmed by respected Hollywood filmmakers. One such adaptation was Out of Sight, a 1998 crime comedy directed by Steven Soderbergh.
The film follows Jack Foley (portrayed by George Clooney), a bank robber with an impressive record of 200 heists but a less-than-stellar track record of avoiding capture. After his latest arrest, Foley finds himself facing a 30-year sentence, but he holds on to hope knowing that his friend Buddy Bragg (played by Ving Rhames) is planning their escape. Things take a turn when US Marshal Karen Sisco (played by Jennifer Lopez) crosses paths with Foley during his escape attempt, leading to a series of unexpected events that bring them closer despite being on opposite sides of the law. As Foley and Bragg embark on a daring heist in Detroit, they must contend with a ruthless gangster and Sisco's relentless pursuit.
Out of Sight presents a familiar yet captivating premise of a charming criminal and a tough law enforcement officer finding themselves drawn to each other. In the hands of a less skilled director, this material could easily have fallen flat, but Soderbergh's expertise shines through in every frame. With a non-linear narrative structure and expert cinematography, Soderbergh crafts a film that stands out from mainstream Hollywood fare. The standout performances of Clooney and Lopez, who share undeniable chemistry, elevate the film, supported by a talented ensemble cast that brings Leonard's eccentric characters to life.
While Out of Sight is visually striking and often humorous, it's not without its flaws. Soderbergh's attempts to inject too much "coolness" into the film and a somewhat cliched ending may not resonate with all viewers. However, the film's overall quality and entertainment value make it a worthwhile watch that lingers in the viewer's memory.
RATING: 7/10 (+++)
(Note: This review was originally posted on the Usenet newsgroup rec.arts.films.reviews on June 23rd, 2004)
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