16 Blocks

This Bruce Willis/Mos Def buddy-movie is nothing more than a formula action flick, but the chemistry between the leads and knowing direction from Richard Donner help overcome the story's more implausible moments. Willis, sporting a heavy five-o'-clock shadow and prominent paunch, plays a burned-out, alcoholic NYPD detective assigned to escort a small-time hood (Def) to an appointment with a grand jury. Along the way, they're targeted by a hit-man, but the detectives who arrive as backup turn out to be behind the attack (namely, because the hood is testifying about dirty cops). What follows is an elaborate chase, with the two men managing a series of clever evasions and close-shave escapes (while bonding, natch), a few of which are clumsily comic while others are almost absurdly over-the-top (particularly a lengthy sequence featuring a high-jacked bus and some hostages). Still, while 16 Blocks may be no more than a popcorn movie, unlike many examples of the genre, it's an expertly crafted, enjoyable one. Recommended. [Note: Available in either widescreen or full screen versions, DVD extras include deleted scenes with commentary by director Richard Donner and writer Richard Wenk (20 min.), a seven-minute alternate ending, and trailers. Bottom line: a small extras package for a decent popcorn flick.] (F. Swietek)