The movie “Training Day” featuring Denzel Washington and Ethan Hawke is filled with action, humor, and excellent acting. I liked the movie very much. On a ten-point scale I would give it a seven. Generally, I prefer to watch movies in the comedy or drama genres, yet this movie kept my interest from the start to the very end. What I like most about the movie, was the plot, as well as Washington’s and Hawke’s skillful performances. As a matter of fact, throughout the movie the two characters open up to the viewer in a different light (as the movie unfolds). What I appreciated most about this movie is that from beginning until the end many unexpected twists and turns left me feeling surprised.
When I watch a movie, I like to observe how the main characters evolve. Throughout the movie Alonzo and Jake reveal themselves in numerous situations, some of which are bloody and scary, others funny. As a matter of fact, I found the plot surprising as it unrolled. Especially the fact that Alonzo was willing to betray his partner, Jake.
I found Washington’s and Hawke’s acting professional and pleasant to watch. Both of them performed their roles masterfully. Throughout the movie, Hawke performed the role of Jake with much skill. While, in the beginning, it may seem that Jake is much weaker than Alonzo (for instance, the scene where Alonzo manipulates him to inhale drugs portrays Jake as someone weak, one who will subside if pressured), in the course of the movie “the real Jake” shows up. The viewer sees him as someone who has a strong set of values that he will not give up.
As the scenario unfolds, we see Jake’s (played by Hawke) character from a multitude of angles. At first, anxious and willing to play by Alonzo’s rules, Jake is later revealed as someone with an extensive amount of gut. From the first scenes (when Jake is at home with his wife and child) and up until the very end of the movie, the viewer meets “the whole of” Jake, with his numerous emotions, fears, and choices. Such mastery in acting is of significant value.
