HOLLYWOOD—Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has now starred in two pictures where the title of the movie says it all. He first started in the picture “Faster” which talks about fast cars and now he stars in “Snitch,” a drama/action picture that follows a father’s journey to protect his son from going to prison.
If you come into the picture expecting a full-blown action flick, you’ll be greatly disappointed. This is not an action movie, it’s more of a dramatic thriller and it works. It allows Johnson who portrays John Matthews, the opportunity to showcase some dramatic flair as John Matthews, a father attempting to do whatever it takes to get his son out of prison for drug-trafficking. In order to do so, he’ll have to infiltrate a drug cartel’s inner group where every action, every word he states is being carefully watched.
It presents a frightening feeling for the moviegoer; just what would you do if you were placed in this same scenario. As a parent, we’d all risk our lives to protect our children; it’s a moral code, but what happens when it’s your life in danger as well. I liken “Snitch” to that clever suspense thriller where you kinda know how it will end, but as a spectator it’s an enthralling ride leading up to that climax.
The movie is based on a true story and see’s some nice supporting roles from Barry Pepper, as well as Susan Sarandon, the U.S. attorney prosecuting Matthews’ son. The woman is a beast; and not willing to let up unless Matthews can bring a criminal mastermind and drug lord portrayed by Benjamin Bratt to her. Bratt infuses a fear into a character that is not over-the-top. It’s those subtle moments and actions that make his presence a bit more frightening. He might not appear ruthless from first glance, but this is not a guy you’d want to double cross.
“Snitch” will not be garnering in Oscars for its work, but it mixes the right elements of dramatic flair and characters to draw in the viewer to a tale that is all about a father’s love for his son, no matter what the cost might be in the end.
By LaDale Anderson
