Inside Man (***1/2)

Inside Man is one of the best studio films to be released in years, and certainly the best bank heist film since Quick Change. If you haven't seen that Bill Murray gem yet, go rent it now. I was surprised by how deft and comic this film was. Make no mistake, this is definitely a Spike Lee movie, but it's probably his most accessible and enjoyable film to date. He really nails the heightened atmosphere of a post-9/11 New York City, and all of the lead actors: Denzel, Jodie, and Clive have meaty, substantial roles to chew on. Kudos to the writer as well for fashioning some clever twists and a refreshing take on the genre. Exciting and intelligent, Inside Man is well worth a trip to the theater. Highly recommended.