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Antwone Fisher (2002)

Rate: 10
Viewed: 6/03, 7/04, 3/07, 3/15

AntF
3/07: Once in a while, somebody will make a film that's inspiring and uplifting.

Arthur Penn did The Miracle Worker. Then, there was Rocky by John G. Avildsen at the hands of Sylvester Stallone. Later in the 80's, John G. Avildsen accomplished it again with Lean on Me along with Jim Sheridan's My Left Foot. Then, there were Hoop Dreams and Million Dollar Baby. To my surprise, an esteemed actor adds another to this list of impressive films, and it's Antwone Fisher by Denzel Washington for his directorial debut.

The wonderful introduction of the boy in his dream appears amateurishly conceived until it makes sense later. Then, the storytelling becomes polished to the point where it's ready to go deep into the core of Antwone's conflict. Strong feelings are brought out while Derek Luke and Denzel Washington turn in powerful performances as their characters try to unlock the mystery. Finally, the film is wrapped up with a beautiful ending.

Antwone Fisher is how I view Denzel Washington in terms of integrity and values. It serves his image well. Many scenes are so good that I'm moved. So, I'm inclined to say it's one of the best films I've seen in my life, and I hope to see another from Denzel Washington that's in the same vein.

All in all, Antwone Fisher may seem like a ripped-off black version of Good Will Hunting, but it's that good.

3/07: Antwone Fisher is an emotional picture with Derek Luke giving the most powerful performance of 2002.

All in all, Antwone Fisher is the best work Denzel Washington had done since Glory.