Assault on Precinct 13

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Split I A Solid Thriller That Can't Escape the Shadow of the Original The 2005 remake of Assault on Precinct 13, directed by Jean-François Richet, is a competent, high-stakes action thriller that delivers suspense and solid performances but ultimately pales in comparison to John Carpenter's gritty 1976 original. While it updates the premise with a fresh cast and polished production, it lacks the raw, minimalist charm that made the original a cult classic. Ethan Hawke delivers a commendable performance as Sgt. Jake Roenick, a burnt-out cop dealing with guilt and self-doubt. Hawke brings depth and vulnerability to the role, grounding the film in an emotional reality that contrasts with its over-the-top action. His chemistry with Laurence Fishburne, who plays the enigmatic and dangerous crime boss Marion Bishop, adds a layer of tension that keeps the story engaging. The updated plot shifts the setting to a snowbound Detroit police station, adding a claustrophobic atmosphere that works well for the film's premise. The siege by corrupt cops looking to silence Bishop creates plenty of high-octane moments, and the action sequences are slick and intense. However, the film leans heavily on Hollywood-style shootouts and explosions, sacrificing some of the original's understated tension and bleak tone. One of the remake's shortcomings is its inability to replicate the gritty, no-frills essence of Carpenter's version. The original thrived on its simplicity-a small group of characters facing overwhelming odds in a stark, almost apocalyptic setting. The 2005 version, while entertaining, feels more formulaic and less daring in comparison. Final Thoughts: Assault on Precinct 13 (2005) is an enjoyable action-thriller that benefits from strong performances by Ethan Hawke and Laurence Fishburne. It's stylish and engaging but lacks the raw power and innovative spirit of the original. Fans of the genre will find much to appreciate, but purists may feel it doesn't fully live up to its predecessor's legacy. Rating: 6/10 A solid effort with compelling performances and gripping action, but it can't escape the long shadow cast by the 1976 classic. Rated 3.5/5 Stars •  Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 12/31/24 Full Review Daniel C. M It's 45-60 minutes are actually really good, then it quickly devolves by the end of the second act. It's characters, full of potential, quickly devolve into cliche ridden, generic and unlikeable fodder; pretty much everyone outside of Fishburne is very bad. Also features predictable and also cliche ridden story with action that also starts of very good but devolves into subpar and redudant around the same timeframe i mentioned before. Rated 1.5/5 Stars •  Rated 1.5 out of 5 stars 01/25/25 Full Review Cees T Not as good as Home Alone, Leon, and probably the original, but has a nice custom rap ending. 6.4/10 - Okay. Rated 3/5 Stars •  Rated 3 out of 5 stars 05/14/24 Full Review Topi L It ain't the original, but Hawke and Fishburne are very good in this fine maid crime thriller. Rated 3.5/5 Stars •  Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 08/03/23 Full Review Gareth v A popcorn action movie that doesn't break any new ground. Not great, not bad, just average. Rated 3/5 Stars •  Rated 3 out of 5 stars 06/18/23 Full Review steve d Well made, but the characters aren't likable enough to care. Rated 3/5 Stars •  Rated 3 out of 5 stars 03/30/23 Full Review Read all reviews

Assault on Precinct 13

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