Collateral - The Midpoint Collision

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

Collateral is one of my favorite movies, and perhaps the only movie shot on this early-2000s style digital format that I think suits the movie. Where do you stand on the film vs. digital debate? And what movie should I look at next?

[@HundredMillionViews]

Never thought about why it looks so different than say, a film shot on 70mm. Thanks for the insight!

[@kalashnikov1997]

Please do a Charlie Kaufman screenplay

[@elmojedburgh3481]

Lessons from the Screenplay Thanks For The Video And Can You Talk About Prisoners Or No Country For Old Men !!!

[@victorthomas5041]

Film

[@johngoldsworthy7135]

Magnolia! That'd be awesome. Great vids, man. Huge fan of your work.

[@Stiert]

Its not even about the story for me with Collateral. I just like hanging out in the movie. some movies make you feel good just chillin with the film for whatever reason.

[@JPM2k22]

I get ya

[@beaustoioff6182]

Gives you that night owl vibe cruising around LA

[@twobyfour]

At home with a story, immersed. Great comment.

[@BipoIarbear]

Never thought of it that way 😁

[@joshwilliams6517]

John p agree. I just be having the movie on in the house sometimes

[@rachorachev8905]

Vincent : [Staring Max down] "She carried you in her womb for nine months." I think the fact that Vincent's mother died during child birth, is why he shows Max's mother so much respect and attention in the hospital scene.

[@Dziaji]

Good point. That's like the first ounce of humanity that Vincent shows, and at first he tries to hide it behind "seeming normal to not get caught", but then when he says that quote, you can tell that he actually means it.

[@vaid.]

@@Dziaji great observation

[@joshlimi]

This is one of the *BEST* movies ever illustrating Los Angeles at night

[@The_Isaiahnator]

You should also check out Nightcrawler. There were most likely some Mann influences there.

[@hello2jello4mellow34]

Don't forget Drive by Winding Refn starring Gosling, Mulligan and so many more great performances.

[@davidlean1060]

agreed. Beautifully and lovingly shot in clear as crystal digital.

[@MindFlowersDotNet]

Other genres but Swingers and Die Hard also do some justice to the LA night.

[@davidlean1060]

Swingers is not about the city though, it's the loosers trying to change their luck it focuses on. I never think about the city when watching Swingers, because I don't see it as loving filmed as Mann would. Die Hard...great movie, obviously, but how can it be a homage to a city when the city is only a back drop to the story inside the tower? It could of been set in any city.

[@slamrobot6584]

Michael Mann doesn't ever get enough credit.

[@CaesarCassius]

No he gets way too much

[@DamanKingBear]

Slam Robot658 Michael Mann made this???

[@jmorrisfilms]

@@CaesarCassius Bullshit! HEAT!

[@bd9531]

I think you mean Stuart Beattie doesn't get enough credit...

[@thomasswafford250]

@@jmorrisfilms and Manhunter.

[@chance_ondriezek99]

Finally someone talks about how great this movie is. It doesn't get the amount of attention it deserves, if you ask me.

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

I hadn't realized how old it (and I) is! In my mind it's a recent movie...but not so much!

[@Dziaji]

It's been my favorite movie for like 18 years. I've never heard anyone else so much as mention it. It is criminally underrated.

[@1994mrmysteryman]

Collateral is one of Cruise's finest performances and criminally underrated. The man is incredibly versatile and such a fine actor. When people bash him for being a bad actor, I always show them this film.

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

Yeah-I feel like he's always Tom Cruise (he's not like a chameleon or anything), but he also manages to believably embody his characters. Like, I believe this is what Tom Cruise would be like as a hitman. And his performances are always very generous.

[@OK-1K1]

Cruise was in good hands with Michael Mann who was able to frame him in such way that it's both elevated, yet grounded. To me it's his best role, and probably Mann's best film. Collateral is a lightning in a bottle. Right people, right story, right time.

[@starsareangels]

I haven't heard anyone bash Tom Cruise for being a bad actor.

[@joeodonnell921]

Think folk forget just how good he can be I wish he would drop the action flicks some are enjoyable and impressive for his age but can we get this tom cruise the one that gave us born on the 4th of July,magnolia & lions for lambs.

[@salehjamaleddine7468]

People bash him for being a Scientologist

[@joshuadamato215]

You didn't touch on Maxs interplay with Annie which is a key point of Maxs character progression to fulfillment of inner self. At the beginning of the film when she gets into the taxi he manages to get her card, but he is reluctant to act on it and give her a call. Later on in the film when she is in danger he fully realizes his potential and saves her, completing his character arc.

[@brianbitner]

We touch on this a bit in the related blog post - not so much on Annie but a bit on how she plays into Max's overall arc: www.lessonsfromthescreenplay.com/blog/2018/4/25/collateralan-equal-and-opposite-reaction

[@JPM2k22]

Beautiful

[@willinwoods]

@@brianbitner I'm quite late to this game, but just wanted to add a small - but as I see it crucial - bit that is often missed even in in-depth analyses like this; One important reason for Vincent to keep Max alive: He wants/needs to frame Max for the murders, expose him and exploit his presence, in order to stay in the shadows himself, nameless and faceless. Max has done this before, as the one cop figures out, mentioning another cab driver flipping out and going on a killing spree... So his role in Max' character development serves a more devious purpose, sparking a rebellion that will help sell the story about Max going of the rails and becoming a maniacal killer. I'm not saying Vincent's motivation is ALL about this, mind you, but to me Vincent comes across as way more calculating, more stone cold surface, than people tend to give him credit for. (It also mixes well with Cruise's approach to the role, moonlighting with UPS(?) deliveries, to see if he still could pass as a nobody, even at the peak of his career.) It took me the hindsight of a second viewing to pick up on this, though, and a willingness to reevaluate what I thought I knew about how the plot unfolds.

[@Rob_-_]

@@willinwoods I always felt that Vincent kept Max alive for a different reason. They share a connection that isn't spoken, but is implied. You see it come out when Vincent saves Max during the club shootout. At the same time, that connection and the conversations with Max begin to crack Vincent's facade, as evidenced when Vince has a brief moment of feeling, where he stumbles after killing the Jazz musician. At least that's how I look at it, not saying you're wrong.

[@willinwoods]

@@Rob_-_ I can see your point, and again: I'm not saying Vincent's motivation is ALL about manipulation and pinning the blame on Max; but I do think that the relation evolves way slower than one might be lead to think upon first viewing. E g when Vincent forces Max to tell his boss off, I really don't think that he cares all that much about Max yet; he's still more like callously exploiting Max's dreams and ambitions -- and not so much "shaking up Max's neat little box" out of ... idk, compassion? or even for sh*ts and giggles, like a nihilistic psychopath surely coulda/woulda. No, at that time I'm sure it's still just a part of his regular MO. Pinpointing exactly when that "oh cr*p" moment really hits Vincent first; when he realises that he'll have to struggle to keep the upper hand -- that could easily call for discussions much longer than the movie itself.

[@MidTierVillain]

Tom Cruise was a great villain, man, he was so cold, calculated, and charismatic.. I hoped he take on more roles being a villain after that movie, instead of the occasional hero.

[@ntbored7727]

The whole time I was just rooting for him. In the end, I can’t call him a full villain.

[@davidGOLIATH4141]

this might be his finest performance - memorable movie in many ways, thanks LFTS for the video, and thanks DarkSide for the insightful comment. Maybe he will read this and start playing more bad guys! Or, I am in film school... maybe I will write a bad guy part with him in mind! Thanks for the inspiration!

[@highkey4316]

he definitely was a full villain bro what are you talking about

[@Andrew-jw4vc]

Collateral is one of my favorite movies, and you pointed out something I hadn't thought about before, how the protagonist and antagonist are in near constant contact with each other. That really is a pretty radically different setup than most movies. I just rewatched Heat tonight, so crazy how one director can make both a sprawling epic with many interwoven characters, then less than a decade later make such an intimate film that is essentially a dual character study

[@davidlean1060]

Funnily enough though, I think Vincent and Max only sit face to face once the entire film, when Vincent sits on the train bench to die. Other than that, Vincent is either sitting behind Max or to his side.

[@TheSchaef47]

Funny you should mention Heat, a movie where the two main characters only share two scenes together. Michael Mann tells both stories brilliantly but uses very different approaches to his characters.

[@miialamia1653]

Collateral is, I think, the first "adult" movie I saw in a theater together with my school friends only (without an adult present), after moving to a new school district and having been generally pretty disinterested in movies during my teens up to that point. I'm not even sure how we got in to the theater, because all of us were 14-15yo, but we did and had front row seats in a rather empty theatre, given how it was in the middle of the week. But holy shit, the movie made such an impression on me. I sat there mesmerized, because it was nothing like what I might've expected. Moody, intimate and thoughtful (yet still pretty cool/exciting to a 15yo). It really shook me and remains one of my all time favorite movies. I doubt any of my buddies that I went to see it with thought much about it even the next day, but it has stayed with me all these years and I've returned to it countless times. I even think it perhaps in part shaped me as a person growing up - to not end up like Max, but rather to seize the day and "just do" instead of making excuses. Great screenplay, great acting, great cinematography, great film.

[@harpiyon]

Great story bro. I think there are much worse films to get inspired from.

[@Arcueid_Brunestud]

fellow monster musume fan

[@Dina8485]

Even when I haven't seen the movie I watch your videos. You make me want to watch the movies you analyze.

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

Awesome! You should :P

[@Dina8485]

I paused this so I can watch it lol

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

haha

[@andrewt9128]

Collateral is super solid and it's quality is all screenplay. Everything else is done well (shooting, edit, performances etc) but the script is supremely capable and ultimately is the element that makes the movie shine most.

[@gregterrible]

Adina McCray you have to watch this movie then you will have a batter understanding

[@TheNobodysInn]

This movie is what made me obsessed with film making and particularly camera work. I have studied it and watched it over and over and it’s so nice to see a fresh analytical view on it. Another fantastic video Michael. Well done sir!

[@MalaysianChopsticks]

I love MM’s films. Making the actor train and be proficient in his role rather than winging it is always my favourite. The alley scene is what I live for. Sicario, Wind River.

[@MindFlowersDotNet]

Mann has a realism that is appreciated by few and duplicated by even fewer. His "Heat" stands as a testament. Perhaps only John Wick (albeit more stylized) holds a candle.

[@Andrew-jw4vc]

Mann's dedication to realism combined with Cruise's commitment to doing everything possible that he can to prepare for a role is what created Vincent, one of the best movie villains ever put on film

[@MovieJunkieOfficial]

Mate, you break down these films the exact way I experience them. When I try to explain my love of film I struggle so much. I now just recommend your videos to my friends to show the simplicities of understanding characters and how dialogue makes the movie. I adore what you do my friend. Keep at it, stay awesome brother.

[@part4963]

ok

[@paolothorpe1461]

@@part4963 no

[@part4963]

@@paolothorpe1461 hello

[@paolothorpe1461]

@@part4963 wassup

[@part4963]

@@paolothorpe1461 good

[@baaaldur]

Ayyyy. I really like this movie. It's underrated as hell.

[@redlightmax]

+rudlab This movie's so great, I got my username from a line of dialogue in it.

[@nalbisgames]

Ah yes this film, I only watched it this year while studying film, it was mentioned in one of the textbooks we had with a long talk about the choices and decisions made during production. They practically innovated LED light technology working on this film since they used an earlier version of LED to light their faces in the cab. Then they also originally set the film in New York but the director really wanted to capture the feeling of the night life of LA and make LA a character in the film itself. Pretty big deal in terms of digital filmmaking since it’s all shot at night which was a practical choice on their part. So I think watching it with the knowledge of the production side of the film really made me enjoy it as more than just a generic action film.

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

Yeah, the behind-the-scenes for this film are great. And living in LA made me appreciate how much he really did capture the feel here.

[@LikeStoriesofOld]

Another great entry Michael! It always amazes me how you can take these relatively simple elements of storytelling and turn them into clear and genuinely insightful videos. Keep it up and film schools will become a thing of the past ;)

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

Thanks Tom! Back at you ;)

[@WenBilson]

Well if it isn't LSOO. I'm still in awe of your Gladiator video. That was a marvellous piece of work. You should be proud of the work yourself and LFTS do, it's a huge inspiration to myself and many others. Keep it up. xx

[@ShivavihS]

Good to know that two of my favourite youtubers are pals 😊

[@amadousef846]

Drop the O. Just LSO. It’s cleaner.

[@faibabernard]

This is one of my favourite crime films of all time... I've watched over 5times and guess what, I'd watch again and again... To have u do what u do best on this, is nothin' short of greatness... WeLL done and keep up the oddLy good work and UniversaL AccLaimed greatness wouLd be urs for the takin'... NonetheLess, I'd Like to see you anaLyse a Tarantino ScreenpLay and #Birdman(the Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)

[@Skyswindler]

Tom cruise's best role

[@vinigmoura]

I dont like the movie but agree with you

[@brentminick1]

Rare role for him and he thrived. This character versus say Jerry Maguire shows how great cruise is his versatility and screen presence.

[@gastonibarlucea]

@Andrew P Velasco meh Rainman maybe?

[@gooeylemur2859]

Les grossman

[@tiaaaron3278]

Magnolia is his greatest. He played Frank to perfection.

[@MicoDossun]

I think this is something cool that I realized on rewatch of Black Panther. Every character exists as a facet of different questions that T'Challa faces. Traditionalism vs modernity, building walls to protect your own vs an obligation to save everyone and many more issues I'm not smart enough to put into words. Shuri, Nakia, Okoye, Killmonger, M'Baku, W'kabi. They all express examples of what you mention in this video that provide different facets of what builds the T'Challa we see at the end of the movie.

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

Absolutely!

[@laurenbi]

I think that’s a testament to how well the story is crafted: every character is a variation on a theme

[@aggad16]

Jamie Foxx played this character perfectly.

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

Yes-he's so good in this.

[@WJstudios04]

So did Tom Cruise

[@zacheryrodgers6983]

God.. Foxx is very good in this movie, but the lack of Cruise love is ridiculous. He should have least got an Oscar nod.

[@brentminick1]

That scene with pinkett in the beginning was electric even though seems not much happening. I totally agree with you on foxx in this film

[@tiaaaron3278]

Foxx wouldn't have been half as good if it hadn't been for Tom Cruise's powerful presence.

[@gearhead1162]

Collateral and Heat are two of my favorite movies! Plus, this was a great analysis. Keep 'em coming!!!

[@TECTONICSMASH]

I actually watched both of these recently and...let's just say I liked Collateral a lot better

[@micahsayler1173]

You are my favorite KZbinr and this video did not disappoint!!! Collateral is horrifically underrated and I’m so happy you decided to break it down a little bit!

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

Thanks Micah!

[@rogerkincaid931]

My second favorite of Michael Mann's. Heat remains number one.

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

I mean, Heat is a real classic.

[@MajorKeys714]

Indeed. Heat is a powerful film & I've watched it 20 times, at least. But there are parts I think belabor the point too neatly, like those scenes that are meant to show how the crook and the cop, their crews, are more alike than not, the two dinner party scenes: I also no longer watch it the final scenes, not past the point DeNiro takes care of Waingro. Why? Cuz I wanted it to end differently

[@redlightmax]

+Roger Kincaid Heat had some forehead-slapping moments, like... ...the cops stopping Chris Shiherlis (Val Kilmer) at the stakeout to check his ID without knowing what he looks like. WTF? I guess that bank-heist-gone-wrong near the end makes up for it though.

[@konstantinosstag6436]

And yet Thief is arguably his best film or a close second to Heat

[@drlee2]

@akshay satish Totally agree with this. Heat has so many characters that it kind of dilutes it. And I know I'll get flamed for this, but I frankly don't like either Pacino or DeNiro in that movie, or at least I'll say that I don't think it's close to either of those acting legends' best performances. Cruise and Foxx's dialogue, interplay, and chemistry makes Collateral work. It's really Cruise's best film performance and Foxx's performance put him on the map in terms of being taken seriously as an actor. Also, unlike Heat, Collateral has just the right amount of supporting characters all of whom leave an impression: Fanning, Annie, Daniel, Max's mother, Felix. The combination of the script, direction, acting, cinematography, action scenes, atmosphere, and message make it one of the best movies I've seen in the last 20 years.

[@laurenbi]

This was such a different role for Tom Cruise, this was the only time he’s played a villain, right?

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

I think you could argue that his role in Magnolia is villainous.

[@xensonar9652]

He was really believable in this. It was quite a subtle character too. The character might have been shallow in less capable hands.

[@laveine8949]

In Tropic Thunder too, but it’ s more like a douchbag than a true vilain (sorry for the mistakes I’m French).

[@laurenbi]

Jay Wilson I agree, especially bc I see his face and think “bombastic action hero”. He clearly has a wider ability. Pity he seems to stick to only that now.

[@aamarkhan7448]

Lauren Bennett I think he'll branch out into deeper roles later into his career

[@orangej5005]

Mann has proven to be one of the most talented filmmakers in modern culture. His films seem to learn more and more about themselves as his characters do, anf he learns more about the art with every masterpiece he constructs. I've certainly learned more than my fair share of techniques and tools from his uses. Thanks for the awesome video!! New content gives me the will I need to live!!

[@TomEyeTheSFMguy]

I just finished this movie, and by God was it amazing. Action, tension, character, all there, all very well done.

[@Dziaji]

don't forget philosophy.

[@TomEyeTheSFMguy]

@@Dziaji yeah that too

[@seen921]

One of my all time favorites. Brilliant character development. Thanks for this breakdown. and good to know you broke down Vincent's character as well. I'll check it out. This story blends exposition beautifully and POSSIBLE SPOILER ALERT--POSSIBLY the only disappointment was the rather Hollywood ending. Great work as always

[@Quotenwagnerianer]

I loved the movie when it came out. I was in my mid late 20's and kind of the same situation like Max. It helped me realize that my struggle was not mine alone, yet that I had to face it alone, like we all do. Made me sad in a way to realize this, but it also helped me cope. For me it was the scene with the coyote. That was the climax.

[@michaelblaes9847]

Collateral and the Death of Neon - It's on KZbin and is awesome. It shows how drastically the lighting effects are and how the digital format was used to give a movie it's very unique feel. It's a great watch and I highly recommend it.

[@Bariom_dome]

I love how you do the intros. They always give me goosebumps. "Let's take a look at Collateral "

[@chattycathydoll]

The title of the film is well chosen too as Vincent is the collateral for Max becoming who he has to, or is meant to. Without Vincent Max would be stuck in the same patterns of thought and behaviour, he's his catalyst for change.

[@andrewhoward6946]

This is interesting. I usually think of characters getting this moment right at the climax, but I'll have to rewatch some movies to see how many have the change in the middle. Good video as always!

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

As I say in the video, it's not that the character has fully changed, but some kind of realization strikes them at the midpoint. If you jump to the midpoint of most movies, something big is happening that changes the protagonist's plans-emotionally and externally.

[@JFD99]

That transition from video to advertisement was so smooth. Simply amazing.

[@manners316]

Classic film. Fantastic breakdown.

[@rickkassner4555]

Love how you say they are opposites because they are. I think Vincent's absence of humanity draws him to Max throughout the movie, who is full of humanity. Ironically this causes Vincent to lose his guard while in a way hardening Max enough to fight back.

[@wew187]

Another excellent discussion. I just want to say that this was an underrated performance by Tom Cruise.

[@kamenwaticlients]

This reminds me why I love this movie so much. I like to think Vincent and John trained together.

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

Ha!

[@iv0rysh0es39]

A pivotal entry into the Yellow Light series, alongside: Taxi Driver, Drive, and Nightcrawler.

[@WJstudios04]

The Big LeBoschski Fight Club

[@Kevin32001]

What do you mean Yellow Light series?

[@dane9027]

Absolutely

[@Biring1]

Would love to see you tackle a foreign language film like something from Michael Haneke, Krystof Kieslowski or Pedro Almodovar! Great content as always, Michael. One of my favorite channels on youtube.

[@onastick2411]

I like the way fate plays a hand as well. He nearly doesn't pick up Vincent, he moves on to another cab, while Max is contemplating the card of the attorney, (who happens to be on Vincent's hit list, which gives the story a tautology). If Vincent had gone onto another cab, how would things have turned out for Max then, zoned out on his lounger hypnotised by daytime TV? Kismet. I like how things strive for balance: as Max changes, so does Vincent, he sees something in Max (perhaps cosmic coincidence?) that makes him contemplate the void within himself. Balance, balance is the key. As Max changes so does Vincent, as if something is striving to keep things in line. It's interesting that for all of Vincent's cynical nihilism, he's quick to call up cosmic forces as a possible explanation for things. He might be right, but it doesn't feel right, the empty space inside. A sly little aside, never mentioned, when contemplating Vincent's amoral view of life, is his admission that he's only been in the private sector for five years, implying he's been killing for the public sector (governments) for longer than that; probably something that fuels his cynical attitude, killing for dubious political reasons is fine? But, Vincent left his mark, think anyone will notice? Yes I think they will, for a while anyway.

[@blaisetelfer8499]

Not only do Foxx and Cruise play off each other incredibly well, but both actors are playing against type in these roles, which to me makes it doubly impressive.

[@iciclie]

Hey Michael, Can you do an analysis of a bad or a disappointing movie? I’m really curious about what the movie did wrong, what it could have improved and how little changes can impact a story drastically. Would be really interesting!

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

I'm always on the look out for the right film for this. I don't want to unfairly blame somebody, because a lot of things can go wrong in the making of a movie, but I also know a "what-doesn't-work" can be useful.

[@samjohnston9607]

Personally I'd find a look into passion projects that don't quite pull it off very interesting, something like Mute or The Book of Henry. Films that really meant a great deal to the writers, and how they just miss putting their meanings and ideas out there

[@Someguy029]

I love Collateral so much! So happy to see a discussion of it here. I remember seeing it blind, never having seen any trailers for it, and being shocked when my expectations of Cruise's character were subverted. Each act of the film feels like a different genre, and yet they all blend together perfectly.

[@henrik6754]

Thank you for this video. Collateral is my favorite movie of all time and i have watched it countless times. But you still pointed out stuff i have never noticed before like how Max quotes Vincent when he meets Felix. Loved the video.

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

Awesome! Thank you Not-Ice-Cube. :P

[@davidlean1060]

The fact that Heat begins with a train entering a station and Collateral finishes with a train leaving a station has been mentioned many times on many threads, but I have never seen it mentioned that Heat's final scene takes place at the end of an airport runway and, yep, Collateral begins with the sound of a jet touching down and the first thing we see is Vincent walking through LAX.

[@zachryder3150]

Holy shit, how did I not notice?

[@xingcat]

Collateral is a great film...I do think the trope of "amoral monster teaches a man deep lessons about how to be a better person," which I think has been overused of late. The antagonist or anti-hero is basically the hero of most critically-acclaimed stories these days, in that if it's a trope that's usurped, it seems more fresh to me. I've asked before, but I would love to see your take on films that just turn story structure on its head, things like Jeanne Dielman, 23 Commerce Quay, 1080 Brussels, or Run, Lola, Run, or Limbo, where the audience's expectations for what a story is are just ignored, and yet it's not a non-narrative movie at all.

[@andy4an]

run lola run would be a phenominal one... but sadly, this is "lessons from the screenplay", and our host probably doesn't read German fluently, creating a problem. I suppose he could make an exception, and grab the lessons direct from the subtitles, but that would be an exception. my pick for the first foreign languge film would be "life is beautiful"

[@narcspector]

weesh is that the like, "hand drawn stick figure" type one? It was on Netflix for a while I think, I loved it

[@garthlyon]

Collateral is another master class (after Heat) from Michael Mann. Mastery of every detail including the ‘counter-casting’ of Cruise in the bad guy role (this reminds me of Henry Fonda being cast as the baddie in Once Upon A Time in the West by Sergei Leone).

[@InfiniteCuriosity]

Hi, I am new here, was just binge watching your videos man they are amazing. Very few videos you have made but it feels good to see that there are still amazing channels which focus on quality over quantity. I love your insights on dark knight, memento, true detective, se7en, black swan, whiplash and gone girl. You passion for understanding cinema is apparent in your talks. Keep up the amazing work. I am passionate about making creepy/mysterious videos on true stories, hope I can match the level of your passion one day. Love and peace, ciao 💛

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

Thank you! I really appreciate that.

[@TheHelghast1138]

Well after reading that comment, which I totally agree with, you just earned yourself a subscriber! 😎🙂😎

[@RadityaNugraheni2405]

Just finished watch the movie. I absolutely agree with you. It's not a typical suspense movie, I feel it almost like a human drama with a touch of action. Both Jamie and Tom carried the role perfectly. We can see the subtle change of expressions in their face, reacted to the opposite. The last scene on the train also showed that they obviously didn't want to kill each other; Vincent only wanted to finish the job, while Max protected her. I think that when Max sat down in front of Vincent was the balance point between them. Really love your videos, they give an interesting point of view aside from what common audience see.

[@abecallard442]

Love the use of the "confined space" narrative device. Also used in movies like Saw and Panic Room. It makes the characters interact.

[@LateCodOficial]

Beautiful video as always.

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

Thank you!

[@m4x1coo59]

+1

[@shoegaze_bitch1506]

Tru

[@kkonam]

que sucede senpai? te noto desanimado

[@0360Anto]

Que sucede senpai? te noto desanimado

[@GuillermoZS]

It’s incredible how this inner-self character rises in real life when people has to cross through dramatic situations... loved your analysis and the plot concept

[@WJstudios04]

Guillermo Zulueta Sánchez Fight Club for an example

[@brandonprieto9202]

Frank Darabont and Michael Mann also contributed to this great screenplay. Just throwing it out there. Keep up the great work!

[@ibrews]

YES! THANK YOU, Michael. I requested this film after your very first video essay and you delivered in spades. Thanks for all that you do!!

[@rossleeson8626]

Also the photography is amazing. You get that cold feeling before sunrise from the photography. It's amazing.

[@ലോഫിഷ്]

You just made me watch another great movie

[@demetriusdion286]

Three books I highly recommend: Inside Story: the Power of the Transformational Arc by Dara Marks, Into the Woods by John Yorke, and last but not least, The Intent to Live by Larry Moss, this last one is a book on Acting, but it will teach how to get into the heads of your characters: their facades and inner natures.

[@francescoramicani7037]

The man is incredibly versatile and such a fine actor. When people bash him for being a bad actor, I always show them this film. Saw all movies with he on boxxy software

[@drlee2]

I recently came to the conclusion that Collateral is in my top 10 films of all time. This movie just struck me in a different way from virtually all other Hollywood output since 2000, so there's nothing in the last 20 years I'd rank ahead of it. It's like a perfect movie to me in almost every way. Perfect runtime (2 hours) with zero filler or wasted scenes, perfectly cast, brilliant script, great performances (including the best performance of Tom Cruise's career), flawless editing, realistic cinematography, perfect score and musical choices, and phenomenal direction by Michael Mann. But it's the fact that all of these things collide to form a tightly woven, intricate story with amazing depth and nuance that makes it a masterpiece. There's so much going on in Collateral that it demands multiple re-watches, but at the same time a person can enjoy this film as an entertaining, fast-paced action thriller. Collateral is basically an existential film with a message to not waste your life, but it's never pretentious or preachy about it's message. People praise Mann's Heat to the heavens, but that film is 3 hours of boredom with flimsy characterization. I basically just want to get to the big action shootout scene in Heat because everything else feels like filler and I need something to break the malaise, while with Collateral, I am enjoying every aspect of the film to the point that when the big shootout happens, it's just another great scene that flows within a perfectly told story. Heat was loaded with an all-star cast and felt like there were way too many characters. Collateral kept the main cast to a minimum and even the bit parts were superbly done. Every actor hit their mark in this film and I've seen some suspect acting in even some of the best films. EDIT: Also, I like the fact that Collateral doesn't have a prequel or a sequel. It's so special and unique that it doesn't require one. There are already too many great films that have been low-key diluted by pumping out shallow sequels.

[@WenBilson]

Collateral was my introduction to Michael Mann. I saw it during a very formative stage in my life, so it left quite the impression on me. This is a brilliant insight into the importance of structuring character development. I'd love to see you tackle my favourite Mann film The Insider (when a conflict between two protagonists emerges - perhaps?) Well done, Michael! Love your editing. xx

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

Thanks! I haven't seen The Insider in years! I should revisit it.

[@WenBilson]

An absolute must. I'd love to beat you to punch of making a video about it, but alas, I'd be hard pressed to make a video as refined as your own.

[@MajorKeys714]

The Insider deserved all kinds of awards & Russell Crowe was fantastic in it. The pressure his character was under came from all sides--the tobacco company, his wife, & even the friendly fire of the 60 Minutes producer, Lowell. The relentless build up of intensity reminded me of the film Prince of the City; it leaves you exhausted at the end.

[@ryanrobotham7696]

Collateral is a fairly recent find for me and it has quickly jumped up into my favourites for pretty much all the reasons you said. Max is so relatable, because we've all known or met someone like him or even been like him, if only to a point. I can definitely relate to his lack of drive (sorry) and fear of failure, especially since, as Vincent points out, all it would have took was a down-payment on a Lincoln Car. It wouldn't have been the overnight success that Max clearly wanted, but it would've got the ball rolling. I don't know, I think I discovered this channel just before your Breaking Bad video, but I imagine it took a while before it gained the traction it has now. Keep doing what you're doing, can't wait for next time.

[@andrewpawlowski8809]

Every time you upload I want to get back to writing my pilot episode for a tv series. I’m so close to being done.

[@freebird1721]

I love all the people who like this movie, it's a masterpiece... That wolf's scene...

[@noodlesnchill]

Considering the quality of every video, you sure release these very promptly! Amazing.

[@JoseBYOB]

I want to say something unique and flattering about your analysis. But everyone here has covered everything I could think of. Great video, bro.

[@Filo_Red]

Awwwww YES, one of my favourites of the genre

[@ruskibeaner5983]

Oh my Lord that scene where he snaps is so well put together and so satisfying. I know it happens in other movies, but this one gotta take the gold medal.

[@NikolaiPike]

I started watching this video when I paused it, watched the movie Collateral, and came back to finish it. I think your screenplay analysis is incredible and you have inspired me to include many of the things you've showcased in your videos into my own screenplays. Great entry! I look forward to the next one! Also, what do you make of the coyote scene?

[@Michael-ks3rl]

Love this screenplay, learning a lot about how I can write a script.. it can have a character of its own, doesn't always have to just be the blueprints for the movie.

[@michelleelise5237]

Lessons from the Screenplay + Collateral = Happy Friday

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

I love simple equations!

[@CashanovaXTREME]

Absolutely brilliant. You should be a director and writer for MMP if you aren’t already. The deepest parts of these characters you’ve brought out into the open, and even intelligent people would miss all of these ironies

[@TheDukeOfTumwater]

This could have easily been a bog-standard, forgettable action/thriller, and I think you perfectly articulated what elevates it above that. It’s screenplay is structured in a way that gives its protagonist a well-developed arc and it’s antagonist acts as the perfect foil to him.

[@peterfrank3365]

Michael Mann's earlier films have great influences to my works, particularly the character arcs and how the films are shot; how his stylishness are more than just "styles".

[@criztu]

Max got his revenge on Collateral eventually, I've seen pictures on google, with him dating Collateral's ex wife.

[@proudfoot.proudfoot]

I am working hard to advance my writing technique from sitcom structure to feature length! You & John Truby are helping me a great deal right now. THANK YOU

[@arthurcastellano_dp]

I would LOVE to have you do one for "Crash" The complexity of merging multiple story lines.

[@picasso114]

One of the best examples of character change on youtube. Such a helpful video

[@majajajajajaty]

So glad you've done a video on collateral, one of my all time favourites, great job as always man 👍

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

Thanks Matt!

[@majajajajajaty]

Lessons from the Screenplay No worries man, can't wait for the next video !

[@streampunksheep]

I love you man. You have no idea how much I appreciate your commentary on screenplays.

[@chikonazzz]

The reaction Max has at 9:47 is just hillarious

[@joeyo4163]

LOL I thought that was Steve Urkel...

[@freebee8221]

Iv always loved this movie. The scene where they see the wolf/dog and the song shadow of the sun is playing is so awesome. Crazy chemistry between Tom and jaime. Michael mann is a genius.

[@onnpogi7561]

Its been a long time man, a LONG TIME. Lol good to have you again bro. I miss your vids man.

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

I mean...it's *only* been 30 days! :P

[@KaseyAtkins]

thank you for this. Collateral is also one of my favorite movies of all time. I have watched this movie countless times.

[@rexlongfellow]

Thank you! Collateral is awesome.

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

It is!

[@bluest1524]

A perfect rendering and damn good explanation of something I tell people all the time. That Vincent was a kind of dark angel of change and transformation for Max: pushing him and cracking the shell of facade. Thank you for this excellent work.

[@dynamicfiction6158]

Hey! I just wanted to say thank you for all of your videos! You inspired me so much to make my own videos and I just uploaded a video, 'Rewriting Red Sparrow'. Thanks again!

[@kaseyahlstrom9189]

One of your best vids yet. Makes me realize how smart these writers are.

[@Miimu5210]

Dunno if you've done the 1997 film Gattaca, but that'd be cool. It was one of the first sci fi films I saw.

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

I *still* haven't seen it! I can believe it, I've tried to watch it so many times but something always gets in the way.

[@Miimu5210]

Haha, I doubt too many people can sit down for an hour and willingly go through a movie from the 90's. It's a highly misunderstood film though, and I'm hoping someone will do it justice. A film about identity and the struggle against a preordained destiny.

[@Shaelobia]

Lessons from the Screenplay I sincerely hope you do see it! If for no other reason than to dissect it as you did this movie. Your analysis of this movie and children of men are literally two of my favorite KZbin videos of all time. As an aspiring writer it's enlightening to see the inner workings of stories be unraveled for the audience

[@clarar2547]

Lessons from the Screenplay fully agree that you should make time to watch this film.

[@BigZ7337]

It's probably in my top 10 films of all times, you should definitely check it out.

[@aleksisuuronen5969]

This is easily one of the best Cruise roles, it suites him perfectly. I also love the look and it's partly because it fools you not to see Tom Cruise but Vincent since usually you are so used to watch Tom Cruise as Tom Cruise in his movies. It wouldn't work half as good without the grey hair and stuff. At the time Colleteral came out it wasn't really like that but after it he made himself the spectacle he is. I don't know how well he would work say in a drama in really heavy chatacter role anymore. Maybe we will see someday.

[@CESSKAR]

You mention the midpoint at the midpoint of the video.

[@jordanpowell9504]

Great work as always. Collateral has always been a favorite of mine.

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

Thanks! Me too.

[@josed.vargas3961]

You gave me an idea.

[@andy4an]

wow! back when I watched this movie, I didn't realize it was a facade until Vincent explicitly called him on it! i love that there were hints that there was a facade before I noticed. which is the better way to watch a movie? 1) without general screenplay knowledge, being lead through the story without guessing where it is going, so you are surprised at the plot points, without being blindsided by them 2) with a sharp eye for the hints, so you can predict the path of the film? the former seems more entertaining. the latter seems more satisfying.

[@matthewgrinder]

Always look forward to your videos. Keep it up.

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

Thanks Matt!

[@gazinggoat5869]

This movie was already awesome, but you just made it beautiful! You always have an illuminating take on films and I'm truly appreciative about your work. I'm a struggling screenwriter myself and every one of your videos brings me closer to the final aha that will allow my abilities to blossom. Thank you!

[@ty_teynium]

I loved this one! This one is so underrated!

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

Thanks!

[@nayannmartinelli300]

Collateral is such a great movie. I wouldn't think it possible to wring so much tension from a fair simply setup (cabbie driving around a hitman), but Mann makes it look easy. Watching your vid reminds me I should rewatch it.

[@vicenteortegarubilar9418]

I see what you did in the tittle......nice.

[@LessonsfromtheScreenplay]

:P

[@briancarpenter6413]

what did he do? I'm dumb.

[@witchbvrner]

Even on it's surface, as a basic straight up action film, it's still incredible. Mann really is a fantastic director that will be remembered as one of the greats.