Training Day Review

Some films, be it because of Twitter comments or GIFs or references, can feel like big gaps in cinematic knowledge.

Watching Training Day filled in a big gap.

But I must admit I was slightly underwhelmed. The story – loosely based on real events – comes across a lot better a few weeks later in my memory than it did at time of viewing. The main issue I had was the final half hour, which in comparison to the rest of the film felt muddled. As though writer David Ayer wasn’t sure how to wrap it up.

One part of Training Day does not disappoint though, and as you’re likely guessing, it’s Denzel Washington. Relishing the chance to be the bad guy, his intensity burns through the screen, fueled by his natural presence and charisma. Denzel leans on his clean-cut image to muddle our feelings towards his character. The rest of the cast are doing their best to keep up!

Training Day is a good film but so much of it is dependent on Washington being Oscar-worthy. No one would be talking about it twenty years later otherwise. Nevertheless, I’m pleased I’ve seen it.

Nice little bonus to see the Stephen “The Hammer” Wexler, the judge from Ghostbusters 2!