Grade: A-

Crash is one of the five Academy Award nominees for Best Picture 2005. And deservedly so. This movie is well written, well produced, and well acted. But it’s not for everyone. This is one of the most intense movies I’ve ever seen. And it certainly doesn’t do anything for the tourism industry in Los Angeles. It is incredibly dark and complicated, and definitely makes a statement or two. Terence Howard is amazing as a TV director, Thandie Newton is outstanding as his pampered yet put-upon wife. Sandra Bullock is a big surprise as an angry, spoiled housewife. Don Cheadle is excellent, as always, as the detective who seems to tie the whole story together. Matt Dillon got a nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role as a biased cop. Ryan Phillippe is brilliant as his rookie partner. The movie is just remarkable, extremely thought-provoking. It stays with you days later. It’s rated R – lots of violence, language. OK for older teens, may even open some discussion in the household.