Often criticized for being a Pulp Fiction (1994) rip-off, this sly crime caper has proven to be much more.  In fact, the only common denominators in this movie and Tarantino's film is hitmen, murder and Bruce Willis.

     Josh Hartnett plays Slevin, an unlucky young man whose luck gets worse the further into the city he goes.  After being mugged, finding his girlfriend cheating on him and arriving to his friend's apartment, he is suddenly thrust into an ongoing war between two rivaling mob factions that exist across the street from each other.

     The Boss (Morgan Freeman) and The Rabbi (Sir Ben Kingsley), at once partners, have become mortal enemies who never leave their respective castles.  Along comes Mr. Goodkat (Bruce Willis), and the entire block is shaken to it's core.

     With cinematography inspired by French noir, and music that sounds like it belongs in an elevator, Paul McGuigan paints a refreshing adaptation to the usual gangster nods.

 

     What Makes This Movie Cool:  Josh Hartnett.  While Mr. Freeman and Mr. Kingsley certainly added gravitas, and the scene of them together brings to mind the brilliance of Pacino v. De Niro in Heat (1995), we gotta give it to Josh.  His 'cool as a cucumber' reactions, his smartass remarks and his complete lack of comprehension make this a must-see for anyone looking to have a good time at the movies.