Enemy of the State

Enemy of the State is an intense thriller that still holds up today, maybe even more so with how technology and surveillance have evolved. The pacing is spot-on, keeping things moving without feeling rushed or dragging. Sure, the technical details are wildly inaccurate, but that doesn't really matter when the movie is this engaging. Watching it now, a lot of what seemed far-fetched back in 1998 doesn’t feel as impossible anymore, which makes it even more compelling. Will Smith carries the film effortlessly, balancing charm, panic, and determination in a way that keeps you invested. Then there's Brill, played by Gene Hackman, who adds that perfect mix of paranoia and experience, making their dynamic one of the highlights. The cinematography does a great job shifting perspectives at just the right moments, pulling you into the feeling of always being watched. It’s not flawless, and there are some odd creative choices here and there, but nothing that takes away from the experience. The sound design and score are decent, though nothing particularly memorable, which works fine since it doesn’t take anything away from the film. What really makes Enemy of the State work is its energy and tension, it never lets up, and it keeps you engaged the whole way through. If you’re into high-stakes thrillers with a strong cast and a story that feels more relevant now than when it first came out, this one is definitely worth revisiting.