Antwone Fisher
"This is a film that can change people's lives." -Joel Sigel, ABC TV
Denzel Washington makes his triumphant directorial debut and Derek Luke shines in his first big-screen role in this gripping "story of survival and triumph!" (Clay Smith, Access Hollywood).
Inspired by the true life experiences of its title character, Antwone Fisher tells the compelling story of a troubled sailor (Luke) who is ordered to see a naval psychiatrist (Washington) about his volatile temper. Little does he know that his first step into the doctor's office will lead him on a remarkable emotional journey to confront his painful past - and connect with the family the never knew.
Member Reviews
Great human interest story - NearNorth
Although centred around a navy man, this is not an action movie. At least not outwardly. There is an incredible amount of heart action in this movie. The story turns on a psychiatrist helping a young man in the navy to overcome his anger issues by guiding him to dealing with his abusive past. That past is alluded to and is depicted in some flashbacks, but thankfully not in graphic horror. The movie is sensitive to its viewers as well as its characters. As the young man's story spins out and he takes steps to take his past out from under the carpet, I found myself riveted, wondering where it would end for him. The ending will not disappoint.Washington Gets Behind the Camera - eoguy
When an actor makes their directorial debut, the results can be disastrous. That's why many choose to make their first shot directing a small production, often a film that plays solely to the arthouse crowd. Denzel Washington's first time behind the camera is a little more ambitious. He chose a cast of virtual unknowns, filming a somewhat complex storyline with emotional scenes and countless sets. The result is questionable, as the plot seems like old hat for Hollywood. But eventually the film wins over its overdone theme.
Based on a true story, Derek Luke plays Fisher, a sailor who is a ticking time bomb. Any small conflict with a fellow seaman results in a violent outburst from "Fish". Sent to the naval psychiatrist (played by Washinton), he is expected to solve his problems and get back to work. First building a wall between himself and his psychiatrist, "Fish" eventually trusts the man who understandd him more than anyone else. Coming to terms with his painful childhood, Fisher must learn to embrace the world around him, and face some of his greatest fears.
At first, Antwone Fisher sounds like a shameless rip-off of Good Will Hunting. As the film begins, it even feels like a been-there-done-that storyline. But Washington, with the help of the real-life Fisher penning the screenplay, make this more than a cliché Hollywood piece. The story quickly develops some good conflicts between the lead characters, and finds a serious love interest for Fisher (played by the classy Joy Bryant). Washington gets prime performances out of his entire cast, resulting in a well-rounded production. The film sometimes becomes too sentimental for its own good, but never lapses too far to recover. Even when the script becomes sappy, Luke does his best to bring it back to reality with his commendable lead performance.
While Antwone Fisher never found the huge success it deserved in theatres, a lot of viewers will discover the top-notch production on video.Well-acted and powerful - theScud
I always enjoy watching Denzel Washington act, he brings such range and conviction to his roles. He seems to command the screen in a way that few others can. This film is true accomplishment for him since he also directs the film from behind the camera.
The story of Antwone Fisher is a touching one -- a triumph over adversity. Derek Luke is very good in title role, bringing real emotion to the screen when required.
The subject matter tugs at the heart strings somewhat -- this is no popcorn rental -- and I recommend it for a view into power of the human spirit.
Member Reviews
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Great human interest story - NearNorth
Although centred around a navy man, this is not an action movie. At least not outwardly. There is an incredible amount of heart action in this movie. The story turns on a psychiatrist helping a young man in the navy to overcome his anger issues by guiding ...Washington Gets Behind the Camera - eoguy
When an actor makes their directorial debut, the results can be disastrous. That's why many choose to make their first shot directing a small production, often a film that plays solely to the arthouse crowd. Denzel Washington's first time behind the camera ...Well-acted and powerful - theScud
I always enjoy watching Denzel Washington act, he brings such range and conviction to his roles. He seems to command the screen in a way that few others can. This film is true accomplishment for him since he also directs the film from behind the camera.
The ...