Changing Lanes

The fairly well-written, though not exceptional, script that stays within the mainstream, combined with the decent cast led by the experienced Samuel L. Jackson, elevates the film to a slightly above-average genre piece. I can't give it four stars due to the clichéd tacked-on happy ending, which doesn't match the overall tone of the story. Ben Affleck, often considered the epitome of bad acting by many, actually doesn't perform badly in this film, though he's nowhere near Jackson's level. The film is interesting primarily for the clash between two distinctly different characters and their value systems. Overall impression: 65%. (05.02.2008)

This day turned into the worst day of their life for Gavin Banek (Ben Affleck) and Doyle Gipson (Samuel L. Jackson) when a small car accident destroyed their lives. Gipson came twenty minutes late to his divorce hearing and lost his family and Banek left a document at the site of the accident that could get him jailed if he doesn’t submit it. The only thing that can change the way they feel right now is revenge! Changing Lanes is a movie about people, vengeance and the little things that can change your life without our being aware. Affleck’s acting is very natural and his character is pleasantly down to earth and realistic. Jackson is also great as an alcoholic in recovery and a dad trying his very hardest. Apart from a couple of errors of logic, Changing Lanes is a perfect psychological thriller about how fortune and destiny play games with people. 4* (01.10.2006)

Changing Lanes (2002) Changing Lanes is a brilliant psychological probe into the world of two New Yorkers with different social statuses, but carrying the same psychological burden on their shoulders. The acting is perfect and the directing is even better. It might be a bit cold, but that’s just part of the deal. As oppressive a drama as Schumacher’s Falling Down. (06.11.2002)

I have the same feelings as koCOUR. I also considered 5*, but that ending that ruined the atmosphere of the entire film. On the other hand, the positive message that sometimes everything turns out for the best doesn't hurt either. Anyway, it’s a miracle that a mainstream film like this paid itself without trouble in the US and had pretty decent reviews. One of the surprises of the year for me and Affleck and Jackson are great. (11.05.2003)