Friday Film Noir
Enemy of the State (1998) is an action thriller directed by Tony Scott and written by David Marcon. Labor lawyer Robert Clayton Dean (Will Smith) unknowingly receives a disk containing footage of a U.S. Congressman's assassination. Corrupt National Security Agency official Thomas Brian Reynolds (Jon Voight) orchestrates a smear campaign and freezes Dean’s assets to destroy his credibility. Dean tracks down underground communications expert Edward Lyle (Gene Hackman) to expose the cover-up and clear his name.
Gene Hackman unofficially based his reclusive character as a successor to his role in the 1974 classic The Conversation. Before Hackman accepted the part, the role was offered to Sean Connery. Early casting discussions for the lead character centered on Mel Gibson and Tom Cruise before Will Smith secured the role. The film cast several future stars in minor supporting roles, including Jack Black, who signed on largely for the opportunity to work with Gene Hackman. Aaron Sorkin was called in late in development to rewrite Will Smith's dialogue and inject his trademark rapid-fire cadence.
1998 • R • 2h 12mRotten Tomatoes: 71%
Holy Unknown Grade: B+
