As those excesses begin to multiply, Ludlow’s problems with internal affairs deepen. He’s told that his ex-partner (Terry Crews) has ratted out Ludlow, but after learning of the betrayal, Ludlow makes one final impulsive decision that puts him in his most compromising position yet—at the scene of his ex-partner’s death. Determined to clear his name and find the killers of his ex-partner, Ludlow follows a trail of clues that puts him in touch with several shady figures, including Coates (Common) and Scribble (Cedric the Entertainer), to a surprising resolution.
Street Kings does not tap the same noirish vein of L.A. Confidential, nor does it approach the visual grandeur of The Black Dahlia. Cinematically dull, the film tries to compensate with numerous acts of excessive violence. Ludlow’s motives are poorly fleshed out—he goes from solitary rebel to compassionate defender of widows in no time, thanks to a hastily explained bit of back story that comes across as too convenient—and an attempt at a romantic interest fizzles badly.
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What’s left? Several scenes of sadistic violence, which open and close the film, and much of what comes in between. The film’s mystery is drawn out and ultimately not too surprising. The only remaining question is how so many talented actors and writers produced this tedious, ugly film.
Questions? Comments? Contact the writer at crosswalkchristian@earthlink.net.
CAUTIONS:
- Language/Profanity: Lord’s name taken in vain; excessive profanity; sexual taunts.
- Drugs/Alcohol: Vodka consumption, sometimes while driving.
- Sex/Nudity: Some kissing; woman in a bikini swimsuit; verbal reference to adultery.
- Violence: Machine-gunning of victims; other gun violence and killing; shooting victim shown in a pool of his own blood; taunt about suicide; buried corpses are shown; other forms of bodily harm.
- Crime: Police corruption.