Snitch Reviews

A strong and exhilarating thriller that's packed with powerful drama and explosive action. An awesome, hard-boiled, character-driven, emotionally effective and thrilling movie. A fast-paced, gritty, realistic, compelling and terrific informant drama that's both terrifying and relateable. Snitch is a pleasant and fantastic surprise that should be on your must-see list. The drama is gritty and real and the action is impressive. An explosive and furiously entertaining thrill-machine. It's tense, gripping and heart-pounding from start to finish. A pure adrenaline-charged knockout of a movie. It has a stunning and very good all-star cast. Dwayne Johnson gives his best and most impressive performance to date, he as never been better. Johnson is a born star in every capacity and truly believe their is nothing he cant do. Johnson just proves he gets better and better as he goes on in any genre. Jon Bernthal is terrific. Susan Sarandon is brilliant. Benjamin Bratt is electric. Barry Pepper is excellent. One of the first great films of 2013 so far. A tremendously exciting film that will totally grab your attention and keep you entertained.

Snitch is a terrific action drama starring Dwayne Johnson who gives a stunning, mature performance as a construction worker who goes undercover to clear his son's name who has been accused of selling drugs. I thoroughly enjoyed this movie, and Johnson delivers his greatest performance of all with Snitch. This is a well constructed picture that is among the best this year so far. Although it is far from perfect, it certainly is far better than a lot of films that has been released earlier this year. This is a highly entertaining film from start to finish and the cast do a fine job in their performances. The direction is wonderful and director Ric Roman Waugh does a great job with the material at hand. There are a few areas where the film falters, however the performance of Johnson alone is what makes this film really good and very entertaining from the first frame onwards. I was very much impressed with film, and felt it had just the right amount of drama and action to make for a truly interesting story. Of course, like I said the film has its flaws, but the plot, directing and performances make up for the sometime lacking bits. If you want a truly compelling drama action picture, give Snitch a view, you might be surprised at how good it really is. With that being said, I can't wait what Dwayne Johnson will be doing next. With this movie, he truly honed his craft as an actor and he is almost truly comfortable with the roles he is being offered, and it is truly rare because he won't be seen just as a wrestler turned actor. Snitch is a pulse pounding must see movie that will surely delight filmgoers looking for something truly entertaining to watch this year.

I've been a fan of The Rock since his days in the WWE, and watching this movie I just kept thinking "Damn he's come a long way". From "Scorpion King" to now "Snitch", he has really grown into a terrific actor. "Snitch" is based on the true story of a father going undercover to help arrest drug dealers in a deal with the D.A.(Susan Sarandan) to get his son out of prison. His son got popped for accepting a package that contained drugs, but he claims he made a huge mistake and never intended to sell them. His dad(Rock) believes him and the does whatever he can. Rock is very believable as a "working class" owner of a construction company, which I thought going into it would be a stretch. But he pulls it off. You feel for him, and you want to see him help his son. The supporting cast are all decent, and exactly what you would expect in a cheaper action type thriller. Barry Pepper even has a weird(very weird billy goat beard). Not bad, not great, but entertaining and won't put you to sleep.

Snitch is an exciting and simple thriller that once again proves to me that Dwayne Johnson is a capable and strong lead actor. I mean let's face it, many of us felt like this was going to be some cheap thriller that we wouldn't remember within a day. But after watching the film, I realized it was pure and good entertainment that gave me something good for my money. Director Ric Roman Waugh realizes that this is a simple crime thriller, and he uses that knowledge to his advantage to make a good film. He doesn't bother us with a cliche romance, he presents the story with a dark and intriguing tone, and he uses all the actors to the films advantage. Most audience members will pay to see this film because they are fans of Dwayne Johnson, and all I can tell them is that he delivers one of the most professional and true performances of his career. Johnson's career has become very successful and that is due to his likability, his strength, and his charisma. But to my surprise Snitch provides some good supporting performances from actors such as Jon Bernthal Barry Pepper, and Susan Sarandon. What impressed the most about this film was its maturity, how it takes its story seriously and gives us characters that we want to see succeed. Of course the film has its downfalls, such as its predictable story and its boring underlying messages, but if you can look past this than you have a pretty decent film. Snitch really surprised and impressed me with its mature writing, good direction, and impressive performances that makes it an entertaining and dark film.

The story follows John Matthews (Dwayne Johnson), a construction company owner who recently has discovered his estranged son Jason (Rafi Gavron) has been arrested for drug distribution, which was really a setup by his friend in a sting operation. John must find a way to get his son out of prison by performing a sting operation on one of the biggest local drug distributors with the help of one of his employees (Jon Bernthal).

The plot of the film doesn't spark any real imagination or new ideas, however it has some interesting characters and also gives us a very interesting spin on the world of crime. In a lot of ways this film reminds of the television show "Breaking Bad," due to its dark tone, some story and character similarities, and its insight on the world of drug distribution. Luckily this film stands on its own two feet and casual filmgoers will enjoy the story for being interesting and believable. It delivers characters with true personalities, true feelings, and true lives that showed me they weren't a bunch of boring one-dimensional characters. But I think another reason they work so well is the actors playing them, as without their skills the characters wouldn't have worked. The first 15 minutes or so shows the main protagonist's son Jason many times, but after that he disappears for most of the film and it confused. His character is the drive and force for the main character, and I was disappointed that the story just forgets to include him after they establish him as one of the most important characters in the film. The story also tries to deliver a message in the subtext, and it just tries too hard to show it off if you ask me. So overall I felt the characters were very well established and interesting, but the story itself could've tried some new ideas and made some smarter decisions.

The cast completely blew me away with their believability and skills as actors, and it can be argued that without Johnson and Bernthal this film might've been a failure. Dwayne Johnson has had his ups and his downs as an actor, and he will likely still have these problems in the future, but he has shown me that he can handle a dark and powerful performance like this. He isn't his usual self in this film, he shows new depth and layers as an actor that shows me he could maybe handle a dramatic role. Johnson has matured from his usual kiddie films and has shown audiences that he is a very good actor in the right film. Jon Bernthal has been taken off "The Walking Dead" and is now pursuing a career in films, and from the looks of him in this film that may be a very smart decision. His performance was personal, dramatic, and true, and made me look at him from a whole new direction. I can't wait to see him in future roles. Barry Pepper has some very good scenes in the film and really took his performance seriously, which I enjoyed. Susan Sarandon has reminded me of her power as an actress and I enjoyed seeing her in a role like this. Michael K. Williams and Benjamin Bratt also give some very good performances in the film, and used their screen time well. I had no complaints about the cast, and I hope they are given the recognition they deserve.

Snitch was a film that I honestly didn't have high hopes for, but it rises from the ashes of start of the year cliché crime dramas and gives us something actually worth a peak. Usually my main complaint about cinema is that whenever it's the start of a new year, we are always given a bunch of bad films that studios didn't want to be released in December. Many times we are given some good or even great films, but the majority of films that come out at the beginning of the year are just pathetic. But I didn't see that with Snitch, mainly because I was watching a film that was actually trying to be good and believed in itself and its actors. It wasn't cliché, although it had its moments of predictability, and it really proved to be better than the trailers had advertised. I guess you could even say I really enjoyed the film because it gave me exactly what I had paid for and left me with a film to remember. Now don't get me wrong, this film was by no means a masterpiece and won't appeal to probably a lot of people, but from what I was expecting before going into the theater, I couldn't have asked for a better film. Dwayne Johnson gave me exactly what I wish to see from him in the future: a talented a likable actor that knows what it takes to lead a film. If you want to see a thriller that rises above clichés and boring characters, I urge you to see Snitch.

Whenever anything is labeled with "inspired by true events" a film always walk a thin line between reality and fiction. Though in the case of Snitch is much riskier since the "drug is bad" message have been played out to death and another similar message could have be repetitive to take in. In the case of Snitch, it's becomes much more than a simple message.

Snitch is about a father who goes undercover for the DEA in order to free his son who was imprisoned after being set up in drug deal. The film presents a more realistic portrayal on the issues surrounding drugs. Instead of glamorizing low level drug problem it presents the risk and consequences drugs can have. It's a welcome issue the film dares to brings up which often is overlooked by the general public. The protagonist situation is very disheartening and it's quickly establish in the first act how much the father cares for his son. It's this kind of risk versus reward scenario that always keep things interesting for more than one person life is always on the line. This premise allows for plenty of character development and the characters action are things one could analyze for the issues the film present is not a work of fiction. It's a well thought out drama that realistically portrays a real world issues in a engaging way.

The film is not without it flaws as with any film carrying "inspired by true events" label. It's social commentary is consistently present meaning you'll be constantly hearing drugs are bad in some sort of context. The film lacks creativity for it does not take any bold risk letting the story unfold itself. This path of storytelling is too safe for this subject matter. We never actually get to see what happens to the father son in prison and instead are told what happens. Simply telling us what happened to a father child in prison is not the same as showing it. It's one-sided when it comes to depicting the "drug world hierarchy". Aside from two characters, everyone involves in some kind of drug work is simply plain evil. None of them are given any redeemable values or black and white reason for being involved in these illegal activities. Then Susan Sarandon who plays a U.S. attorney always spout exposition which given her character job could have put to better use. The ending will leave something to desired as well.

Dwayne Johnson usually comes to mind when picturing testosterone action flick, but that's not the case here. Dwayne Johnson plays his most vulnerable character to date in a film heavy on the drama and very lite on the action. It is here where Johnson acting chops are put to good to use. With the exception of a couple cheesy line delivery Dwayne Johnson is really good at dramatic acting. He showcase passion on his more emotional side. It's one of the few times where you'll see Johnson as the character and not a actor. Jon Bernthal is miscast playing a Hispanic character, but his performance is better than that of the star. Bernthal is more easy to buy as a father since he's not the size of Johnson. The two short action set-pieces provide energy when the film is running out steam. The action is lackluster since it attempts to be realistic which works for what it trying to presents, but are absence of thrills. Little is done in the situations and the shaky cam is present in the only two scenes that contain action.

Snitch plays it safe with creative narrative, but solid acting and a realistic portrayal of low level drug problems helps get it message across better than your average after school special. If you get past the ever present social commentary you'll able to get into the engaging story while also seeing a real issue that won't go away after the credits roll.

Far from being a sequel to Snatch, the Rock's latest instead pushes a drug called mediocrity on moviegoers. Oh, the set-up proves interesting enough, what with an Everyman embracing criminal insanity for the sake of family. Here's the Rundown, however: Despite Walking Tall with this Game Plan, the flick plays Faster and looser with credibility than another Rock, the one that pitched Nicolas Cage as a chemical weapons specialist who breaks into Alcatraz prison. Putting its best foot and a good heart forward, Snitch tries to be a drama and action movie, but it falters at pulling off either to any great success. Honestly, it's just not the right vehicle for Johnson, whose turn in The Tooth Fairy held higher stakes and seemed more believable.

In this PG-13-rated crime-drama, a suburban father (Johnson) goes undercover to serve up a nefarious drug dealer to reduce his son's sentence after his teenage son is sentenced to ten years under mandatory minimum drug laws.

Brimming with oodles of charm to spare, Dwayne Johnson can give a great performance...in over-the-top testosterone shoot-'em-ups or cartoonish family flicks, at least. Selling him as an Average Joe getting beatdowns from hood rats just seems implausibly ridiculous. Hell, audiences can't even completely buy his motivation as a guilt-ridden loving father willing to go deep undercover (note: an arched eyebrow alone doesn't convince). Likewise, the script, though supposedly based on true events, puts forth some hard-hitting urgent matters without giving the proper sense of urgency. It's like a potboiler that's been taken off the burner.

Bottom line: Journey 2 the ridiculous.

A lot of "inspired by true events" films have a tendency to get away from themselves, and lose all elements of realism. Snitch, however, doesn't do that. Despite some outlandish action sequences and twists, the heart of the film anchors itself by a genuinely realistic premise and moving message, one that points out yet another absurd aspect of our criminal justice system, mandatory minimum sentence laws.

Surprisingly, Dwayne Johnson manages to turn in a serviceable performance, as he hits on enough true emotional beats, and has just the right presence to carry his role. What really elevates the film, however, is the supporting cast. Barry Pepper was undoubtedly the highlight of the film, having a remarkably changed demeanor and persona for this particular role, with an especially convincing performance as a DEA agent.

The film's script does a good job with its set-up, giving us a family situation that, though cliched in many respects, manages to hit on a number of true and relate-able elements, offering us characters in situations that we can believe and empathize with. Its message about minimum sentence laws, and the drug war in general, is a bit too on the nose, but certainly well received.

The dramatic elements of the film are certainly better executed than the action scenes, as the action feels lackluster and often rushed. That it works on a purely dramatic level, however, is a testament to the actors, its message, and the direction. It never ceases to be entertaining, has a true emotional heart, and a strong sense of story.

4/5 Stars

Home Run for The Rock. This is one of his best film roles that I have seen him in. I know a lot of people don't think he was the right actor for the role, but in my opinion, he pulled it off. What I like is that he is not the same action hero that we have seen him be in past action films. Here he is a vulnerable average man thrown into an amazing situation. He reminded me a little of Arnold's performance in Total Recall. From beginning to end, we care for The Rock's character and want to see him make it through this situation.

The film did remind me of movies like The Firm, The Next Three Days, and Black Dog. It is very suspenseful. I thought the action scenes were well shot.

The Rock has a great supporting cast backing him up. Jon Bernthal almost steals the film from The Rock. Susan Sarandon is great as the D.A. Benjamin Bratt is great as the villain. Melina Kanakaredes is great as the Rock's ex wife in the film. While, Barry Pepper did a good job in the film, I didn't like his goatee in it. He looked like a cartoon character.

I definitely recommend this film. The Rock should make more films like this one.

Hollywood loves Dwayne Johnson right now. With four or more films starring the professional wrestler set to release this year, there's no denying he's an action star draw, but who knew he had a passionate, emotional side? Sure, some of the lighter portions of "Snitch" are stiff and unconvincing, especially when Johnson is made to console the females in his life, but otherwise, Johnson as an overprotective father is completely on par and believable. The plot of "Snitch" follows John Matthews (Johnson) as he attempts to set up big time drug dealers to get his son out of jail making a stupid mistake. The based on a true story takes hold with titles at the end telling the true life laws of minimum sentencing. The downside to "Snitch" is how easy getting to the top of the drug dealer food chain is. The upside is getting to see above average performances by both the underrated Barry Pepper and the future star in Jon Bernthal of "The Walking Dead". Both men steal the show. Johnson's performance is fine and often warrants awe with his broad shoulders and large stature, but trying to domesticate him with dress shirts or a baseball cap just doesn't do the trick, often leaving you unconvinced. The action picks up nicely towards the end of the film and the story eventually draws you in enough to care how everyone will end up, including the pivotal moments where John faces his son again. The conclusion is left rather open, leaving a sour note with tons of questions, but overall "Snitch" is an above average dramatic thriller with some key performances from its supporting cast.

As always I'm confident in the acting ability from Dwayne Johnson. I see all of his movies in the theaters. I grew up watching him in the WWF/WWE and will continue to support his films on the silver screen, but sometimes I question the movies he does not because he can't act, (he was by far the best reason to see this movie) but because of everyone else and the storyline thrown together for the film. It's nice to see him in a role where he doesn't kick ass and take names because he knows how to do it from the start. In Snitch, he pretty much exemplifies the typical businessman father figure. Who cares about it's underlying political message. Don't go, or not go, see this movie because of that, but go see it because The Rock is a presence on screen. The other supporting actors are decent, but if you're a fan of the People's Champ, you're a fan of the People's movies. This one just hits the average meeter. Good thing he has close to four other films coming out this year. It's a big year for the big man.

Not as bad as I thought it would be, but still pretty predictable.

Dwayne Johnson flexes his acting muscles and does a pretty damn good job of it. I rather enjoyed this movie. It is full of great character actors and is one of those movies that I wouldn't mind seeing every now and again.

THIS ONE WAS GOOD AND I THOUGHT IT WAS FUNNY HOW DWAYNE JOHNSON ACTING LIKE HE WAS SCARED WHEN THE GUY LOOKS LIKE THE HULK I LOVE DWAYNE JOHNSON HE AN AMAZING ACTOR.

"Snitch is no-where near originality or up to par with the Rock's other action flicks, but entertaining enough to the point where if you can get past the flaws, there are many, you may actually find enjoyment out of this easily forgettable action film." .. B

this surprises-------the Rock is becoming a very watchable and dependable star. this is good and does not take you too far beyond belief. see it and like it.

Snitch is a well made action thriller that is flawed but is saved by the movie's engaging story and the great performances by the cast. Before seeing Snitch I really had no expectations because it looked so standard but after seeing it I could say that I was pleasantly surprised. I enjoyed this movie very much because the story had me engaged for the most part and I got what I wanted for the hour and a half I was in that theater. If your going into in this movie expecting a full out action movie with The Rock than you will be disappointed because this is more of a drama than an action film and I actually liked that a lot. I thought the film's drama worked very well because the movie tackles a very serious issue which is the war on drugs. I was very pleased that writer/director Ric Roman Waugh was able to tell a very good story while also giving a message to the audience the will leave them thinking once the film is over. Even though this movie has a lot of drama there is still a couple of action sequences that where good to have me entertained. One of the movie's biggest strengths is the performances by the actors, especially Dwayne Johnson's performance. I think Johnson is a fine actor and is good in certain action movies of comedies but in this I just though he was great in this and he proved that he can also do drama's as well. Jon Bernthal (or as I like to call him Shane from The Walking Dead) is also very good in this film along with Barry Pepper, Susan Sarandon, and Michael Kenneth. Even though I enjoyed the story quite a bit I found it to be a little bit flawed towards the end which is ultimately my biggest problem I had with this movie. Towards the end I thought there were moments that were just kind of boring and uninteresting. I also found it to be a bit predictable and clichéd in the end. Overall Snitch is a good film which I would recommend renting or even seeing a matinee because its worth watching and not a bad way to waste an hour and a half.

Didn't expect much, c'mon, its the Rock after all but I was pleasantly surprised in this heart wrenching action thriller! What a father won't do for his son! Some big players in this one too with Susan Sarandon and Benjamin Bratt. I enjoyed it.

2/19/2013: Rock was more vulnerable and was not his usual badass self, but this was a pretty good movie.

It's first act could use a little sprucing up, but everything else about this movie shines bright: colorful characters, thrilling action/tension, and a devoted lead performance from Dwayne Johnson.