THE RECRUIT (2003) Not since Scarface has Pacino's explosive temperament been as effectively deployed as it is in the wink-wink finale to director Roger Donaldson's so-so spy yarn,…
Video Review

THE RECRUIT (2003)

MPAA Rating: PG-13
Reviewed by Joshua Rich | May 30, 2003
EW's GRADE
B-

Details Release Date: May 27, 2003; Movie Rated: PG-13; Genres: Action/Adventure, Mystery and Thriller; With: Colin Farrell and Al Pacino; Distributor: Buena Vista Pictures

Not since Scarface has Pacino's explosive temperament been as effectively deployed as it is in the wink-wink finale to director Roger Donaldson's so-so spy yarn, a film that winds up more cockamamy than clever. No matter, though. Farrell, as Pacino's computer-geek protege, is so appealing you totally understand how he can charm the pants off fellow CIA rookie-cum-espionage rival Bridget Moynahan (The Sum of All Fears). Just check out their scorching, clothes-on parking-lot tryst. It's the best dramatic use of a D.C.-area garage since All the President's Men.

Originally posted May 30, 2003 Published in issue #712 May 30, 2003 Order article reprints