Film Review: Street Kings (2008)

The boyish looks and reputation of the "nicest man in Hollywood" have often hampered Keanu Reeves' career, making it challenging for audiences and critics to accept him as a world-weary or morally challenged protagonist. One such film that exemplifies this struggle is the 2008 action thriller Street Kings, directed by David Ayer. In this film, Reeves attempts to break away from his established persona, portraying a character that embodies the darker aspects of human nature.

In Street Kings, Reeves plays Tom Ludlow, a detective with the Los Angeles Police Department who grapples with personal demons following the death of his wife. His descent into alcoholism complicates his life further, yet he remains part of an elite undercover unit. Ludlow uses his position to dispense his own brand of street justice, eliminating criminals without regard for actual law. While his colleagues appreciate his actions, his former partner, Detective Terrence Washington (played by Terry Crews), has a different perspective and is allegedly cooperating with Captain James Briggs (played by Hugh Laurie) of Internal Affairs in an investigation that could bring Ludlow down. Ludlow decides to confront Washington, but their encounter ends when two masked gunmen kill Washington. Although there is incriminating evidence against Ludlow, it is suppressed by his boss, Captain Jack Wanger (played by Forest Whitaker). Ludlow, nevertheless, decides to investigate the killing of his former partner, with the help of Detective Paul Diskant (played by Chris Evans).

The script for Street Kings was originally written by James Ellroy, a crime fiction author famous for his novels exploring the dark underbelly of Los Angeles and police corruption, which have inspired notable films like L.A. Confidential. The film was directed by David Ayer, who, as a screenwriter and director, has also explored similar subjects, most notably in his script for Training Day. Street Kings covers many of the same subjects and features similar situations to many of Ayer's films, which is both its strength and weakness. On one hand, Ayer directs the film confidently and energetically, establishing a fast tempo and filling the plot with exciting scenes. On the other hand, the script doesn't seem too original, and viewers will quickly realise how the plot will unfold.

Reeves delivers a commendable performance as Tom Ludlow; however, some critics argue that an older actor might have better matched the intensity required for the role—drawing comparisons to Mel Gibson’s portrayal in Lethal Weapon. The supporting cast also performs well, although some question the casting of British actor Hugh Laurie in the underwritten role of an Internal Affairs investigator.

Critics were not particularly kind to Street Kings, expressing dissatisfaction with its high levels of violence and perceived racial stereotypes. Additionally, many pointed out the lack of significant female characters; the only prominent woman in the film is Ludlow’s nurse girlfriend, played by Mexican actress Martha Higareda, who is largely relegated to being eye candy rather than a fully developed character.

Despite these critical shortcomings, Street Kings achieved respectable box office success. Its commercial viability led to a direct-to-video sequel titled Street Kings 2: Motor City in 2010, set in Detroit and lacking any direct connection to the original film.

Street Kings is, despite its flaws, still a very entertaining and stylish action thriller, at least for those who can tolerate similar films from the 1980s or won't be too bothered by a lack of originality.

RATING: 6/10 (++)

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