Traffic (2000) Review

Steven Soderbergh's Traffic (2000) is one of those films that caught the attention of both critics and audiences alike at the turn of the millennium. It’s a film that attempts to tackle the vast and murky world of the drug trade from multiple perspectives. With a narrative style that weaves various storylines together, Traffic offers a gritty and realistic portrayal of the complexities involved in the war on drugs.

Plot Summary

Traffic navigates through the interwoven lives of its characters, each affected by the drug trade in different ways. We follow a high-profile judge newly appointed as the nation's drug czar, a desperate wife trying to maintain her lifestyle after her husband is arrested for drug trafficking, a pair of DEA agents caught in the crossfire, and a Mexican cop who finds himself in the midst of corruption and moral dilemmas. The film does an exceptional job of exploring each storyline without overwhelming viewers, offering a comprehensive look at how drugs impact society on multiple levels.

Performances

The performances in Traffic are nothing short of outstanding, with a cast that delivers depth and authenticity. Michael Douglas plays Robert Wakefield, the newly appointed drug czar, conveying the conflict and challenges of a man caught between his professional duties and personal life. Catherine Zeta-Jones steps into the shoes of Helena Ayala, who transforms from a naive housewife to a determined woman navigating the dangerous waters of her husband’s illicit business. Benicio Del Toro, as the conflicted Mexican cop Javier Rodriguez, delivers a subtle yet powerful performance that rightfully earned him an Academy Award. The supporting cast, including Don Cheadle and Luis Guzmán as DEA agents, add layers to the narrative, each bringing their own unique touch to their roles.

Direction and Craft

Soderbergh's direction is a standout element in Traffic, as he masterfully handles the film’s complex structure. He uses distinct color palettes to differentiate between the various storylines: a cool blue hue for the scenes in Washington, DC, a warm golden tint for the scenes in Mexico, and a neutral tone for the San Diego sequences. This visual technique not only helps in keeping track of the narrative but also enhances the mood and atmosphere of each storyline.

The editing, handled by Stephen Mirrione, is sharp and effective, ensuring that the transitions between the interlocking stories are smooth and engaging. The film's score by Cliff Martinez complements the visuals perfectly, with a memorable yet rhythmic soundtrack that underscores the tension and urgency of the narrative.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, Traffic is a must-have in any serious film collection, particularly for those who appreciate intense dramas with a socio-political edge. The film was released in several formats, but the Blu-ray edition stands out for its superior picture and sound quality. It captures the film’s distinct visual style beautifully, allowing viewers to fully appreciate Soderbergh's use of color and framing.

In terms of availability, Traffic is relatively common, so tracking down a good copy shouldn't be too challenging. However, for those who like to have the best possible version, the Criterion Collection has released a special edition that includes a wealth of bonus features, such as behind-the-scenes documentaries and commentaries that provide deeper insights into the making of the film.

Overall, Traffic is a film that combines top-notch performances, skillful direction, and a thought-provoking narrative. It’s a film that not only entertains but also sparks conversation about a pressing issue that continues to be relevant today. As a collector, owning a copy of Traffic not only adds a significant title to your library but also provides an opportunity to revisit a film that challenges and engages on multiple levels.