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The Tuxedo

The Tuxedo (2002)

Cabbie-turned-chauffeur Jimmy Tong learns there is really only one rule when you work for playboy millionaire Clark Devlin : Never touch Devlin's prized tuxedo. But when Devlin is temporarily put out of commission in an explosive accident, Jimmy puts on the tux and soon discovers that this extraordinary suit may be more black belt than black tie. Paired with a partner as inexperienced as he is, Jimmy becomes an unwitting secret agent.

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Directed by Kevin Donovan

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Kevin Donovan
Producer
  • John H. Williams
  • Adam Schroeder

Reviews

Cyberknight
5/10

CGI manages to completely shadow Jackie Chan's talent. Why wire-fu, when he can do much better for real (as he has more than proved throw his films).

Sep 22, 2019

Kamurai
7/10

Good watch, might watch again, and can recommend.

I'm not sure Jackie Chan has made a bad movie on the simple fact that almost no one can do what he does, and the flair he puts on it would keep distinct even if someone else tried to compete. Part of his charm is how humble he acts, and this movie amplifies that as he's a guy that doesn't know what he's doing and has to rely on a Tuxedo for his abilities and Jennifer Love Hewitt for basically everything else.

JLH is great in this as well, she does some action, she's funny, she does some positive messaging for women, and she act's smart. I'm not sure if this could have been a little stronger if she was an experience field agent instead of a socially awkward scientist, but I don't think it would have been nearly as charming.

The writing is structured fine, but I wish it had a little more oompf to it. The villain's plot is interesting and innovative, but I feel like they could have done a lot more with it.

All said and done, it was good, but there are probably better actions, comedies, and spy movies you could watch.

Jul 28, 2020

JPV852
5/10

Came out when Jackie Chan, Jet Li or Chow Yun-fat was doing anything thrown their way in Hollywood, probably thanks to the success of the Rush Hour franchise. The Tuxedo is a middling action-comedy that never really works though you get plenty of gratuitous shots of Jennifer Love Hewitt's cleavage. Has some moments but pretty forgettable even with Chan's martial arts skills on display. **2.5/5**

Jun 1, 2021

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Thematic Analysis

This high-octane Thriller/Action/Comedy/Science Fiction film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, The Tuxedo distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.

Director Kevin Donovan brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2002, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of The Tuxedo took approximately 10 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $60.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 156 minutes long.
  • The screenplay went through 9 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • The musical score contains over 54 unique compositions.
  • The film contains approximately 2418 individual shots.

Historical Context

  • In 2002, when this film is released:
  • Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
  • The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
  • Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.

How This Film Stands Out

While The Tuxedo shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Place Your Bets, Ladies, which focuses more on action than character development, The Tuxedo offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Crank and Kaalapani explore similar territory, The Tuxedo stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: September 27, 2002
  • Runtime: 1h 38m
  • Budget: $60,000,000
  • Revenue: $104,400,000

Where to Watch

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