Everybody's a critic - 'Narc'

Three stars

Some movies spend way too long setting up the plot and developing the characters. The great thing about "Narc" is that it doesn't do this. You immediately join the action of a gun chase, which sets the tone for the rest of the movie. The movie kept my interest from this very first chase to the surprise ending.

Both Ray Liotta and Jason Patric are terrific in the movie. They effectively convey the stresses and challenges of being undercover cops.

Their police work is successfully intertwined with their personal and family problems. The characters they play are not portrayed as glorified heroes, which helps to make the movie more interesting.

I wouldn't recommend this movie if you are in the mood for some lighthearted fun. However, if you are in the mood for something more suspenseful and intense, I think this movie would be the perfect choice.

- Saira Khan, university student

Three and a half stars

"Narc" is one of those films that you don't take much notice of at first. The film's box office grosses are a clear indication of that, but I think it may be the sleeper hit of the year. In light of big-name flicks like "The Recruit" and big-budget wastes of celluloid like "Biker Boyz," it's no wonder "Narc" has been hiding under the radar. The cinematography is fairly original, as is the use of bleaching of the picture to get a true feeling of cold and grittiness.

Thanks to the screenplay and plot I was kept in a constant state of uneasiness throughout the film. That's perfect because most films these days don't evoke emotions, which is the whole point of film. The acting was above par though not exactly Oscar-worthy. The movie is drug/crime/drama at its best.

- Blake Burress, university student