Collateral or: A Brief History of Mann

Michael Mann secured his place in pop-culture history years ago...

As executive producer and writer for 80s cop show Miami Vice, Mann helped bridge the gap between network TV and the MTV "style." "Vice" was flashy, had a keen fashion sense and featured some of the most unique guest stars to ever appear on prime time (Frank Zappa as ultimate villain Fuentes anyone?).

1986's Crime Story, which Mann executive produced and wrote for, remains a cult favorite and is most notable for introducing audiences to Dennis Farina.

Mann didn't rest on his TV laurels though. His 1986 film Manhunter brought a pre-Anthony Hopkins Hannibal Lecter to the screen. Other notable films that Mann has directed include The Last of the Mohicans, The Insider, which earned Russell Crowe an Oscar nod, Ali, starring Will Smith, and Heat, which featured Al Pacino and Bobby D in a cops and robbers thriller that is quite possibly the "high-water mark" of the genre.

It's no surprise then to see Mann stomping around in familiar territory with the recently released Collateral. The Tom Cruise vehicle also features Jamie Foxx and Jada Pinkett Smith.

The acting on all fronts is solid, and Mann's direction has never been better. No shot is wasted, and the visual flow is seamless. Mann is a true master of the form and one of only a handful of directors who can successfully integrate source music and original score.

Although Collateral suffers from an unsatisfying final third, it is still a can't miss for anyone who loves film.