Traffic (2000)

Traffic (2000) Review: A Gripping and Multi-Layered Crime Drama

Introduction

“Traffic” (2000), directed by Steven Soderbergh, is a powerful and intricate crime drama that explores the complex world of drug trafficking from multiple perspectives. Featuring an ensemble cast including Michael Douglas, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Benicio del Toro, and Don Cheadle, the film offers a nuanced portrayal of the drug trade’s impact on individuals and society. With its interconnected storylines and realistic depiction of the drug war, “Traffic” has earned critical acclaim and remains a standout film in the genre.

In this review, we’ll examine the film’s plot, themes, performances, and direction, and provide information on where to stream or purchase “Traffic” online in the U.S.

Plot Overview

“Traffic” weaves together several storylines to present a comprehensive view of the drug trade. The film follows three main narratives:

1. The Law Enforcement Perspective: U.S. Supreme Court Justice Robert Wakefield (Michael Douglas) is appointed as the head of the President’s drug czar commission. As he delves into his new role, he discovers that his own daughter, Caroline (Erika Christensen), is a drug addict. This personal revelation forces him to confront the harsh realities of the drug trade and its impact on families.
2. The Drug Dealer’s Perspective: In Mexico, police officer Javier Rodriguez (Benicio del Toro) and his partner, Manolo Sanchez (Jacob Vargas), are assigned to investigate drug trafficking. Rodriguez’s moral dilemma intensifies as he becomes embroiled in a corrupt system and faces dangerous choices that affect his life and career.
3. The Dealer’s Wife Perspective: In the U.S., Helena Ayala (Catherine Zeta-Jones) is the wife of a drug lord, Carlos Ayala (Steven Bauer). After Carlos is arrested, Helena is forced to take over his operations. She must navigate the treacherous world of drug trafficking while dealing with the challenges of maintaining her family’s power and safety.

The film’s narrative structure is complex, with each storyline interweaving to provide a multifaceted view of the drug trade. The different perspectives highlight the far-reaching consequences of drug trafficking and the moral ambiguities faced by those involved.

Themes and Emotional Impact

“Traffic” explores themes of power, corruption, and the personal impact of the drug trade. The film examines how the drug war affects individuals at various levels—from law enforcement to drug dealers and their families.

The emotional impact of the film is profound, with its realistic portrayal of the drug trade’s consequences. The storylines are interconnected in a way that emphasizes the systemic nature of the problem and the difficulty of finding effective solutions.

The film also addresses the moral complexities of the drug trade, highlighting the contradictions and compromises faced by those on both sides of the law. The narrative’s multi-layered approach adds depth to the film’s exploration of these themes.

Performances and Direction

Michael Douglas delivers a compelling performance as Justice Robert Wakefield, capturing the character’s internal conflict and growing awareness of the drug trade’s realities. Douglas’s portrayal adds emotional depth to the film and enhances its impact.

Catherine Zeta-Jones provides a strong performance as Helena Ayala, portraying the character’s transformation from a seemingly passive wife to a decisive and ruthless figure in the drug trade. Zeta-Jones’s performance adds complexity to her character and the film’s narrative.

Benicio del Toro delivers a standout performance as Javier Rodriguez, portraying the character with authenticity and depth. Del Toro’s portrayal of Rodriguez’s struggles and moral dilemmas is central to the film’s exploration of the drug trade’s impact.

Steven Soderbergh’s direction is instrumental in shaping the film’s tone and narrative structure. Soderbergh’s use of a multi-layered approach, along with his realistic depiction of the drug trade, creates a powerful and engaging film. His direction effectively balances the different storylines and highlights the film’s thematic elements.

The screenplay, written by Stephen Gaghan, is notable for its intricate storytelling and realistic dialogue. Gaghan’s writing effectively conveys the complexities of the drug trade and the characters’ struggles, contributing to the film’s overall impact.

Cinematography and Music

The cinematography by Peter Andrews (a pseudonym for Steven Soderbergh) is distinctive and visually engaging. The film’s use of different color palettes for each storyline adds to its narrative depth and enhances the viewing experience.

The film’s score, composed by Cliff Martinez, complements the narrative and adds to its emotional resonance. Martinez’s music reinforces the film’s themes and contributes to its overall impact.

Where to Watch “Traffic” Online in the U.S.

For those interested in watching “Traffic,” here are some options to consider for streaming, rental, or purchase in the U.S.:

Streaming Services:

1. Hulu: “Traffic” is available for streaming on Hulu with an active subscription.
2. Amazon Prime Video: The film is available for streaming with a Prime membership or can be rented.

Rental and Purchase Options:

1. Amazon Prime Video: You can rent “Traffic” in HD for approximately $3.99 or purchase it for around $14.99, depending on availability.
2. Google Play Movies & TV: The film may be available for rent or purchase on Google Play, with rental options starting at $3.99 and purchase prices around $14.99.
3. Apple iTunes: On iTunes, “Traffic” can be rented for $3.99 or purchased for $14.99. The film is available in HD, with the option to download for offline viewing.
4. Vudu: Vudu offers both rental and purchase options for “Traffic,” with similar pricing to other platforms. The film supports HDX viewing for high-quality playback.

Conclusion

“Traffic” (2000) is a gripping and multi-layered crime drama that offers a comprehensive and realistic portrayal of the drug trade. With its intricate storytelling, powerful performances, and thought-provoking themes, the film remains a significant work in the genre.

Whether you are interested in its exploration of power and corruption, its interconnected narratives, or its realistic depiction of the drug trade, “Traffic” delivers a compelling and impactful experience. With various streaming and rental options available, it’s accessible for those looking to experience this influential and engaging film.