Knight and Day (2010) Poster

User Reviews

Review this title
387 Reviews
Sort by:
Filter by Rating:
7/10
An entertaining film
md_bunny100314 May 2016
June Havens'(Cameron Diaz) life turns upside down when she meets with secret agent Roy Miller(Tom Cruise) on her way to Boston. Roy is on the run and all the federal agents are after his life. Soon, they realize that the only way out for survival is to depend on each other. Amazing chases, rib smashing fight scenes with absolutely anything on the planet(fists, guns, knives, glasses, seat belts and what not),plenty of comedy and quite a chemistry between the leads.There is absolutely nothing in the world that Roy cannot do. (I feel Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz should make more movies together!) Although most of the action scenes seem a bit too implausible, Tom Cruise manages to pull it off with charisma. Cameron Diaz provides the right amount of laughs with her comic timing. All in all, an entertaining film, if you are looking for a movie with mindless action and some exotic scenery.
11 out of 11 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
7/10
I liked that this movie established character development.
anna-101-42277211 July 2011
"Knight and Day" revolves around Cameron Diaz, who is boarding a plane to see her sister April get married. At first, she is forbidden to board the plane, but then the flight attendant finds a seat for her. And guess who Diaz sits next to? The inevitable Tom Cruise. After having a little "talk" with the pilot, the passengers, and the flight attendant, him and Diaz seek out to hunt down the antagonists, one which is played by Peter Sarsgaard. Although, Cruise warns Diaz that the bad guys will say that they are the "FBI" and will pretend she's in a safe place. However, through further investigation, Diaz may think that Cruise is unto something. In the meantime, the bad guys are looking for the battery and are not too thrilled about who holds its possession.

First, let's get to the positives. First off, I liked that this movie established character development. Most action/comedy films fail to fully flesh out are leads and then we aren't registered with them. 3:10 to Yuma director makes us care about these characters, and when put in a tough situation, we just hope the best. Second of all, I thought the script was great. I thought this movie had some really funny one-liners and the film had great comic timing. It couldn't have been better. Thirdly, I thought that the performances were great. All the characters did their job and even stood out, especially Cameron Diaz and Tom Cruise. Diaz and Cruise also had wonderful chemistry and their relationship never felt forced or phony. It came out as very authentic rather than artificial and syrupy. Moreover, I thought the film's pacing was excellent. The film is shy of two hours, yet feels like half of that. After the film was over, I thought there would be at least another hour added. Furthermore, I thought the action was awesome. It definitely delivered and this is the best action I've seen in a long time. And lastly, the cinematography was just amazing. I loved the scenery and great production values I must add.

There are very minimal flaws with this movie. However, there are some. First of all, I know this film is intentionally nonsensical, but some scenes went so over-the-top, that when it occasionally was meant to be serious, it came off as cheesy or laugh worthy, fortunately, like I said, occasionally. Second of all, I enjoyed this movie so much that I just wish it were longer.

Overall, "Knight and Day" is a great film because of its fresh script, great performances, amazing action, great comic timing, breathtaking cinematography, and a fascinating direction. And for the first time, it's actually not mindless! If you keep your brain on, you'll still thoroughly enjoy it. If you were disappointed by "Killers", don't worry, so was I, because you will still like this movie. Shoot, I enjoyed it so much I think it's even better than "Mr. & Mrs. Smith" which I liked. "Knight and Day" is one of those rare movies that just works on every level and is one of those rare movies that is worth full admission. See it at night with a large crowd, with a big bucket of popcorn, and a drink, and you'll have a blast. I enjoyed the movie so much that I wanted it to last from "Knight" to "Day". It comes highly recommended.
26 out of 29 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
7/10
Not great, but solid fun
ungy35717 June 2010
Knight and Day" is a comfort food movie. It's a pleasant diversion, a fun time at the cinema that doesn't ask a lot of of it's audience and offers an enjoyable ride. We've seen it all before, but it worked pretty well then, and it works pretty well now.

June Havens (Cameron Diaz) is an average perky blonde romantic comedy heroine who runs into the charming and mysterious Roy Miller (Tom Cruise) at the airport, and is sucked into a series of misadventures when Roy turns out to be a secret agent fighting rogue elements in his own agency . . . or maybe HE's the rogue agent . . . It depends on who she listens to. there's a mysterious device called the Zephyr that Roy is either protecting or trying to steal. All of this is fairly predictable, and, again, nothing new. But director James Mangold ("Copland", "Walk the Line", "3:10 to Yuma") always knows how to make a film play, and his skills haven't deserted him here. His pacing is brisk and fun, and he stages some terrific action (including one sequence from Diaz' point of view that did feel genuinely new).

Of course, this is a star vehicle, and whether you enjoy it will depend a lot on how you feel about Tom Cruise. Dismissing his personal life as utterly irrelevant, I find him to be a solid and dependable actor who does action better than almost anyone in Hollywood. And, here, he gets a rare chance to flex his comic muscles, and hie's quite funny (though too much of the best material is in the trailer). Diaz is pleasant, but tries a little too hard to be cute. And, occasionally, the film itself has the same problem.

But, overall, it's a funny little spy movie. part adventure, part romcom. Not destined for any Ten Best Lists, but enjoyable summer entertainment.
240 out of 309 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
Really Like This Film!
m196522 November 2014
I've watched this movie at least three times and I like it more each time I see it. I have no idea why critics tanked it when it first came out. This movie definitely has 'staying power' and the goods.

I've come to really appreciate Tom Cruise's ability to provide some top notch comedy. It's not what he's known for, but man can he deliver some really funny scenes. Point in case, "Tropic Thunder". Cruise was absolutely hilarious in this movie. People who make their living being comedians would be hard pressed to match the level he obtains in that movie. "Edge of Tomorrow" is another. Cruise is a man who can deliver on many different levels when it comes to acting. He does just that in "Knight And Day". Cameron Diaz, who I normally don't like very much - does a very good job in this movie and her chemistry with Cruise is spot on.

This movie delivers a good script, beautiful locations, great acting and intense action. What more could you ask for? I highly recommend this film. It delivers on so many different levels. A great way to spend an evening!
40 out of 44 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
7/10
Fluffy Action Comedy with Appealing Cast
dglink18 December 2014
Although far inferior in both concept and results, "Knight and Day" has its roots in the classic screwball comedies of the 1930's. Cute, seemingly coincidental airport encounters connect an attractive blonde, Cameron Diaz, who is en route to her sister's wedding, with a handsome man of mystery, Tom Cruise, and a series of wildly improbable events ensues. An early scene aboard a near-empty airliner is perhaps the film's highlight, as Cruise does battle with unknown assailants, while a blissfully unaware Diaz primps in the restroom, intent on seducing Cruise. Perhaps if the humor and pace of this scene had been sustained, the film would have been more successful. If Cary Grant were the dashing stranger and Katharine Hepburn the unwitting accomplice, the film would have been classic.

However, while they are attractive leads, Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz are not Grant and Hepburn. Although the pair have undeniable star power and seem to be having fun, their eyes were likely focused more on the paycheck than on the superficial script which lacks the witty exchanges of classic screwball comedy. Also appearing for the money is a talented supporting cast that includes Viola Davis, Peter Sarsgaard, and Paul Dano; unfortunately, none of these gifted performers have roles that stretch their acting skills. With chases, gunfights, and rapid cutting, director James Mangold keeps the film moving at breakneck speed as the cast chases a "McGuffin" in the form of a super battery, whose importance is often lost in the sometimes confusing proceedings.

Although even the classic screwball comedies stretched credibility, Mangold's film uses CGI to create sequences that are beyond preposterous. At times, Cruise seems to be a super-hero with supernatural powers; his close encounters are unbelievable even for a Batman or Fantastic Four. As the complicated plot unfolds, the characters' motivations seem to shift, and the audience is kept guessing as to who can and cannot be trusted and who is working for whom. The action, light comedy, and appealing performers will hold viewer interest throughout, although, like cotton candy, this fluffy piece will fade from memory before the closing credits finish rolling.
32 out of 37 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
7/10
Good comedy with great delivery of lines
salterbach22 June 2010
I saw "Knight and Day" tonight at an advanced screening. I really liked it. For me, I considered it more of a comedy, rather than a thriller. Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz have great chemistry, and did wonderful line deliveries of several running jokes. Their facial expressions, non-verbal actions, and then their unique line delivery - just made everything fit together into a delightful comedy. You will enjoy yourself and laugh out loud. Tom Cruise does a great job of reminding us why we like him as a performer and actor. (Recently, I think too many of us have been side-tracked by his off-camera non-PC comments and antics; so it's good to get back to the basics, that he really is a wonderful actor.) Cameron Diaz is funny, warm,beautiful, and spunky. I loved the way these two actors interacted with each other. Well done. I know another reviewer here kept dropping "Oscar award winning" several times - but for myself, I would not go that far. I don't think this has the emotional depth that you'd think of for an Oscar; but nevertheless, I think this is a delightful funny movie that will make you laugh and enjoy an evening out. I recommend this movie. You will feel good.
139 out of 202 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
7/10
A collage of mayhem, action, flaws, and charm, Knight and Day is saved by the leads and unique summer freshness
diac22823 June 2010
Jump-starting the Mysterious Plot Summer Season (Knight and Day, Salt, Inception, Piranha 3-D), Knight and Day is quite an interesting thrill ride that's very fresh in the midst of a summer season with very little originality. With the two leads delivering charismatic, fun, and great performances, this movie is propelled by star power, intrigue, and never allowing the audience to be one step ahead of the flick. The twists and turns may have been a little unnerving, and the movie does suffer from being quite vague at times, the overall package is a fun one. Unlike most summer clunkers (there was some robot movie last year that was dismally pathetic, if only I remember the name) this one is forgivable for its flaws because of its style, loose direction, and freshness.

Without revealing too much (trust me, predicting the movie from the trailer will do you no good), Knight and Day follows a secret agent (Tom Cruise) that accidentally involves a bystander (Cameron Diaz) in the middle of a crazy fight spanning multiple agencies and multiple countries. Written by Patrick O'Neal, this script is very unique, very refreshing, and at times quite off-the-wall. The story moves very fast, but has time for some character development and character revelations—even if they become little blurbs here and there. The only issue is that characters are revealed in such quick and awkward manners, but it might be more an editing issue rather than a writing issue.

Cameron Diaz and Tom Cruise were perfect for their leading roles here. Cameron Diaz has an undeniable charm that has made her not only a major box office draw over the years, but one of the few actresses that can carry any movie past mediocrity. At the same time, Tom Cruise also has the ability to propel movies with his impeccable charm and subtle timing. So, naturally, with these two together, movie magic is accomplished. Just like in Vanilla Sky (even if the editing and obscurity allowed the movie to collapse), Knight and Day is jump-started and propelled by Diaz and Cruise acting together. Their comic timing is great, and can still deliver the emotions when you need them to. Everyone else did a respectable job, but they consisted of dozens of small roles.

The movie however suffers from one major flaw: potential. This movie could have been something very special if it had been given a little more love, a bit more budget, and better editing. James Mangold is heavily varied in his directing resume (Cop Land, Walk the Line, Identity, 3:10 to Yuma) so he has the ability to run an action film (unlike the indie-director of the last James Bond flick). But, the movie does this mildly irritating thing in which it sets up potential action sequences, but skips them entirely. While the movie does offer plenty of action, this irritating directing/editing blunder was done at least three times. The fact that it could have done so much more doesn't distract from the overall quality, but does unveil its potential. With a budget of over $120 million, Knight and Day looks like an action movie that was running out of cash.

The action that we do get to see is plentiful, and fun. Plausibility and realism takes a timeout as we get insane chases, dozens of explosions, and plenty of fights. There is very little slowdown, very little time for the audience to breathe. The CGI is sometimes a bit much, but doesn't distract too much from the movie. Adding to the mayhem is the dozens of plot twists and turns, which range from small, to changing the flick entirely. Unfortunately, it seems like it was edited by someone with a samurai sword and too much sugar in his blood.

Bottom Line: While it could have been so much more, and could have really been something truly special, Knight and Day is still an admirable movie thanks to its leads---even if age is starting to catch up to them. With a crazy script edited in a crazy manner, this movie is far from your average summer movie, and is a mildly refreshing visual trip around the world. No sequel or remake connections here, as the plot is unique, even if the action is your usual CGI-heavy fare. The directing, editing, and content choices however keep it from truly hitting the big leagues. But if you want something different and sequel-free to watch this summer (without screaming for mercy as the movie continues), then Knight and Day is your flick. Unique concept, unique movie, unique flaws.
151 out of 221 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
8/10
Worth watching
carlin6580-679-39612320 July 2014
Great blend of action and comedy. I never felt that the humor and the small bit of romance (that they had to throw in to make the relationship between the two protagonists believable) detracted from the action. It seemed that every time I was about to think "when's the next action scene" the movie would stop the thought with a well timed laugh or another action sequence making me never feel like I was waiting for the story or the action to resume.

It was also refreshing to see Tom Cruise play a part that wasn't meant to be almost completely emotionally impotent. I've never before seen him play a character where his face actually SHOWED such a full spectrum of emotions. Cameron Diaz also runs a gamut of emotional and psychological states as she progresses from the sheltered, Midwestern blonde who's in way over her head to the semi-savvy (albeit awkward) companion/sidekick of a rogue spy trying to clear his name.

I found myself applauding at the end.
60 out of 62 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
3/10
Safety, Security, Stupidity
ferguson-628 June 2010
Greetings again from the darkness. I really liked director James Mangold's two most recent films - Walk the Line, and 3:10 to Yuma. Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz both have great smiles and look really good in swim attire. Paul Dano (There Will Be Blood, Little Miss Sunshine) is well cast as an off-center nerdy scientist. That's the end of all the positive comments I have for this film.

The negative comments are for just about everything else in this summer "blockbuster". It is billed as an Action-Comedy. There is plenty of action, though much of it is so far-fetched and ridiculous. There is almost no comedy. The rapid fire banter between Cruise and Diaz would have been much more effective had it been well written.

A quality action movie needs a real force coming from the bad guy. Here, the filmmakers instead provide us with a "is he a good guy or a bad guy" story line with Cruise. Anyone surprised at the real answer? Because of that, we don't have anyone to root against. Some generic Spainish arms dealer played by Jordi Molla (Blow) and the government agent played generically by Peter Saarsgard. Generic is not a word you want associated with your movie.

This is Cruise and Diaz together for the first time since the far-superior Vanilla Sky. They both deserve better than this slop, though I feel confident they had a good time with the globe-trotting to Spain, Austria, Jamaica and a few U.S. stops in between. The fun they had filming did not translate into fun for me as a viewer. In fact, as they were driving away, I kept hoping for an ending like Thelma and Louise.
154 out of 312 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
8/10
Very entertaining
melanie-pansy20 October 2014
This movie was very entertaining. It was a fun, action-packed romantic comedy. It did not do well at the box office domestically because U.S film critics were harsh, but it performed superbly in the international market. International films fans understood to not take it too seriously. Both Tom and Cameron performed well in their roles. They had some adorably funny lines to deliver. Regardless of what is in the gossip columns on these actors, they are good, great actors depending on the roles and scripts they are given. If you want to see a nice escape from reality type movie, watch this one. About 2 weeks after I purchased the three disc combo, I enjoyed the extended version as well. I appreciate that Amazon was offering that bonus, and it's a great way for them to introduce their Video On Demand services.
49 out of 53 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
1/10
What were they thinking!!!
AncientWays26 June 2010
I can't imagine how this got past the studio bosses, or who took a look at the finished screenplay (after all the rewrites and different writers) and said "This is great!

Tired spy story remake, bad plot with huge holes in it; the title is never even explained. Terrible "witty" dialogue that no one would say in real life, and a body count in the hundreds.

However the main, huge, turnoff for me was the "running joke" of the Diaz character being drugged, undressed and dressed, to wake up in another country because "she wasn't handling" the carnage well. Drugging and dragging an unconscious woman without her permission and consent across borders is not "romantic", it's human trafficking. It just makes Tom Cruise and his movie character more creepy.

As for the rest, imagine a joke told by someone with no sense of humor, and romance between two cardboard figures. For those who like such things, there are lots of gunshots, dead bodies and explosions.
87 out of 173 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
Enjoyable
jjhoops713 November 2021
I mean this movie was never going to win any awards, but that doesn't mean it's not a hell of a good time. Cruise is at his charismatic best, and he shows off some genuine comedic chops. Diaz is a charming and funny co-star. This film is great because it feels light on its feet. It's fast-paced, funny, action packed, and doesn't get bogged down in weighty, manufactured drama or overly convoluted plotting. Knight and Day achieves what it set out to do, and that's why I like it.
28 out of 30 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
7/10
Cameron Diaz and Tom Cruise have a blast in the nonsensical "Knight and Day"
ScottDMenzel15 December 2010
"Knight and Day" tells the story of June Havens (Cameron Diaz) a woman who is just trying to get home for her sisters wedding. When June arrives to the airport, a man named Roy (Tom Cruise) bumps into her. What seems like an innocent accident turns into something more as Roy tries to keep June from boarding her flight home. When he fails from keeping June from boarding the plane is where the fun begins. While June heads to the airplane bathroom to powder her nose, we find out that the entire plane is full of armed men wanting to arrest and/or kill Roy. Roy takes out the armed men and now warns June that there was a reason he didn't want her to board the plane. Now, Roy and June must join forces and work together to protect a new invention that's so big that even the FBI wants a part of the action. A nonsensical but action packed and fun movie ensues...

Within the first 20 minutes of "Knight and Day" I knew why people hated this movie. First off, it makes very little sense and its really out there. Don't get me wrong, this is a really fun movie but don't expect to "get" it because it doesn't make any sense. The action sequences are over the top, Diaz and Cruise look like they are having a blast the entire time, and the movie is somehow interesting despite the plot making no sense. It's a brainless summer movie with some dark humor tossed into the mix. Not what you would expect from the normal Tom Cruise action flick and therefore why people didn't enjoy it that much.

While there are a lot of names in this film, Cruise and Diaz are the main stars and everyone else seems virtually unimportant. Cruise does a great job on this film with playing a wacky FBI rogue agent. He really uses his action star skills along with his comedic skills in this flick. Diaz, besides coming off as a brainless ditz, is fun to watch on screen. She really plays the clueless role in the film well and looks like she is having a ton of fun while doing it. I enjoyed watching her and Cruise because they have some really solid chemistry and know how to play off one another. The supporting cast consists of pretty solid actors although they are underused including Peter Sarsgaard and Viola Davis.

The screenplay for "Knight and Day" was written by Patrick O'Neill, who hasn't written much besides a television series called "Dead Last." The script didn't lack action nor did it lack comedy, however, it did lack common sense. This movie made no sense and I really had a ton of plot holes. If you watch the movie you will wonder how can they get all these places so fast? How can they avoid being shot so many times? How is there no one flying this plane? How does Cruise jump from car to car when they are going 75 miles an hour? Those are just a few of the questions I have with the film. I also have questions about the plot, which has to do with a high school drop out who invented a top secret energy source that is the size of a battery. Why do so many people know about this? Why is it so valuable? And there are plenty more questions but hey this truly puts the title of mindless action flick to good use.

The oddest thing about the film to me was that it was directed by James Mangold. For those who aren't familiar with the name, he is the man who directed "Walk the Line," the western remake "3:10 to Yuma," and the intelligent and underrated thriller "Identity." This movie just seemed like a odd choice for Mangold because he usually does dramas with some light action mixed in. This film was an action comedy and definitely not something Mangold has a lot of experience with. He did a fairly decent job with the film and really helped make sure Cruise and Diaz had fun with the film and looked good doing it.

At the end of the day, I wouldn't say I loved "Knight and Day" but than again I don't usually love any action comedy. It was completely nonsensical but it was a fun and enjoyable action flick. It's not your typical action movie because it mixed a bit of dark and demented humor. Its plot makes no sense and nothing about the film is serious at all. Everyone is acting goofy and looks like they are having fun working on the film. I liked it but that's because I appreciated it for what it was. People expecting the typical action film will probably not like it as much as they would like and those who want to see it for the comedy aspect alone will probably be a tad disappointed as well. I can see how this had mixed reviews and mixed audience reactions. Its not for everyone but for those who are bored with the typical action film nonsense, you may like this one. It's a fun action packed ride, that's for sure! MovieManMenzel's final rating for "Knight and Day" is a 7 out of 10.
4 out of 4 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
7/10
Cute and fun
NS-movie-reviews24 September 2022
"Knight and Day" is an entertaining romantic comedy with a fun premise and likeable characters. It is sweet, fun, and worth the watch.

It's got that quintessential 2010's feeling of just being a movie that's made to be enjoyed. It's got a lot of action (Tom Cruise stunts galore), some romantic chemistry, some great comedic scenes, and some beautiful locations! The dialogue is snappy and funny even while being a bit cheesy.

Are there plot holes? Yes. Many. Are there moments that are a little too silly to be written off entirely? Yes. But is this movie a quick, sweet, charming story that delivers? Also yes.
3 out of 3 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
8/10
Action-packed comedy with a punch!
paul_haakonsen30 October 2010
I was sort of influenced by the somewhat bad reviews I had read about this movie, but decided to watch it anyway, because both Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz usually make good movies. So I sat down and watched it, and I am glad that I did.

There is action all throughout the movie, from the beginning till the very end, and it is the sort of action that is in your face and keeps your adrenalin pumping without being too much over the edge. And the action scenes were well choreographed and worked well.

Also, the comedy in the movie was well used at the right times, adding a lot of flavor to the movie. This aspect gave the movie so much charm and it worked wonderfully. Both Cruise and Diaz were good with these comedy twists.

The story is pretty straight forward and easy to follow, leaving some up for you to guess and speculate about, and that was good.

As for the cast, well as always, Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz put on magnificent work. I personally think that this is actually one of Tom Cruise's best movies. But of course, we all have our own preferences. The supporting cast also did well.

My friend said that this movie seemed like an imitation of the "Mission Impossible" movies, but I think it is in a whole other league. This one is an action-comedy while the others are pure action.

This movie is good for an evenings entertainment with lots of action and laughs. And the chemistry between Cruise and Diaz makes it worth it just for that alone. If you haven't seen this movie already, get to it!
55 out of 63 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
7/10
Its not as bad as critics says.. Confusing and unrealistic yet quite entertaining
saadgkhan19 September 2010
KNIGHT AND DAY – CATCH IT ( B+ ) Knight and Day, well I've been waiting for this movie ever since it's in the making and when it came out, I heard the negative reviews. I was surprised as it has the biggest stars of Hollywood it can't be that bad. After watching the movie now I know why critics are so negative about it because the script or story line of the movie is really childish. You don't expect such plot line from Tom Cruise or Cameron Diaz. Still it doesn't mean it doesn't work, it actually work perfectly because once you get the story it's easy to buy the movie further. Knight and Day starts off really confusing and unrealistic plus the plane crash and then car chase sequences seems over the top. (Though they were brilliantly shot). Later on there are nonstop action sequences and the end action sequence within the Bull race in Spain is just simply Jaw Dropping. Tom Cruise is charismatic and Cameron Diaz is cheerful and their chemistry is the total base of the movie. Maggie Grace, Marc Blucas, Paul Dano, Viola Davis were wasted and Peter Sarsgaard is OK as always. (I always found him incredibly boring actor) They make it work big time plus the heavy larger than life action sequences makes it really treat to watch. I think if they worked a little more on the story it could have been a brilliant entertainer like Mr. and Mrs. Smith but still nonetheless it is quite entertaining. Watch it you won't disappoint and Tom Cruise haters should take rest now, leave him Alone!
5 out of 6 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Best spy movie
isaaccobrien23 June 2018
I saw this with a friend. We both loved it. I ended up buying the movie. I love both of the actors in this. And, it has great comedy. If you like action packed comedies, knight and day is perfect for you.
42 out of 50 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
7/10
Vacation time
kosmasp21 October 2010
I had seen an interview with Cameron Diaz and Tom Cruise, while they were shooting this movie. And one thing became apparent (which also is very much apparent in the movie): They had lots of fun doing the movie. And while it does have quite a few flaws (story/continuity-wise and so forth), you could just sit back and relax a movie, that just wants to entertain.

Not all jokes work (for me), especially a pay off, at the end of the movie, delivered by Camerons, just feels too forced, but all in all, this was entertaining enough. Just try not to think too much about it and let this warm-up for M:I 4 (at least for Tom Cruise) do the job for you. Yes you can and some probably will hate it (and it's completely understandable), but I let my doubts (even after watching it) aside and gave it 7 instead of 6 out of 10 ...
9 out of 13 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
Over the top, corny, but entertaining
antonjsw130 December 2011
While not a success at US cinemas, the film performed very well overseas and is enjoyable romp, which does not take itself too seriously. Despite the fact that the film's script went through as many as ten different writers, the final script, no doubt with the director James Mangold having a pretty big influence, is fun and entertaining, despite some typical tent-pole summer release plot contrivances (most notably a crass attempt at playing a plane crash for laughs, and silly plot twist at the end of the film that leads to a corny and stereotypical climax).

These weaknesses are largely offset by fun performance of Tom Cruise, who is very good in the role of a darker, shiftier, wittier and a more morally ambiguous version of his Ethan Hunt persona from Mission Impossible. He handles himself very well throughout the film and his character makes for a good foil for Cameron Diaz , who has fun playing a car mechanic version of Cameron Diaz. The trajectory of her character in the film is far too obvious, but despite this there is a lot of fun to be had watching her get there, and the on screen chemistry between her and Cruise is charming and draws the audience along.

The plot, as I have already mentioned is hardly original, but despite the aforementioned problems it is pretty impressive for one that has gone through a whole slew of writers. Normally these scripts come out very bad. Director James Mangold is the individual who deserves credit for fashioning the script into an entertaining and satisfying caper film, even if the fate of Peter Sarsgaard (the CIA/NSA type operative sent to apprehend/kill the Tom Cruise character, and who is pretty good in the role) is obvious almost within the first ten minutes of the movie.

Action sequences are well handled, (kudos to second unit director Brian Smrz)and the digital visual effects are by and large pretty good, being handled by a variety of different companies. Editing is polished , and Jon Powell's score helps keep the proceedings brisk and enjoyable, and there are subtlety amusing nods to both Bourne and Bond in the music. Director Mangold, as usual, marshals all these elements together with style and panache to produce a slick, fun final product that while hardly original, is very enjoyable and leaves you feeling emotionally satisfied when it is over.

This is a film that if you simply allow yourself to lap up the experience, will find it to be a fun and entertaining experience, albeit hardly a profound one.
22 out of 25 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
6/10
Brainless and Forgettable Adventure
claudio_carvalho28 December 2010
While waiting for her flight to Boston at the Wichita Airport, June Havens (Cameron Diaz) is bumped by a stranger twice. Then she has trouble to embark in the aircraft but she finally gets a seat in the plane. During the flight, she learns that the stranger is the former agent Roy Miller (Tom Cruise) that is under FBI surveillance and has just killed everybody on board including the two pilots, who were agents trying to arrest him. Roy lands the plane in a cornfield and tells June that she is in danger; then she faints under the influence of the drug Roy secretly gave to her. On the next morning, June awakes at home and sooner she is abducted by FBI agents. But Roy rescues her and tells that he is protecting a powerful source of energy and its inventor Simon Feck (Paul Dano) from the rogue agent Fitzgerald (Peter Sarsgaard) that has framed him and from a powerful drug dealer and they want the invent to sell it. But when June overhears a conversation of Roy with a woman, she questions whether he is telling the truth or not.

"Knight and Day" is a brainless and forgettable adventure that uses all possible clichés to entertain despite the countless flaws in the story. The 1.75 m height Cameron Diaz is a good comedian and "steals" the film. The 1.70 m height Tom Cruise insists in performing this type of character but could be a reasonable action hero if he were 20 cm taller. My vote is six.

Title (Brazil): "Encontro Explosivo" ("Explosive Encounter")
23 out of 44 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
7/10
Very amusing action comedy thriller
Luigi Di Pilla19 December 2010
I found this movie much more better than Mr. and Mrs. Smith starring Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie.

I was very impressed by the high pace in this action comedy. I mean it happened every time something and it was never boring. I was also surprised about the many strong action parts. The executed stunts by Tom Cruise were really great. I think that all the crew must have benefited from the knowledge of Tom Cruise experienced in his Mission Impossible series. The dialogs were funny and some slapstick scenes reminded me the James Bond films. James Mangold directed very well. The places and the sceneries were well chosen and the pictures were superb too.

I spent an entertaining Saturday evening and I had great fun. I rate it 7 but my wife 4 out of ten.
4 out of 5 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
7/10
sufs
bjones26 June 2010
I want to inject a new word into the English language because I've seen it much displayed recently. SUFS; pronounced "soofuss". It means something in the entertainment world that has been "set up for a sequel". This film is a good example; but that doesn't offend when the item "works". This works.

I expected some light summer entertainment and wasn't disappointed. I would have preferred seeing this in a different presentation, like B&W film noir, that would have made it even more fun. The story is a very well thought satirish thing that doesn't take itself too seriously. Examples abound but for easy examples, to me, was when the female lead - Cameron Diaz as June Haven - managed to coax about 400 rounds out of a 20 round magazine in an automatic weapon and the bit in riding reversed on a motorcycle; both were great.

Speaking of Diaz, she did a pretty good job with what she was given, which was to portray a simple minded "civilian" caught up in amazing events. She had a few slow spots but nothing too distracting. She was funny as the frequently unconscious, unwilling victim.

Tom Cruise as Roy Miller did a wonderful turn as the machine like, near-psychopathic spy. He seemed at his best when being the most ridiculous. He did the physical parts well and handled the silly dialog with a straight face so I guess I'd give him an A for the genre. He seems to be getting better as his roles edge closer to character types.

Peter Sarsgaard, usually so stunning in what he does, is underfed script here so doesn't shine as much as one might expect, but he chews it well and doesn't offend in expectorating the resultant quiet type. What he does, he does extremely well. The unusual appearing Paul Dano as Simon Feck did nerds everywhere a service by not overdoing it while keeping up the charade.

The only other two roles that caught my attention, were Viola Davis as Sarsgaard's boss, doing it while looking elegant and professionally competent. The other is not likely to go much noticed by anyone but me, it was the straight performance by Dale Dye in a role far removed from his usual exploits. It's nice to see a solid old Jarhead doing well . . . [; ) An honorable mention goes to the lady with the legs approaching Tom in a dark alley. We don't see her face but the legs are enough to be memorable. A short few frames later we see the stunning Israeli Gal Gadot, so the legs are supposed to be hers.

You won't feel cheated seeing it; it might even be a fun night.

Bruce L. Jones http://webpages.charter.net/bruce.jones1/
4 out of 5 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
8/10
Jolly Good Action/Romance/Comedy/Entertainment
gradyharp1 December 2010
KNIGHT AND DAY as written by Patrick O'Neill and directed by James Mangold is a terrific escapist diversion of a film. No, it is not a great movie worthy of Oscar attention nor does it pretend to be. This is just a fast moving, clever, surprising, high-speed chase of a spy thriller that provides two hours of fine entertainment.

Roy Miller (Tom Cruise, back in his element) is a spy on the run, attempting to prevent the European bad guys (headed by Jordi Mollà) from capturing a new battery of endless life and power created by nerdy student Simon Feck (Paul Dano). In the film's opening segments Roy meets the beautiful June Havens (Cameron Diaz) while boarding a plane and from this innocent beginning Cruise and Diaz begin a treacherous ride through airplane hijacking, explosions, car chases, captures and gun battles - all the while Diaz' June appears to have no clue to the magnitude of the situation. The confusing aspect of June's dilemma is her instructions by the FBI (Peter Sarsgaard, Viola Davis et al) to avoid contact with Roy who they claim is psychotic. The film delves into family (Celia Weston as Roy's Mother, Maggie Grace as June's soon-to-be-wed sister, and the always excellent Marc Blucas as June's old fireman boyfriend), falling in love, and the underside of government intervention and just seems to have a ball with every twist in the story.

Cruise and Diaz create a terrific screen presence - two actors who understand drama and comedy and romance - and they are supported by an exceptional cast. This is a well-made film on every level and should be watched for the fun of it!

Grady Harp
16 out of 18 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
7/10
Better than I expected
ChrisinDesMoines23 May 2019
This is a pretty funny movie. The action isn't exactly edge of your seat material but the two make a good pair.

If I'm gonna try to classify it I would say it's somewhere between James Bond and Moonlighting. Not quite as much action and gizmos as your standard Bond flick but more romance between the two, but not as much romance as moonlighting.

I would consider it a great date night movie, not overloaded with the typical romcom story line but enough to keep those who enjoy romance movies itch scratched with enough action and adventure to keep most Stallone or Schwarzenegger fans happy.
4 out of 5 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
5/10
Stupid Fun
SnoopyStyle6 October 2013
Roy Miller (Tom Cruise) is a mysterious secret agent. June Havens (Cameron Diaz) is an everywoman who's trying to get to her sister April (Maggie Grace)'s wedding. Then the two characters get tangled up in a flight.

Almost none of it made sense. The more you think about it, the less reasonable it is. Why would they let her on the plane? Why would he keep trying to involve himself with her? Don't think about any of it or you'll get a headache.

It's best to turn your brain off. Once you do that, this is a watchable action farce. The chemistry between Cruise and Diaz is artificial, but they're good enough actors to play. And sure they're playing here. It's playing fun and games. Nothing serious. I won't recommend it, but it's not the worse thing in the world.
15 out of 25 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
An error has occured. Please try again.

See also

Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews


Recently Viewed