In "Natural Born Killers" (a film I didn't enjoy, and NOT because I thought that it was too violent), he got really creative with his use of the camera(s), and for that, I give him credit. In "U-Turn," he sorta does the same thing. He uses quick cuts, extreme close-ups, unusual camera angles, and all that MTV-type stuff. I think that it worked out well for the film, though.
This is a very well-acted movie. Everyone was flawless. But the one actor you'll remember the most is Billy Bob Thornton as the car mechanic from Hell. His scenes are without a doubt the best in the movie. It was really funny stuff. Also, the scenes with Claire Danes and Joaquin Phoenix are a riot. Most guys will enjoy Jennifer Lopez's scenes. She has a certain (ahem!) aesthetic appeal.
Much has been said about this movie's violence, but I didn't think that it was all that violent. Towards the end it got bloody, but I don't see what the fuss is all about. I dunno, maybe I've grown immune to it all.
There's a cameo in "U-turn" that's very surprising. It's surprising to the point that it was probably inappropriate. I'm just letting you know to keep your eyes open (especially when Sean Penn is in the bus station).
In short,
I enjoyed the movie. I've read reviews from other critics, and it seems
as though I'm alone on this one. I mean, don't walk in expecting "Schindler's
List." This is Oliver Stone taking a break from his preaching so he can
have a little fun.
Scale of 1-10: 7