Director Dominic Sena has created a highly stylised, edge-of-your-seat thriller in Swordfish that remains hugely entertaining thanks to its technical flare and the skill of its stars.
Hugh Jackman delivers a magnetic, smouldering performance as a charmingly unscrupulous agent who drags his team into an impossible heist.
John Travolta also flexes his sinister muscles in a role that chews up the scenery.
But it is Halle Berry's masterful performance as a mysterious woman who shatters expectations that anchors the chemistry and tension. Her action scenes were astonishing.
The special effects in the heist scenes broke new ground with their kinetic energy and seamless blend of practical and digital effects. Sena's pacing is adept at keeping the twists and turns.
Though a few plot holes keep it from classic status, Swordfish was a popcorn delight and showed what Hollywood machismo and technical prowess can do when you're looking for coolness rather than credulity.
Its style over substance worked: audiences gobbled it up to the tune of $146 million worldwide. A shining example of 90s fun and action. Sena pushed the boundaries and delivered non-stop thrills.
Swordfish received mixed reviews from critics, but audiences enthusiastically embraced Sena's stylish direction.
It grossed over $147 million worldwide on a budget of $65 million, making it a box-office hit.
The sizzling chemistry between Jackman and Berry, combined with impressive effects work, kept audiences hooked throughout the summer of 2001.
Although it was overlooked by the big awards, Travolta was nominated for an MTV Movie Award for Best Villain, proving that his acting chops were being recognised.
