Face/Off
Paramount Pictures | Release Date: June 27, 1997
8.8
USER SCORE
Universal acclaim based on 727 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
656
Mixed:
42
Negative:
29
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User Reviews

User scoreBy dateMost helpful
10
RobwinzDec 11, 2020
Face/Off is actually a brilliant movie and it's honestly a masterpiece and a half. The movie's got such an amazing story with such a strong script.

The movie's got some brilliant performances from all of the cast, especially from TroyFace/Off is actually a brilliant movie and it's honestly a masterpiece and a half. The movie's got such an amazing story with such a strong script.

The movie's got some brilliant performances from all of the cast, especially from Troy (Nicholas Cage) and Sean (John Travolta). Those two are honestly amazing in their roles throughout this movie.

The dialogue which is given from each character throughout this movie is all honestly very strong dialogue. All of the dialogue is beautifully received and given from each character in this movie.

Also, the movie's got some brilliant humour from start to finish throughout this movie. All of the humour throughout this movie always hits and it never fails, especially from Nicholas Cage, he's honestly hilarious.

The movie's got some brilliant pacing towards each main moment, which ends up happening throughout this movie. Also, all of the scenes are all well built up and non of them feel rushed or too slow in any sort of way.

The cinematography from the two cinematographers called Gary Capo and Oliver Wood both do a brilliant job on capturing these moments so well.

Finally, the action sequences throughout this movie are all well choreographed. They're also very entertaining to watch when they happen and they're all well built up with the brilliant pacing.

The makeup artist who's called Tate Steinsiek does such a brilliant job on making the graphic look come to life. He makes it look so realistic and he did such a great job on making it look the way it does.

Overall, Face/Off is actually a brilliant movie and it's even a masterpiece and a half. The movie's got such an amazing story, brilliant performances, strong dialogue, brilliant humour, brilliant pacing, brilliant cinematography, well choreographed action sequences and a brilliant makeup artist.

I'd honestly recommend Face/Off if you're wanting to watch a brilliant Action/Crime movie. This is the one for you, it's honestly worth the watch.… Expand
21 of 21 users found this helpful210
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10
Appendage7Jan 16, 2020
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Nicolas Cage and John Travolta spent two weeks together before filming to learn how to play each other. They decided on specific gestures and vocal cadences for each character that could be mimicked… Expand
17 of 17 users found this helpful170
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10
AssonanceMay 4, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Audio/visual unsynchronised (around 14 mins) Near the beginning of the film, when Castor Troy turns round and sees his brother Pollux Troy being pinned down by cops, the camera zooms in on Pollux's face as he shouts "CAS!". However judging by the lip movement and expression of Pollux, it's obvious that the word was dubbed over the video.… Expand
16 of 16 users found this helpful160
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10
Obstinate177May 14, 2021
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16 of 16 users found this helpful160
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10
Spar154May 9, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A brilliant film that serves as a showcase for acting talents

I loved this movie as it not only has brilliant action moments but it also gives John Travolta and Nicholas Cage a chance to display their fantastic acting talents.Travolta plays Sean Archer,a member of the FBI who has been trying to take down Castor Troy(Cage)in revenge for the unintentional murder of his son.After catching up with Castor,Sean does enough to put him into a coma.However,Castor left a few surprises and Sean is forced to take Castor's face in order to infiltrate a prison and to retrieve codes from Castor's brother Pollux (Alessandro Nivola)in order to stop a bomb going off. When Castor wakea from his coma, he realises what has happened to his face and forces the medical team to graft Sean's face onto his.He then destroys the evidence.What follows is a lot of action set pieces as Cage battles to get his face,and his life back from Travolta.

Firstly,John Woo has done an amazing job directing this. The way that he can make something so ugly like a gunfight seem so beautiful (see shootout in Castor's pad). Also the camera angles are not too hectic and all over the place like in most action movies but always give you the best view and this makes the action scenes a joy to watch.

Secondly, both leads are amazing in this film and in my opinion this film mainly serves as a showcase for Travolta and cage's acting talents. They play both parts brilliantly. Travolta succeeds more in playing the bad guy relishing that more than the family man and Cage plays both family man and cold blooded killer amazingly. The supporting cast are all phenomenal too and do great jobs.

I give this movie a 10/10, it is a joy to watch and also has a lot of memorable quotes "I could eat a peach for hours."… Expand
15 of 15 users found this helpful150
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10
mikeonkokNov 14, 2013
My favorite movie....................................................................................................................
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ace cuts no doubt.

it really is 2good

great film

like i said my favorite of all time no joke no doubts true stuff… Expand
197 of 200 users found this helpful1973
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9
Gripa1992Dec 31, 2012
The fact that this movie is listed as a crime thriller is a crime in of itself, because Face/Off is easily one of the best comedies the 1990's has to offer. The movie is full of so many insane elements that are so damaging to the senses, it'sThe fact that this movie is listed as a crime thriller is a crime in of itself, because Face/Off is easily one of the best comedies the 1990's has to offer. The movie is full of so many insane elements that are so damaging to the senses, it's impossible to turn away. Based solely on the merit of comic relief and sheer entertainment, Face/Off scores a 9 in my book for reasons that are beyond our tangible world.… Expand
56 of 57 users found this helpful561
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9
Compi24Nov 25, 2013
Poetically violent action, magnetically brilliant lead performances, and an undeniably ingenious premise culminate in John Woo's "Face/Off," an action movie that never ceased to impress, entertain, and fulfill my hopeless masculine dreams.
55 of 56 users found this helpful551
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9
ingie44Mar 29, 2014
Ha! I love this film. Nic cage actually rides a burning boat THROUGH another BURNING BOaT! How can anyone not love that? Best Nic Cage film hands down.
53 of 54 users found this helpful531
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10
Zanessa250QIJul 24, 2015
....................................................................................................................................95,96 and 97's are the peak of carrer of cage.............. Face/Off is an awesome thriller of action and in....................................................................................................................................95,96 and 97's are the peak of carrer of cage.............. Face/Off is an awesome thriller of action and in the same year Cage did the spectacular Con Air both of 97's Exactly one year after the Masterpiece "The Rock 1996"… Expand
43 of 44 users found this helpful431
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10
mtackett11Dec 11, 2015
Innovative story, breathtaking action and some memorable characters make Face Off a real classic. Travolta and Cage put on a show and John Woo's action is breathtaking.
43 of 44 users found this helpful431
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9
The3AcademySinsJun 7, 2016
One of the most fun, entertaining, and surprisingly touching action movies that I have ever seen! I had a blast while I was watching this with my friends. If you are looking for an amazing 1990s action movie, look no further. I wish that theOne of the most fun, entertaining, and surprisingly touching action movies that I have ever seen! I had a blast while I was watching this with my friends. If you are looking for an amazing 1990s action movie, look no further. I wish that the fight scene at the end of The Revenant was like the final fight in Face/Off.… Expand
35 of 36 users found this helpful351
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10
clinteastwooMay 11, 2016
........................................................................................................................................................Very good Sci Fi Flick Action
34 of 35 users found this helpful341
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10
ericaNov 20, 2010
movies too often try to be realistic, the big brother of movie form. Face off, is a movie that moves beyond realism to the sublimely ridiculous. The fantasy of a five year old on crack. What sort of genuisly muddled mind come up with a plotmovies too often try to be realistic, the big brother of movie form. Face off, is a movie that moves beyond realism to the sublimely ridiculous. The fantasy of a five year old on crack. What sort of genuisly muddled mind come up with a plot that simutaneoulsy dumbs and enthrawls a watchers mind? John Travolta shines in a way you would never expect, but possibly this means he shines in nicholas cages skin. How am i to review when i am so confused. This confusion is the genuis, the genuis is the twist and turn the yes and the no of the watchers mind. The idea of identity, the idea of it being lost with ones name and body, the value of face. The value of ones face lost. What is really important? what really are you beyond the skin, face off to your expectactions, face off to the revelations, face off, because this movie asks, beyond face, what do you have to prove?… Expand
66 of 68 users found this helpful662
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10
diogomendesAug 7, 2014
Basically, this movie is just extraordinary. Nicolas Cage and John Travolta are top-notch and the story is also pleasant. A great achievement for Hollywood.
66 of 68 users found this helpful662
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10
masudaly103Oct 9, 2014
This is hands down one of the best action movies ever made in America. The actors get into their respective roles and play them like a charm. Tremendous action sequences. Tremendous screenplay. Tremendous writing. If the sight of a bald manThis is hands down one of the best action movies ever made in America. The actors get into their respective roles and play them like a charm. Tremendous action sequences. Tremendous screenplay. Tremendous writing. If the sight of a bald man kissing his sister doesn't bother you, or even if it does, I'd say you better watch this film as this is a must watch!… Expand
66 of 68 users found this helpful662
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10
Paratroop62May 13, 2015
Face/Off is a modern masterpiece in a nutshell for those who have seen it and those who haven't.
Cage and Travolta are brilliant, the action choreography is astonishing and the plot is ingeniously
sublime. Face/Off is an action fans dreamFace/Off is a modern masterpiece in a nutshell for those who have seen it and those who haven't.
Cage and Travolta are brilliant, the action choreography is astonishing and the plot is ingeniously
sublime. Face/Off is an action fans dream come true and personally I think it is the best action thriller John
Woo has made in his career.… Expand
67 of 70 users found this helpful673
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10
ExcommunicadoJan 18, 2020
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. After escaping from the prison, Archer steals a beige Volvo. In The Rock (1996), Nicolas Cage's character says he drives a beige Volvo. In Con Air (1997), the second of the "trilogy," Cameron Poe drops the dead body of "Pinball" from the plane, and it falls onto a beige Volvo.… Expand
21 of 22 users found this helpful211
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10
RindApr 23, 2021
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16 of 17 users found this helpful161
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10
ConsortApr 24, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The jump from the oil rig was 70 feet. They called in a stuntman who specialized in high dives.… Expand
16 of 17 users found this helpful161
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10
Chassis28May 7, 2021
Nick Cassavetes (Dietrich) would direct Dominique Swain (Jamie) in Alpha Dog (2006) 9 years later.
16 of 17 users found this helpful161
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10
Veranda44May 9, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. In the film, Castor Troy gives Sean Archer's daughter a balisong knife. In Kick-Ass (2010), Nicolas Cage's character gives his daughter two balisong knives.… Expand
15 of 16 users found this helpful151
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10
Maxilla328May 14, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Costume designer Ellen Mirojnick made over 200 boots for the movie - some metal, some plastic. The metal boots weighed about 25 pounds each.… Expand
15 of 16 users found this helpful151
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9
timoneNov 9, 2018
For the fact that I'm getting really giddy about laughing at somebody's reactions I decided that I'm really am giddy about laughing my @$$ off reviewing this Looney Tuney action flick Face/Off. That's right. It's about as over-the-top as itFor the fact that I'm getting really giddy about laughing at somebody's reactions I decided that I'm really am giddy about laughing my @$$ off reviewing this Looney Tuney action flick Face/Off. That's right. It's about as over-the-top as it gets and many people in the world don't care because they enjoyed it and loved it for it's perfect cheesy action and intense violence. To me, I love everything about it and John Travolta and Nicolas Cage done really well in this. The premise I know what y'all thinking. It's ridiculous but who f£$king cares? They literally playing each other by putting their faces on each other after Sean Archer captures Castor Troy. John Travolta and Nicolas Cage played hilarious in their roles and I come to the point of laughing my f£$king @$$ at Castor Troy played by Nicolas Cage and yes, John Travolta. It's like I've been teasing my stepdad about Piggy Bear which Crunch Bandicoot says and saying what Sam the Eagle from The Muppets saying "The mussal's of this messal has refuse to touch my feet. Would you please rub my tudsies? Thank you." just to tease my friends. The hospital scene where Sean's and Castor's faces get switched over doesn't bother me at all cause I got over it much like the broken bones and when people don't know that Sean and Castor had switched identities they'll be confused. That's how over-the-top this movie really is. The best thing about this movie is the speedboat chase at the end and when people are on the edge of their seats through the scene they are gripped for how amazing this scene really is. Now that is just awesome despite the stuntmen showing. Face/Off is a fantastically made action film for it's beautiful shots with intense violence and intense action and hilarious moments with John Travolta and Nicolas Cage. Now I know that you think it's a science fiction action flick but I don't see why it's sci-fi. Well, it just isn't science fiction until I've seen these two changing their faces. This is the kind of film that you don't have to think, you just enjoy. It's a film that will make you thrilled and laugh and don't care how ridiculous the story is and just enjoy it for it's entirety. Give it a watch and see if you wanna take it's face... off.… Expand
21 of 25 users found this helpful214
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9
jonslowJan 8, 2019
คลาสสิค คลาสสิค คลาสสิค คลาสสิค คลาสสิค คลาสสิค คลาสสิค คลาสสิค คลาสสิค คลาสสิค
25 of 39 users found this helpful2514
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10
CarnivalApr 19, 2021
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13 of 13 users found this helpful130
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10
ProlificApr 25, 2021
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13 of 13 users found this helpful130
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10
oustApr 26, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. In the narrative behind Castor Troy being Adam's father: Castor Troy had a threesome with Sasha and Deitrich and Adam had been conceived.… Expand
13 of 13 users found this helpful130
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10
DefameApr 30, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Entire Film: 56 Demises Character's Tally Castor Troy (Cage): 16 Sean Archer (Travolta): 16 Dietrich (Nick Cassavetes): 6 Sasha (Gina Gershon): 2 Dubov (Chris Bauer): 6

Included among the American Film Institute's 2001 list of 400 movies nominated for the top 100 Most Heart-Pounding American Movies.… Expand
13 of 13 users found this helpful130
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10
Aversion68May 3, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. John Woo let Nick Cassavetes write a lot of his own lines for the movie. ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,...............… Expand
13 of 13 users found this helpful130
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9
Lanyard980Aug 7, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Sean Archer, un agent FBI foarte dur, dur, încă se întristează pentru fiul său mort, Michael. Archer crede că ucigașul fiului său este inamicul său jurat și un criminal foarte puternic, Castor Troy. Într-o zi, Archer l-a încolțit în cele din urmă pe Castor, cu toate acestea, lupta lor l-a bătut pe Troy rece. În timp ce Archer respiră ușor în urma capturării inamicului său, află că Troia a plantat o bombă care va distruge întregul oraș Los Angeles și toți locuitorii săi. Din păcate, singura altă persoană care îi cunoaște locația este fratele lui Castor, Pollux, și acesta refuză să vorbească. Soluția, un medic specializat în operații, care poate tăia fețele oamenilor și poate așeza fața unei persoane pe o altă persoană. Archer este supus uneia dintre aceste operații pentru a vorbi cu Pollux. Cu toate acestea, Castor Troy își recapătă cumva conștiința și acum își dorește să se răzbune pe Archer pentru că i-a luat fața. Troy nu numai că distruge misiunea lui Archer, ci și viața sa personală. Archer trebuie să-l oprească din nou pe Troia. Cu această ocazie, este personal.… Expand
13 of 13 users found this helpful130
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10
BaskApr 23, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The two main characters' blood types reflect their antagonistic nature. Sean Archer's blood type is O negative, the universal donor, reflecting Archer's role as a police officer dedicated to serving the community. Castor Troy's is AB positive, the universal recipient, someone who takes from society without giving anything back.… Expand
12 of 12 users found this helpful120
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10
DiameterApr 28, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Revealing Mistakes (at around 2h 10 mins) When Castor is being loaded onto the after being harpooned, his hand drops to his side and then moves back up even though he is supposed to be dead.… Expand
12 of 12 users found this helpful120
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10
dabble26May 12, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Incomparably brilliant concept ! Cage and Travolta star in a fast-paced action/thriller in which the characters, Sean Archer and Castor Troy, switch faces in order to bring the other one down. The movie begins with a suspense-filled that is indeed a tear-drop scene that will keep any audience watching the movie until the very end. The story is amazing and beats any action movie to date OTHER THAN The Rock, which also stars Cage and former Bond star Sean Connery. That and this film are my two favorite movies ever made and are true masterpieces. Action seems to never stop, especially during the last scenes that takes a shootout at a chapel out to sea in a boat chase (which is one of the best action scenes in any action movie in my opinion), and finally ensing in a mano a mano Face-off between Archer and Troy on the beach that is truly a sight to behold. If any action movie will catch your interest, this is it.

Forget Bond, the action movie genre has a new king.… Expand
12 of 12 users found this helpful120
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10
Dysphoric22May 13, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. SYNOPSIS

FBI agent Sean Archer (Travolta) knows how to capture elusive terrorist Castor Troy (Cage). He'll become him. Archer undergoes a futuristic surgery and has Troy's face mapped onto his, then infiltrates the terrorist's world to discover his deadly secrets. But as much as Archer looks and acts like Troy, he doesn't really know him. He never figures Troy will retaliate and force the doctors to transform him into Archer. Now nobody knows they have switched identities except for the 2 men. Now the agent faces a shattering nightmare: his adversary is living with his family. (Paramount)… Expand
12 of 12 users found this helpful120
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10
Carouse97May 13, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Sean Archer: [over a car phone in a stolen car] Eve, listen to me. The man you think is your husband isn't.

Dr. Eve Archer: Who is this?

Sean Archer: Listen. Take Jamie. Go to your mother's. Don't tell him where you're going, just go!

Dr. Eve Archer: Whoever you are, don't call again!… Expand
12 of 12 users found this helpful120
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10
Chignon24May 10, 2021
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11 of 11 users found this helpful110
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9
Capricorn87Sep 8, 2021
*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:*:
☆°•☆°•☆°•☆°•☆°•☆°•☆°•☆°•☆°•☆°•☆°•☆
10 of 10 users found this helpful100
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9
Missile44Sep 10, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Šons Ārčers, ļoti nelīdzens FIB aģents, joprojām sēro par savu mirušo dēlu Maiklu. Trojs ir bēdīgi slavens, kaitīgs terorists, kurš kādu dienu mēģina nogalināt Arčeru karuselī, kamēr viņš kopā ar dēlu brauc pa karuseli vienā no nesteidzīgajām darba dienām. Trojs nošauj Arčeru ar šauteni, bet lode iet caur viņu un ieiet viņa dēlā. Arčers no slepkavības mēģinājuma ir atstājis rētu, kas viņam tikai atgādina zaudēto dēlu un Trojas ļaunumu. Arčers vēlas atriebt sava dēla piemiņu, sagūstot savu slepkavu, savu zvērināto ienaidnieku, netveramo izdomātāju Kastoru Troju. Kādu dienu Arčers beidzot ir nostūrējis Kastoru stūrī, tomēr viņu strīds ir novedis Troju pie komas. Kad Arčers beidzot atvieglo elpu pār ienaidnieka sagūstīšanu, viņš atklāj sižetu, ka Trojs ir uzlicis bumbu, kas iznīcinās lielu daļu Losandželosas. Diemžēl vienīgā persona, kas zina tās slēptuvi, ir Kastora brālis Pollukss, un viņš atsakās pupas izliet. Risinājums ir īpašu operāciju ārsts, kas pēc personas sejas noņemšanas var uzpotēt cilvēka seju kādam citam. Arčeram tiek veikta šī sejas transplantācijas operācija, lai pievilinātu Polluksu atklāt bumbas atrašanās vietu. Tomēr Kastors kaut kā atgūst samaņu un gaida Arčeru par sejas noņemšanu. Troja ne tikai grauj Arčera misiju, bet arī viņa personīgo dzīvi, viņš pārceļas uz Arčera mājām un uzņemas savu identitāti Arčera aizsegā. Arčeram vienreiz un uz visiem laikiem jāatsakās no Kastora.… Expand
9 of 9 users found this helpful90
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9
SextetSep 16, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Action Incarnate

While many films live on for their atmosphere and morals, this will be remembered for its pure, unbridled action. Director John Woo's mastery of cinematic action is exemplified in this two hour thrill ride as John Travolta and Nicholas Cage clash in a mano a mano battle to the death. Dealing with themes of obsession and the devastating effects of vengeance, Face/Off is a masterclass in high octane film-making which manages never to stray into the absurd or the excessive. The sheer level of acting talent holds the film above others in its genre, as Travolta plays Cage playing Travolta and vice versa, tangled in a brutal battle of wits game of cat and mouse which culminates in an adrenaline fueled finale like no other.… Expand
9 of 9 users found this helpful90
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9
DugongOct 18, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Nothing but praise...

There are few films which are both entertaining and inspiring. There are fewer films which are transcendant enough that you have to go online and write a glowing review. Face/Off's plot may initially discourage a few people from watching it- if we're honest, it's completely implausible and will remain that way for eons. However, when you watch it you'll be astoundingly pleased. John Woo pulls off some fabulous directing feats. The gun fight in an aircraft hanger is filmed in slo-motion and with exaggerated sounds. It is tricky to expound, but brilliant to observe. Ditto for the shootout in the church, the shootout outside the church, the loft shootout, the prison escape, the boat chase & the beach tussle. Sure this film is filled with guns, big bangs and loads of high speed action, but its so much more than that. It's a veritable eye and ear feast. Compound that with in my opinion the greatest soundtrack ever, you have a film that you'll want to watch regularly and enjoy as much as the first day you saw it.… Expand
9 of 9 users found this helpful90
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9
Stylus84Oct 24, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The first American Woo film not to insult the genius of the man!

John Woo's best film in Hollywood and probably will sadly never be surpassed. He has been wasted post Hong Kong but this was a genuinely class action movie. The plot itself is about as logical as flushing the toilet and then crapping, but the convoluted story takes a back seat to interesting character development. Its Sci-Fi elements don't take too much focus which is good, and unlike Woo to do so anyway. The film has John Travolta and Nic Cage both playing opposite characters, Travolta playing a more refined and less showy role than usual and Cage playing his usual extravagant role, then the two roles are traded as their characters get their faces swapped. There is an interesting dynamic as both actors play both to their usual types (very theatrical) and against type (more refined). Not to mention the psychological elements of the character with both having to wear the face of their Nemesis who they despise. It is particularly interesting from Archers point of view because he begins to hate himself and almost can't take what is happening to him. Of course as you expect with Woo the action is first rate, albeit with mucho doubling for Cage and Travolta. What is amazing now though is that face transplants are possible, so who knows perhaps one day soon we could take on someones whole identity.… Expand
9 of 9 users found this helpful90
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8
Wok367Nov 9, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Best action film ever !!!!!!!!!!

Out of all the action films I have ever seen this has to be the best of the lot. The action scenes are amazing especially playing 'chicken' with the plane and the speed boat scene towards the end. The actors performances are really good, but I feel that Nicolas Cage is better as Archer than as Castor Troy. Overall, excellent film, good action scenes and good lead actors!! "See anything you like?" I sure do!!!… Expand
9 of 9 users found this helpful90
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9
Celestial91Sep 15, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Best non-stop action from the Master himself

John Woo has proved it again. No-one does it better than him. It's a symphony of action, drama, suspense, thrills and superb acting from Cage and Travolta. All is blended wonderfully with a music-score that makes the final outcome simply perfect ! I worship you, Master Woo !… Expand
8 of 8 users found this helpful80
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8
Accrue4Nov 3, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The third attempt was the charm for director John Woo in Hollywood, as his 1997 blockbuster Face/Off reached the passionate intensity of his best Hong Kong works.

Face/Off is a fascinating film in so many ways. A dedicated FBI man (John Travolta) has his face replaced by a terrorist's (Nicolas Cage) in a desperate bid to find a deadly bomb ticking away somewhere in Los Angeles.

Travolta and Cage play ruthless rivals and then each other as this ambitious thriller goes for broke. It just about comes off amid some spectacular John Woo-trademark violence, though it can also be viewed as ludicrously, riotously funny. It was the first Hollywood film in which Woo was given complete creative control and was acclaimed by both audiences and critics as a result. Eventually grossing $245 million worldwide, Face/Off was a financial success.… Expand
7 of 7 users found this helpful70
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8
Seclude12Nov 10, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. John Woo....Absolute Master

All I have to say is "WOW"! Who doesn't like this movie? My grandma loved it, along with everyone else I know. John Woo is an absolute master at what he can do on the screen. Cage and Travolta also give riveting, spot on performances....by having to switch personalities. This action movie actualy has an incomparable story!!! Not only highly entertaining, but a visal feast for the eyes, brain, and for my nana and I.....our tear ducts. Deserves a lot more credit then it has gotten.… Expand
7 of 7 users found this helpful70
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8
Lacrymose222Nov 12, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Sean Archer, vrlo grubi agent FBI-a, još uvijek tuguje za svojim preminulim sinom Michaelom. Troy, zloglasni, štetni terorist pokušava jednog dana ubiti Archera na vrtuljku dok se on vozi na vrtuljku sa svojim sinom jednog od svojih ležernih dana s posla. Troy puca u Archera iz puške, ali metak prolazi kroz njega i ulazi u njegovog sina. Archeru je ostao ožiljak od pokušaja atentata koji ga samo podsjeća na izgubljenog sina i zloću Troje. Archer želi osvetiti uspomenu na svog sina hvatanjem svog ubojice, svog zakletog neprijatelja, neuhvatljivog mozga Castora Troya. Jednog dana, Archer je konačno stjerao Castora u kut, međutim njihova svađa dovela je Troya u komu. Dok Archer konačno odahne zbog zarobljavanja svog neprijatelja, on razotkriva zavjeru da je Troy postavio bombu koja će desetkovati velik dio Los Angelesa. Nažalost, jedina druga osoba koja je točno otkrila skrovište bombe je Castorov brat Pollux, a on odbija proliti grah. Rješenje je liječnik za specijalne operacije koji može pricijepiti nečije lice na nekog drugog nakon uklanjanja lica te osobe. Archer se podvrgava ovoj operaciji presađivanja lica kako bi nasamario Polluxa da otkrije lokaciju bombe. Međutim, Castor se nekako osvijesti i progoni Archera jer mu je uklonjen lice. Ne samo da Troy uništava Archerovu misiju i njegov osobni život, on se useljava u Archerov dom i preuzima njegov identitet pod krinkom Archera. Archer se mora odreći Castora jednom zauvijek.… Expand
6 of 6 users found this helpful60
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10
Meld67Dec 6, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Face/off is a brilliant action thriller with stellar acting from Travolta & Cage. The premise is brilliant
and it is one of the perfect mega flicks from the late 90's. As another reviewer said "this is my favorite movie." I support his comment and this movie is also
one of my favorites due to the action, acting, twists & a one of a kind storyline that places the movie on its high pedestal. As for the users jamesmitchell28, OriginalDanger, Steven1981, gracjanski & Matt C, all 5 of you gave inane, degrading, nonsensical reviews of the film. This movie is a 10, no more or no less. Any user who rates Face/Off lower than a 9 did not comprehend the messages of the movie. This movie is perfect & brilliant on all levels that are mesurable. Any user who sees any other reviews by these users, don't pay attention to them. These users have no idea how to review a movie and they should be banned from Metacritic. Kudos is given where kudos is due. Also they should listen to the old adage, if you have nothing good to say, don't say anything at all. All of these users are clearly low IQ individuals who can't tell the difference between a brilliant movie & an idiotic movie. Face/Off is a must see action masterpiece that is a timeless classic that deserves to be praised for its ingenuity for many years to come.… Expand
4 of 4 users found this helpful40
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10
Proboscis396Mar 3, 2022
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Sean Archer is a top FBI agent who has a wife, son and daughter. One day while on a carousel on one of his off days from the bureau, a nefarious career criminal named Castor Troy attempts to assassinate him while he is with his son. The bullet takes the life of his son Michael. Fast forward six years and Troy is still at large. Castor has a felony list a mile long. Sean prevents Castor & his brother from leaving the tarmac at LAX airport. After Castor crashes the jet into a plane hangar, Sean and Castor have an intense shootout in the hangar. Castor ends up getting thrown into a mesh fence that renders him in a coma. Sean is unaware that Castor has hidden a bomb somewhere in LA , set to detonate in a few days. What happens is that Sean has to pose as Castor to trick his brother Pollux into revealing the whereabouts of the bomb. The rest of the film features Sean escaping from the prison, a nifty loft shootout in Dietrich's loft, a church shootout, more subsequent shooting and a phenomenal speedboat chase with nonstop action. Throughout the movie there are many twists & clever dialog as well. The acting is spot on and the final action scene is Sean versus Castor in hand to hand combat which totally fit the ending. Face/Off is a must see action extravaganza & is in the top 20 of my favorite movies.… Expand
3 of 3 users found this helpful30
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10
NancyB.May 6, 2006
I'm a middle aged woman and this is my favorite movie of all time. The acting by Travolta and Cage is brilliant, as they assume each other's mannerisms and intonation. John Woo's directing is lively, yet thoughtful and poetic. I'm a middle aged woman and this is my favorite movie of all time. The acting by Travolta and Cage is brilliant, as they assume each other's mannerisms and intonation. John Woo's directing is lively, yet thoughtful and poetic. I have been left with several enduring images, such as Cage alighting from the car with his overcoat blowing in the breeze as he saunters to the beat of the music. That single image makes it clear that he is a bad guy who feels on top of his universe. The action scene of shooting at the penthouse is bloody and violent, yet artful. I think this is Travolta's best work ever. Joan Allen as his wife was a great casting choice. His daughter's transformation throughout the film was fun to watch. I think the reason I loved this film is that it is an interesting story, well-acted, superbly directed and it shows the emotional side of the characters as well.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful
9
Momentum78Mar 10, 2022
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2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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9
ClepsydraApr 16, 2022
☆¡☆¡☆¡☆¡☆¡☆¡◇⊙◇⊙◇⊙◇⊙◇⊙◇⊙◇⊙◇⊙◇⊙◇⊙◇⊙◇⊙《$&$&$&$&$&$&$&$&$&$&$*$*$*$■|~▪●■hifyughfgfghhfgftdyfugughg♤♡♤☆☆dmodkdodkpeksldmodkdomelweem
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
Implement89Apr 23, 2022
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Razburljiv in nato nekaj, Face/Off združuje režiserjevo supercharpodobe baletne brutalnosti in duhovne katarze z nenavadnim humorjem, ki omogoča, da se John Travolta in Nicolas Cage pustita raztrgati.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
PatFlores2003Apr 28, 2022
The movie is very interesting... Perfect performances by Nicolas Cage and John Travolta, a perfect screenplay... although it is an underrated movie, for me it's a good movie to enjoy... this is one of my favorite Action movies as well as myThe movie is very interesting... Perfect performances by Nicolas Cage and John Travolta, a perfect screenplay... although it is an underrated movie, for me it's a good movie to enjoy... this is one of my favorite Action movies as well as my actor (Nicolas Cage) this being his best film also one of my favorites from the 90s.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
AbolishAug 17, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. 매우 강인한 FBI 요원인 Sean Archer는 여전히 그의 죽은 아들 Michael을 애도하고 있습니다. 트로이는 한가한 퇴근 시간에 아들과 함께 회전 목마를 타고 있는 아처를 회전 목마에서 죽이려는 악명 높고 위험한 테러리스트를 시도합니다. 트로이는 소총으로 아처를 쏘지만 총알은 아처를 관통하여 그의 아들을 관통합니다. Archer는 그의 잃어버린 아들과 Troy의 사악함만을 상기시키는 암살 시도의 흉터를 남깁니다. Archer는 그의 살인자, 그의 맹렬한 적, 교묘한 주모자 Castor Troy를 붙잡아 아들의 기억에 대한 복수를 원합니다. 어느 날, 아처는 마침내 캐스터를 궁지에 몰아넣었지만, 그들의 말다툼으로 인해 트로이는 혼수상태에 빠진다. 아처는 마침내 적의 포획에 대해 안도의 한숨을 쉬면서 트로이가 로스앤젤레스의 상당 부분을 파괴할 폭탄을 설치했다는 음모를 풉니다. 불행히도 그 위치를 알고 있는 유일한 다른 사람은 Castor의 형제 Pollux이며 그는 콩을 흘리기를 거부합니다. 솔루션은 그 사람의 얼굴을 제거한 후 그 사람의 얼굴을 다른 사람에게 이식할 수 있는 특수 수술 의사입니다. Archer는 Pollux를 속여 폭탄의 위치를 ​​밝힐 수 있도록이 안면 이식 수술을받습니다. 그러나 캐스터는 어떻게든 의식을 되찾고 얼굴을 제거한 아처를 쫓는다. 트로이는 아처의 임무는 물론 사생활까지 망쳐놓고 아처의 집으로 이사를 가 아처라는 신분으로 신분을 위장한다. 아처는 트로이를 완전히 막아야 합니다.… Expand
10 of 11 users found this helpful101
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10
DeanomiteFeb 2, 2020
Decided to revisit this after Cinemassacre did a Cage match, and it definitely is very Cagey, I love when he does an impression of Travolta doing an impression of him. The worst is Travolta doing the creepy face rub, the rest of the movie isDecided to revisit this after Cinemassacre did a Cage match, and it definitely is very Cagey, I love when he does an impression of Travolta doing an impression of him. The worst is Travolta doing the creepy face rub, the rest of the movie is pinnacle Woo/Cage. Cage dressed as a priest molesting an alter girl in opening scene is worth the movie.… Expand
5 of 26 users found this helpful521
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6
TyranianApr 8, 2019
A crazy action film with over the top acting, writing and visuals. Quite fun.
3 of 16 users found this helpful313
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8
EpicLadySpongeFeb 1, 2016
I like to call Face/Off a well-done movie that's worth giving a million copies to and an enjoy-it-at-home feeling that actually works to call it a movie.
6 of 39 users found this helpful633
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6
JacobMar 27, 2014
The film has an interesting concept and some fun action but it is just alright. Its not just Nicholas Cage's acting that knocks it down but the length. This movie drags on way too long for my taste. Someone said it best the mirror sceneThe film has an interesting concept and some fun action but it is just alright. Its not just Nicholas Cage's acting that knocks it down but the length. This movie drags on way too long for my taste. Someone said it best the mirror scene should have been the climax.… Expand
4 of 39 users found this helpful435
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8
AndremaxDec 1, 2018
It's a quite ambitious for a movie that hopes nothing more than action. Face/Off is dramatic, visceral, funny, philosophic in certain meters, but a bit exceded about emotional which really hopes in a movie in genere. Beyond all, it's aIt's a quite ambitious for a movie that hopes nothing more than action. Face/Off is dramatic, visceral, funny, philosophic in certain meters, but a bit exceded about emotional which really hopes in a movie in genere. Beyond all, it's a perfect oportunity to shows Cage and Travolta's versatility… Expand
3 of 31 users found this helpful328
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8
Meth-dudeMay 13, 2017
It's 90's action at it's best. It was silly, unbelievable, it had some plot holes and the acting was over the top, it was cheesy and predictable and it had unnecessary explosions, but it was very entertaining. Any action movie fan shouldIt's 90's action at it's best. It was silly, unbelievable, it had some plot holes and the acting was over the top, it was cheesy and predictable and it had unnecessary explosions, but it was very entertaining. Any action movie fan should watch this movie.… Expand
2 of 24 users found this helpful222
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5
cmykJan 29, 2014
I generally dislike Cage's acting in just about anything so a positive review on any flick he's in is saying a lot. Face/Off has an interesting storyline, albeit a bit far-fetched. It's an alright way to pass your time if you've got an hourI generally dislike Cage's acting in just about anything so a positive review on any flick he's in is saying a lot. Face/Off has an interesting storyline, albeit a bit far-fetched. It's an alright way to pass your time if you've got an hour or two to spare.… Expand
1 of 39 users found this helpful138
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7
MovieGuysSep 28, 2013
A pretty good action movie, and Woo is good at them. The plot is a little unrealistic, and I think the popular saying "YOU DON'T SAY" is a very relevant answer to that question, as Nick Cage is in this movie! I liked it for the most part, andA pretty good action movie, and Woo is good at them. The plot is a little unrealistic, and I think the popular saying "YOU DON'T SAY" is a very relevant answer to that question, as Nick Cage is in this movie! I liked it for the most part, and it's worth a watch in the long run.… Expand
2 of 81 users found this helpful279
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0
MattC.Oct 6, 2005
How many poor souls this movie has hoodwinked! Epic hams Cage and Travolta maul the scenery; they do not act as much as make spectacles of themselves. The plot is riveted with as many bulletholes as there are at the end of a cliched Woo How many poor souls this movie has hoodwinked! Epic hams Cage and Travolta maul the scenery; they do not act as much as make spectacles of themselves. The plot is riveted with as many bulletholes as there are at the end of a cliched Woo action scene. Once second Cage is on an oil rig in the ocean-- the next he is on dry land. Enough with the doves, Woo; it's tired.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful
6
amheretojudgeJan 16, 2018
so why don't we trade back..

Face/Off

The concept will take its time to let it sink in but before you do, you find yourself already enjoying these characters of John Woo which offers kick back to the movie and bursts it out of the door.
0 of 14 users found this helpful014
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7
JeBjBoJan 2, 2022
This film is absolutely bonkers but very awesome. Just the right amount of Nic Cage insanity. Hallelujah!
0 of 4 users found this helpful04
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3
Tyrant719Jun 15, 2021
After watching this movie and reading the reviews, I finally realize why ignorant **** like Transformers and The Fast & Furious franchise make money. How can you people actually try to defend this movie as some sort of craft and not justAfter watching this movie and reading the reviews, I finally realize why ignorant **** like Transformers and The Fast & Furious franchise make money. How can you people actually try to defend this movie as some sort of craft and not just action stereotypes thrown together? The acting is not intentionally bad. If these actors were doing these performances as some sort of ironic disrespect of the material, I might respect it. In retrospect, however, both Travolta’s and Cage’s careers have shown that this is the result of them ACTUALLY TRYING. That’s embarrassing to say the least. Typical of two privileged Hollywood types who have found a way to entrench themselves in the system. The ONLY entertainment value this movie has is watching it to make fun of it. … Expand
0 of 12 users found this helpful012
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3
Steven1981Mar 18, 2020
Face/Off... John Travolta and Nicolas Cage star in this action blockbuster, Travolta being the good guy thinks it's a good idea to swap faces with villain Castor Troy (Cage) in order to stop him. The plan worked but this film was executedFace/Off... John Travolta and Nicolas Cage star in this action blockbuster, Travolta being the good guy thinks it's a good idea to swap faces with villain Castor Troy (Cage) in order to stop him. The plan worked but this film was executed poorly, the action was good but silly in some parts, the quotes are forgettable and most of the characters are annoying as hell. Nicolas Cages performance is crap, well over the top and dumb. John Travolta's acting was superb but he couldn't stop this film being crap. Directed by John Woo (Broken Arrow, Hard Target) this film sinks like the Titanic in so many ways.… Expand
0 of 16 users found this helpful016
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3
OriginalDangerSep 7, 2020
Face/Off is a 1997 action, crime thriller that stars Nicolas Cage and John Travolta... Travolta stars as FBI agent Sean Archer and is in pursuit of Castor Troy (Nicolas Cage) and wants to capture him, kill him or whatever but in order toFace/Off is a 1997 action, crime thriller that stars Nicolas Cage and John Travolta... Travolta stars as FBI agent Sean Archer and is in pursuit of Castor Troy (Nicolas Cage) and wants to capture him, kill him or whatever but in order to capture him he must become him but laser surgery procedure to remove his face and have Troy's face and vice versa. Face/Off is full of explosions, chases, shootouts, bad language, blood and violence in traditional John Woo fashion... Director John Woo puts loads of action scenes into Face/Off but it's way over the top and silly. It's also depressing and Nicolas Cage is horrible in the movie and John Travolta is better but it's still a horrible movie even with the over the top violence and Gina Gershon in the movie looks out of place to me. She was just ridiculous and Dominique Swain was excellent in the film but all in all completely stupid film and very depressing and way over acted and over the top.… Expand
0 of 13 users found this helpful013
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3
jamesmitchell28May 3, 2021
It starts off well but as soon as their faces swap, it sinks real low. John Woo's action sequences were not enough to salvage this violent, overwrought mess. It gets worse when one who's in a different face, meets his wife in one lousyIt starts off well but as soon as their faces swap, it sinks real low. John Woo's action sequences were not enough to salvage this violent, overwrought mess. It gets worse when one who's in a different face, meets his wife in one lousy sequence. This movie just sucks!… Expand
0 of 12 users found this helpful012
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9
[Anonymous]Sep 25, 2005
Damn near perfect action movie. In the days of Matrix bullettime, this one holds its own ground. When the action isn't rolling, there's something else filling the screen, particularly the way Troy and Archer fill the gaps in each Damn near perfect action movie. In the days of Matrix bullettime, this one holds its own ground. When the action isn't rolling, there's something else filling the screen, particularly the way Troy and Archer fill the gaps in each other's lives. Cage and travolta are perfect in each other's roles, or themselves, or...just watch it! Nearly puts Mi2 to shame.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JodyM.Dec 5, 2006
This is one of my favourite movies of all time, sure it may be cliched, but I still love it. The action was intense and the story was solid. And Matt, if your going to give it a zero, please justify. You have to some extent, but come on! A zero!?!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
PatC.May 4, 2006
The most startling thing is Travolta and Cage playing each other as they swap roles in the movie. I don't remember much else about the movie, just that those boys can act!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
GrayOct 7, 2005
Easily the best of Woo's American works. Emotionally powerful as well as being chock full of great action scenes.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
gracjanskiFeb 7, 2021
John Woo..that means countless illogical scenes, a lot of slow motion, that makes the movie too long and style style style. Of course the story is stupid. The only good thing in this movies are John Travolta and Nicolas Cage.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
Sosmooth1982Dec 20, 2022
Never seen a concept for movie this way. They literally trade faces. Good versus evil and not only do they trade faces but there characters and personalities have to change as well. 2 of the best that could ever do it. John turns intoNever seen a concept for movie this way. They literally trade faces. Good versus evil and not only do they trade faces but there characters and personalities have to change as well. 2 of the best that could ever do it. John turns into Nicholas and Nicholas turns into John. I would say Nicholas Cage played it better then John Travolta did.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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10
AcousticalMay 16, 2022
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A nefarious terrorist who has never been captured, has a felony list a mile long and is a total lunatic switches identities with his nemesis. His nemesis is a rugged, FBI agent who lost his son in a botched assassination attempt at the hands of Castor. Sean has to hide in the guise of Castor to ascertain the whereabouts of a bomb that is going to wipe out a portion of Los Angeles. Castor awakens from his coma, then steals Sean's identity to the dismay of Sean. Face/Off has an ingenious plot plus adrenaline pumping action scenes that will slake any action fans thirst !!!!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
grambuolysNov 17, 2022
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. One of the best action drama movies I have ever seen. At first glance you'd expect the face surgery to leave obvious marks which would lead to more suspicions. But what works for this movie is how two main characters despite looking alike each other, can't adopt each others' personalities. They only change their appearance, but that's all. We see how certain moments trigger different reactions, for instance - when Troy visits Archer's son grave. But he has to keep the presence of "Archer" so his true identity won't be exposed. Also I loved how differently Archer acted in contrast of Troy on the shootout saving the little kid as if it was his own child, what I can guarantee Troy would never do. In some moments he spared lives of police forces' crew members knowing they were Archer's colleagues, one of them was recognized after taking mask off. As mentioned above, I would've liked main characters to remain their scars. Also their body anatomical proportions are visibly different, as Archer possess of rounder face and bulkier torso, while Troy has sharper chin and thinner body. Several plot armors can be noticed. Anyways, I'm not a fan of nitpicking in this situation, because Nicolas Cage and John Travolta did great performances. We also had many honorable hilarious moments, especially the Cage's psycho acting! What I admired the most is the concept itself. There were trivial information around the internet that some people from Hollywood thought this is stupid idea. While I'd agree that this is crazy thing to do in this world, the concept seems to propose an idea of semi-SciFi world where some of surgical advancements come to be possible and thus making Archer to accept the idea of temporarily changing his face in sake of accomplishing his mission. This film manages to convince us how dangerous is to do such a thing and how everything can go wrong herewith pulling in the drama altogether.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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