Swordfish (2001)

Swordfish is a thrilling ride into the world of cybercrime and espionage, showcasing the exploits of Stanley Jobson, an ex-convict and unparalleled computer hacker. Drawn back into a life he left behind, Stanley is recruited by the enigmatic Gabriel Shear and his associate, Ginger Knowles, to execute a heist that penetrates the U.S. government’s secret funds. The film navigates through layers of deception, loyalty, and morality, set against a backdrop of cutting-edge technology and action-packed sequences. With a plot that twists and turns, viewers are kept on the edge of their seats, questioning the true motives of its characters and the blurred lines between right and wrong in the digital age.

Length: 1h 39m
Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller
This Title is: Exciting and Intriguing

Cast

• John Travolta
• Hugh Jackman
• Halle Berry
• Don Cheadle

Parental Guidance

Maturity Rating: R

Contains scenes of violence, language, and sexuality.

Trivia

• The film’s title, “Swordfish,” refers to an old hacker term that originates from a password used in a famous scene from the Marx Brothers’ movie “Horse Feathers.”
• Real hacking techniques inspired the film’s depiction of cybercrime, though dramatized for cinematic effect.
• John Travolta’s character, Gabriel Shear, is named after a hacking term “shear line,” which is part of a lock mechanism.

Trailer

Our Review

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Swordfish balances intense action sequences with a complex plot, offering a compelling look into the world of cybercrime. While some critics find fault in its plausibility and the depth of character development, audiences are generally captivated by the film’s fast pace and the performances of its lead actors. Particularly praised are the movie’s thrilling action scenes and visual effects, which contribute significantly to the film’s entertainment value. However, the storyline, at times, feels convoluted, leaving some viewers wishing for a more coherent narrative thread.