Today You Die

Today You Die is an action-thriller film that was released in 2005, directed by Don E. FauntLeroy, and stars the reputable action star, Steven Seagal. Seagal plays the role of Harlan Banks, a professional thief with an extraordinary moral compass as he steals from those who use their wealth to exploit others. This action-packed film also features other important actors like Anthony 'Treach' Criss, who is popularly known for his work in music, playing the inspirational rapper in the group Naughty by Nature, Sarah Buxton, well-known for her roles in soap operas, and Mari Morrow, a TV actress known for her roles in comedies and dramas.

Set in Las Vegas, the story follows Seagal's character Harlan Banks as he is roped into what he believes to be his last heist, aiming for a life of peace and retirement afterward. This plan, however, isn't as foolproof as he had hoped, plunging him into a course of events laden with surprises, betrayal, and heavy action.

Coerced into participating in an armored car heist, Harlan is assured by Max, played by Kevin Tighe, that the operation would be smooth and easy. The job promises a clean break from his rough lifestyle but unsurprisingly, things don't go as planned and he finds himself in a precarious situation. The heist goes wrong and Harlan ends up in prison, where he encounters Ice Kool portrayed by Anthony 'Treach' Criss - an inmate with significant influence inside the prison system.

The elaborate plot intensifies after Harlan's imprisonment as he sets out to search for the truth, dig out the unfair play, and regain his freedom. His path to justice isn’t smooth, as he is met with a series of obstacles, each more challenging than the last. The film focuses on Harlan's quest for justice, showcasing his agility, cunning, and fighting skills.

Steven Seagal's portrayal of Harlan Banks continues to represent him in a tough, unshakeable role as fans have come to expect from his multitude of films. With his signature Aikido skills, former-CIA character, the movie showcases Seagal's physical prowess noted for in his past filmography.

Anthony 'Treach' Criss excels in his role as Ice Kool, bringing nuances to the character that make him both intimidating and interesting. The chemistry between Criss and Seagal breathes life into the storyline, adding layers to its dynamic.

Sarah Buxton delivers a noteworthy performance as Rachel McKenna. Her character provides an essential pivot in the plot. Mari Morrow, on the other hand, plays an interesting character that brings added depth to the storyline, introducing a few unexpected twists.

The film's credibility is further solidified by the thoughtful cinematography which does an excellent job at capturing the chaos and intensity of the action scenes. The backdrop of Las Vegas adds glitz and glamour to the movie, and its high-stakes atmosphere pairs well with the theme of the movie.

Released by Millennium Films and distributed by Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, Today You Die encapsulates elements of action, suspense, and crime that set the stage for a gripping narrative. The music score, handled aptly by Stephen Edwards, injects an added dose of tension into high-action sequences and emotional moments, enhancing the overall cinematic experience.

For fans of Steven Seagal and action films, Today You Die promises a riveting watch. Its fast-paced narrative, power-packed action sequences, and plot twists keep the audience on the edge of their seats. Although it continues the signature style of Seagal's previous roles, the film does introduce some new elements that set it apart from the typical action fare.

In all, Today You Die is a well-crafted action film that showcases a gripping plot, intense action sequences, and impressive performances by its lead actors. With a strong undertone of betrayal and justice, the film keeps viewers engaged right up to its climactic end.