Inside Man is a 2006 American crime thriller film directed by Spike Lee and written by Russell Gewirtz.
The film centers on an elaborate bank heist that escalates into a hostage situation on Wall Street. Denzel Washington stars as Detective Keith Frazier, the NYPD's hostage negotiator, while Clive Owen plays Dalton Russell, the mastermind behind the heist. Jodie Foster portrays Madeleine White, a Manhattan fixer who becomes involved at the request of the bank's founder, Arthur Case (Christopher Plummer), to protect sensitive information from the robbers.
The plot unfolds as Dalton and his crew take control of a Manhattan bank, locking down hostages while negotiating with law enforcement. As the situation develops, it becomes apparent that there are deeper motives at play, particularly involving Case and his hidden agenda related to a safe deposit box that holds significant secrets. The film explores themes of morality, power dynamics, and the complexities of human relationships against the backdrop of a high-stakes negotiation.
Inside Man premiered in New York City on March 20, 2006, and was released in theaters across the United States on March 24, 2006. The film received generally positive reviews from critics and was commercially successful, grossing approximately $184.4 million worldwide against a budget of $45 million. It became the highest-grossing film in Spike Lee's career.
The film is noted for its sharp dialogue, engaging performances, and intricate plot twists. Critics praised its ability to blend suspense with social commentary, making it a standout entry in the heist genre. With a runtime of 129 minutes, Inside Man remains a significant work in both Spike Lee's filmography and contemporary American cinema.