Prime Video just got one of Steven Soderbergh’s best movies — Traffic is a chilling look at the war on drugs
Steven Soderbergh’s Traffic, which has just made its way onto Prime Video, is one of those films that will stick with you long after the credits roll. This modern thriller, which explores the complex web of drug trafficking, remains as gripping today as it was when it first hit theaters in 2000. With its interwoven storylines and stellar cast, Traffic stands as a key entry in Soderbergh’s acclaimed career, providing an unsettling yet essential glimpse into the world of narcotics and law enforcement.
Traffic is making waves on Prime Video, capturing the attention of both new viewers and long-time fans of its stark, intense portrayal of the drug trade. If you’re in the mood for a sharp, suspense-filled movie that tackles social issues head-on, here’s everything you need to know about Traffic.
What is ‘Traffic’ about?
Traffic is a contemporary thriller that weaves together several interconnected stories revolving around the war on drugs. From a drug lord’s family caught in a moral dilemma, to law enforcement agents struggling with the devastating effects of their work, the film paints a broad and chilling picture of the drug trade.
The story begins with Catherine Zeta-Jones portraying Helena Ayala, the wife of a Mexican drug kingpin, who suddenly finds herself in over her head as she gets pulled deeper into her husband’s criminal empire. Meanwhile, Michael Douglas plays Robert Wakefield, a conservative judge appointed to the drug task force, who is faced with the grim realities of the very system he has sworn to fight against.
Soderbergh masterfully juggles multiple perspectives: from the inner workings of a drug cartel in Mexico, to the politics of the U.S. government, and the impact on individuals caught in the crossfire. Every plotline feels incredibly personal and intense, ensuring that Traffic doesn’t just feel like a typical thriller, it’s a window into the lives of those most affected by the illegal drug trade.
Stellar Cast Makes Traffic Unforgettable
One of the main reasons Traffic stands out is its impressive cast. The performances are top-notch across the board, and it’s clear that each actor brought their A-game.
- Catherine Zeta-Jones brings depth to her role as Helena Ayala, a woman torn between loyalty to her husband and the crushing realization of what he does for a living.
- Michael Douglas, as Judge Robert Wakefield, delivers a career-defining performance, portraying a man caught between his idealism and the corrupt reality of the drug war.
- Don Cheadle and Benicio del Toro also shine in their respective roles, adding layers of emotional complexity to the narrative. Cheadle plays an undercover cop trying to stay afloat in the dangerous world of drug enforcement, while Del Toro’s portrayal of a Mexican cop dealing with the brutalities of the war on drugs is both heartbreaking and thought-provoking.
- Tomas Milian, Miguel Ferrer, and Steven Bauer round out the cast, each delivering performances that add intrigue and tension to the multi-layered plot.
With so many talented actors in pivotal roles, it’s no surprise that Traffic is both critically acclaimed and immensely engaging to watch.
The Genius of Soderbergh’s Direction
Steven Soderbergh’s direction is what truly elevates Traffic to greatness. His use of visual style, such as the distinct color grading in different storylines, creates a unique atmosphere for each of the interwoven plots. The contrasting tones, a gritty, washed-out look for the Mexican storyline, and a cooler, more polished feel for the American plot, highlights the differences between the two worlds while keeping them connected through the universal issue of drugs.
Soderbergh also understands the importance of subtlety. He doesn’t offer easy answers, and the film is more concerned with showing the complex, often contradictory nature of the war on drugs. Whether it’s the moral ambiguity of the law enforcement officers or the blurred lines of loyalty within the drug trade, Traffic challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths.
Why Traffic is Worth Watching on Prime Video
While Prime Video has a wide array of content, Traffic rises to the top as a film that’s not only entertaining but also deeply important. It’s a hard-hitting film that takes a realistic, multi-faceted look at the consequences of the war on drugs, and it does so with a sharpness and clarity that’s still relevant today.
Though it is nearly a quarter-century old, Traffic remains one of the most relevant thrillers of the 21st century. The performances, direction, and writing all combine to create a film that feels timeless. If you haven’t seen it yet, or if it’s been a while since your last watch, Traffic is a must-see for anyone who appreciates sophisticated, socially conscious filmmaking.
On Rotten Tomatoes, Traffic holds a 93% approval rating from critics and a strong 86% audience score. These numbers speak volumes about how well the film has aged and how effective it is at engaging its audience.
Critics have praised the film’s complex structure and its refusal to simplify the issues it deals with. As one critic put it, “Traffic shows how intertwined everything is in the war on drugs, there are no easy answers, and every decision comes with consequences.”.
So, whether you’re revisiting this gem or watching it for the first time, Traffic offers a captivating and chilling dive into the complexities of the drug war. Now streaming on Prime Video, it’s the perfect choice for anyone interested in a deeply engaging and meaningful cinematic experience.