The Specialist

Yeah, the detonation scenes are interesting and dramatic, but the love story line is lifeless and Sly, narcissistically showing off his body at the gym, isn't at his best either. Luis Llosa can put together action scenes, but he is not so good that he can easily combine multiple genres. (19.06.2002)

Sylvester Stallone in a movie that is absolutely awesome when it comes to the action, but a terrible mess when it comes to the story. Sharon Stone was there to fill the boring places, they fucked, Stallone showed off his ripped body and bulging veins, occasionally something exploded, and I have to say that the explosions and Stallone’s body looked good. Okay, and Sharon as well, but that’s it. It’s kind of a foam between the more or less good movies Stallone was then making. It was watchable, but it’s definitely not a cult movie for me. That’s what others are for. (03.04.2013)

Average thriller with a naked Sharon and a muscular Sly. It's a pity that the director couldn't make more out of the promising premise. But who would expect miracles from a guy named Luis Llosa? (08.03.2008)

The Specialist is not to be fussed over too much, it is a film that sometimes appears very serious, but it should not be taken too seriously. Those who understand this will enjoy a great explosive entertainment. Sylvester Stallone is cool in a black suit, he doesn't talk much, but he is well compensated by the polar opposite James Woods, whose character as an ex-CIA expert is absolutely brilliant, and I laughed out loud at several of his expressions, lines, and remarks (must be seen in the original). Even Sharon Stone is captivating, and the role seems to have been written specifically for her. The explosions are great, the Florida setting is intoxicating, and the parties of the wealthy accompanied by slow jazz are captivating. It's almost tangible through the television screen, which is not often seen. (07.05.2005)