Brian DePalma follows up the Tom Cruise blockbuster Mission Impossible with this muddled mess that only offers hints of brilliance.

Nicolas Cage, in an over the top performance, is a naughty New Jersey detective investigating a political assassination at a boxing match. A highlight of Snake Eyes is the first eighteen minutes, which is one continuous steadicam shot that will knock your socks off. In fact, much of this film is shot in a seamless style that is quite impressive.

The problem is that David Koepp's screenplay never seems to rise above the absurd. That leaves Snake Eyes depending on great direction and winning performances. Unfortunately, DePalma is only partially up to the task. The usually dependable Cage and Gary Sinise are not memorable at all.

If you want to see DePalma at his best, take an entire day off work, and rent Carrie, Blow Out, The Untouchables, Scarface, Carlito's Way and Mission Impossible. These are all exceptional works from a talented film maker. And take heart Mr. DePalma, Snake Eyes isn't your worst film. That dubious honor goes to Body Double.