This film perplexes me.

What is it really trying to say?

Is it trying to make a statement on health care or is it another one of those hostage crisis films?

Denzel Washington is great to watch, but overall, he's let down by the predictable screenplay and the cheesy dialogue (which Denzel elevates). James Woods was good, too. But again, the script lets everyone down.

The score is cheesy as fuck. It's like James Horner terribly experimented with jazz synthesizers.

Overall, John Q's intentions are confusing. It tries too hard to blend in a hostage crisis with a socially relevant statement (just like Dog Day Afternoon); but in the end, it's laughable with its attempts.

As of now, I have a mixed opinion on this film.

But trust me, this won't be the last time I'll be talking about the works of director Nick Cassavetes.