"24," one of Fox's new television shows for the Fall season, will look at various events in an interesting fashion: through one 24-hour period. A fascinating concept--if done properly. Director Antoine Fuqua (The Replacement Killers, Bait) tries to work this cop drama in such a way, attempting to do it, however, as inconspicuously as possible.

Unfortunately, this slow-moving film doesn't really give us a chance to notice that the day hasn't changed because we're so wrapped up--be it for the better or worse--in the flawed relationship between a street smart veteran narcotics officer (Denzel Washington) and his new trainee (Ethan Hawke).

A devilishly perfect Washington, who uncharacteristically spews out four-letter words like Bernie Mac, completely overshadows Hawke during their event-filled day of chasing down a paraplegic Snoop Dogg, harassing Macy Gray and plotting with Dr. Dre. But even while we try to figure out Denzel's angle--Is he showing the new kid tough love or just a hard time?--we can't help but feel relieved when the monotony stops when the day finally ends and the credits start to roll. (C-)