Crime
Crime stories intrigue, because they depict a facet of life that most of us (hopefully!) will never indulge in. While often violent and filled with deplorable activities, the best crime films also examine the code of loyalty and honour amongst criminals, as well as deception and betrayal. Looking at the selections below, one might think every second crime film stars either Al Pacino or Robert De Niro!
Goodfellas
Martin Scorcese's masterwork follows the life of Henry Hill, who has always wanted to be part of the Mob. Alternately violent, humorous and dizzying, with searing performances and perfect use of period songs. A classic.
Pulp Fiction
The film that broke a lot of rules, and inspired a bunch of imitators. By turns cool, violent, funny, and gory, Quentin Tarantino's second film mesmerised with its mix of shady characters, lengthy conversations, non-linear timeline, and sublime use of music. A must-see. Full review.
The Godfather
The granddaddy of all gangster films, based on a novel by Mario Puzo. The story of a Mafia family's post-WWII fall and rise is brilliantly filmed by Francis Ford Coppola. The themes of family and honour are prevalent throughout the film, outlining their importance even to criminals. Memorable performances by the whole cast. Followed by a sequel that's almost as good.
The Untouchables
Brian de Palma's big screen version of the TV show stars Kevin Costner as Elliot Ness, a law enforcer who is unwavering and "untouchable" in his pursuit of crime lord Al Capone. When conventional methods don't work, he enlists the help of a street wise policeman. Contains the classic railway steps sequence, a homage to a similar scene in Battleship Potemkin.
Heat
A landmark film, because it's the first time that acting legends De Niro and Pacino have actually been on screen together at the same time (they were both in Godfather II, but in different time periods). De Niro and his gang of professional thieves decide on one last heist before retiring; Pacino is the obsessed cop out to snare them. Watch for the LA downtown shootout!
Sea of Love
Pacino again, this time as a flawed cop investigating a series of brutal murders linked to sex and the song Sea of Love. Ellen Barkin is his main suspect and love interest. Steamy, atmospheric thriller that marked Pacino's return from the acting wilderness; John Goodman is also very good as his partner.
Influential film in terms of its darkness and grisly subject matter. A serial killer is using the seven deadly sins (greed, gluttony, sloth, etc.) as the basis for his murders. Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman team up to investigate. Unrelenting and gruesome, even though we see little violence or gore. It's the imagining of the crimes that give you a shudder.
Excellent crime drama examining the underbelly of L.A. life during the 50s. Three cops, as different in character as they are in their methods, come together to investigate a multiple murder involving a former policemen. Corruption, betrayal, and seediness dog their every step. Complex story, with strong period atmosphere and detail; great performances, especially by Kevin Spacey.
The Godfather, Part II
Excellent follow-up to the original Godfather. Examines the lives of Don Michael Corleone (Pacino) and, in a separate thread, his father Vito (De Niro) during his early years in America. More detached than the original, but ultimately more tragic. Superb music by Nina Rota and Carmine Coppola. Often considered the best sequel ever made.