Not quite untouchable, but an undeniable classic.
Released: 1987
Genre(s): Crime, Drama, Thriller
Crime movies - to be specific, mob-related movies - tend to capitalize on two major things to add onscreen punch: the acting and the whacking. Some are more balanced than others, doling out equal doses of moody, noir-esque grit, and wickedly brutal mob hits; it is this potent cocktail that makes "The Untouchables" such an enthralling blast to watch. The violence here isn't overdone, taking an approach that emphasizes style and atmosphere, instead of unsightly gore or gratuitous shock value; these scenes remain profound without delving into the realm of the gruesome. The vicious action sequences are done more to enhance the engaging story (loosely-based on Eliot Ness' autobiographical memoir the film derives its title from) than distract from it, which allows the viewer to focus on the superb, brooding, dramatic tension that builds between Ness and Al Capone's rival camps. While there are definitely moments where the plot drags its feet a bit - which is somewhat confusing, as the movie is wrought with historical inaccuracies (what does a little more embellishment hurt?) - the acting is consistently adequate enough to allow at least some of the momentum to continue through these scenes. Robert De Niro in particular personifies the sinister charisma of the infamous Chicago gangster in a portrayal dripping with both savagery and believable enthusiasm. Unfortunately, the grandest moments of this film are frequently plagued by a touch of unintentionally cornball grandiosity; most of this is due to a soundtrack that oftentimes seems more at home in a Mel Brooks movie than in a riveting crime-thriller. All nitpicking aside, there's plenty about this film that can effectively exhilarate, charm, and impress those seeking a crime-busting romp through the streets of the Windy City. If you're looking for a mob drama that's bearably dark, genuinely triumphant, and even quietly epic, "The Untouchables" is far from the worst choice available and shouldn't be passed up.
Rating (out of 5): 3.5
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