Viewed in
2007
Premise
The story of an undercover cop infiltrating the mob and having trouble getting out.
Who should watch
Fans of Johnny Depp and Al Pacino.
Thoughts
Al Pacino and Johnny Depp together. Enough said. I was afraid I would get the typical 'Scarface' acting from Pacino, but he toned it down. This was a great, subtle performance as near-broken veteran mobster just struggling to stay in the game. Johnny Depp also toned down his Johnny Depp style as the cop who doesn't realize how deep of a hole he has dug. There was a strong supporting cast, including Michael Madsen and the late great Bruno Kirby. If you look closely, you could spot Paul Giamatti.
As with most undercover cop movies, you have backstabbing mobsters, some bloody violence, colorful dialogue and the suffering cop's wife. But while the characters do ascend the mob ladder, the heart of the story was about the struggle to stay alive and sane.
What I would change
Nothing.
