Monday 20 July 2015

Miller's Crossing

UK Release Date: 18th January 1991

Tom Reagan, an advisor to a Prohibition-era crime boss, tries to keep the peace between warring mobs but gets caught in divided loyalties (www.imdb.com).

Director: Joel Coen, Ethan Coen (Raising Arizona, Blood Simple.)

Cast: Gabriel Byrne, Marcia Gay Harden, Albert Finney, John Tuturro, Jon Polito

Miller's Crossing is one, of the best gangster films to come around since The Godfather: Part II. The Coen Brother's gem is a slow, tepid burner, relying heavily on friendship and treachery rather than guns and death. Violence may be sparse, but it's authoritative and compelling when it lands. Tom (Gabriel Byrne) is the heart, the catalyst, the soul of the Coen's third major film. Paying as much attention as possible is key. The script is tenacious but flawless. Everyone involved is superb. Not one person stands out. Every shot is crisp and beautiful. Every scene meticulously thought out. The symbiosis behind Tom's hat and his connection towards it represents a power within the community. No hat, no power. Miller's Crossing has many layers. Repeat viewing is advised.

5/5

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