The Departed (2006)
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0407887/
Not as good as I expected.
Bang bang overload, secret informers recycling, infiltrated people all over the place, intel powered by cell phone messaging, and a highly conservative – but effective – cast, at least for the three main roles: DiCaprio as Costigan – the cop who loses his previous identity, in order to go dark in the Mafia –, Nicholson as Costello – the local mafioso supremo, but a FBI informer – and Damon, as Sullivan, the criminal infiltrated as a cop…
The first hour is very much Scorsese on rails. I am sorry, but I slept for a moment.
The movie’s second half feels solid and modern. I’ll remember…
(1) When Costigan chases Sullivan: a brilliant night scene, with smoky alleys, mirrors and shadows, conditioning the outcome of the pursuit, and the viewers’ immersion. It is hard to achieve a better blend of artistry and raw “hide and seek”.
(2) The sole sex scene manages to push “the right buttons”, in a very short time and showing nothing – an achievement considering all the available meat these days.
The script itself is not original nor exceptional. There is the crystal clear boss: Nicholson/Costello. There is the obvious hero (DiCaprio/Costigan); and his alter-ego, although you never really hate him (Damon/Sullivan). A classical triangle.
The final chapters are way too explosive. So much shooting…
My rating: 7/10
The Departed (2006)
[buy, via amazon.com]
The Departed (2006)
[buy, via amazon.co.uk]
Check the official trailer:
Wednesday 08 Aug 2007 | am | movies, movies reviewed, movies seen