5.0 out of 5 stars
The Devil and Hollywood - A Great Mix For Thrilling Entertainment, November 10, 2008
This review is from: L.A. Confidential - Special Edition / The Usual Suspects (Special Edition) (2 Pack) (DVD)
Special Edition (MGM)DVD of "The Usual Suspects".....
The "Usual Suspects" is one of those rare films that after the first view you just want to call everyone you know and tell them about it. And aren't we lucky to have DVD now and not even have to wait to rewind to watch it again! It's a sleek, stylish mystery/thriller, with a brillant screenplay that will have you hanging on every word of dialouge.The all star cast will have you hypnotized with their powerful performances as well.
Five of New York City's small time hoods, have found themselves involved in what might be the biggest and most dangerous heist of thier lives.They were brought together by,'Keyser Soze', a man many compare to the devil himself. He's a legendary underworld figure who is seen by none but feared by all.There's alot to gain(over 90 million dollars), but more to lose...possibly their lives.To say anymore would be giving too much away and ruining the fun of this film.
The story, told by Roger "Verbal" Kent(one of the suspects), is a chilling one. It is fraught with mystery and suspense that will have you on the edge of your seat throughout, and even adds a bit of comic relief occasionally.It is totally unpredicatable and absolutely intriguing.The Cast is big...It includes Kevin Spacey, who by the way took home an Oscar (Best Supporting) for his brillant work,Gabriel Byrne,Chazz Palminteri,Kevin Pollack, Steven Baldwin, Benicio Del Toro,and Pete Postlethwaite. The musical score(John Ottman) is haunting and the photography fabulous.It is modern film noir at it's finest and a must see for fans of the genre.
This 'Special Edition" DVD will delight fans of this film. It's a beautiful transfer. You have the choice of widescreen or full screen(choose at the beginning of the film),the surround sound is excellent and is in Dolby Dig 5.1. It may also be viewed in French(stereo) and has subtitles in English, French and Spanish. There are so many special features,including featurettes and deleted scenes(see buying info here for complete list), they have a whole side of their own.The film may also be viewed with commentary by Director Bryan Singer or John Ottman.
Is Keyser Soze the devil? Does he really even exsist?..if he does..who is he? You be the judge.
Watching it for the 1st time of the 50th, it will never get old!
Get the popcorn ready and enjoy.....
L.A. Confidential Special Edition Warner Bros DVD....
Famous landmarks of Los Angeles,notorious gangsters of the past, and a classic TV series combine with a great fictional tale of murder, police corruption and romance for one terrific modern film noir.
Set in the early 50's, when Los Angeles was still a town growing up,a drug lord, a bloody multiple murder dubbed "The Night Owl Murders",a rape case, and a millionaire running a prostitution racket are all under investigation. Three detectives, all with their own personal ambitions, with the help of a sleezy tabloid writer,and a beautiful prostitute, find their paths crossing at several junctures of the investigation. Everyone seems to be connected and all roads lead to a surprising and horrifying discovery.I'll leave the story at that so as not to give away to much of this intricate mystery.
The characters are enthralling and bigger than life. Get involved with Bud White(Russell Crowe), the strong arm detective who is useful in beating confessions out of prisoners.He also has a big problem with anyone who may abuse women. Jack Vincennes(Kevin Spacey), the detective who is all about what's in it for him.He is the technical advisor for a Dragnet like TV show, and is all show himself.Ed Exley(Guy Pearce), the seemingly mild mannered detective, but will do what it takes to get ahead.The Veronica Lake look alike prostitute(Kim Basinger), the sleezy tabloid writer(Danny Devito), the harsh Chief of Detectives(James Cromwell) and the mysterious millioniare(David Strathairn) will all keep you involved as well.
Also very much part of the plot are actual people, places and events of historical importance to the time and setting. Mickey Cohen, notorious drug kingpin,The "Bloody Christmas" fiasco, The "Formosa Cafe"(built in 1929 and sits across from Goldwyn Studios, frequented by many movie stars in the past), Hollywood Blvd, and the Pantages Theatre(home of the Academy Awards in the 50's)just to name a few.
It's a great film all around. Especially for Noir and mystery lovers. It's got action,romance and an intriguing plot.Directed by Curtis Hanson who really takes you back to the L.A. of the 50's. The musical score by Jerry Goldsmith mixed with other songs of the era add to the feeling for the time and place.
The DVD can be viewed in English or French, both in the 5.1 Dolby Surround, which is fabulous.It is in wdiescreen on a dual layer format. I only noticed one ot two quick little pauses that the dual layer sometimes causes. It wasn't anything distracting from the film. The colors were beautiful and the picture clear and pleasing. There are some fun extras on this DVD. Navigate through the "Hush Hush Headliners" and you'll discover all kinds of goodies. There's a map tour of the film's key locations, there are some interviews with the cast and Curtis Hanson that are real informative, and you can isolate the score if desired. Plus much more(see tech info for complete list). All in all a great DVD.
At this time I only see this 2 film package for sale for a price that will probably come out more expensive then buying them separately from outside sellers(even including paying shipping twice), so keep an eye on the prices and watch for the best deal. Prices do change.
Also recommended for more great modern noir with a great cast including Joe Pesci and Barbara Hershey check out:
Public EyeTh
"So remember Dear Readers, You heard it here first. Off the record, On the Q.T. and Very...HUSH HUSH..."(Danny Devito)....Laurie
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