Stellar cast and flawless directing-spoilers

Rating: 9/10 (10 March 2016)

I wasn't sure at first about the choice of Johnny Depp to play the infamous Boston mob kingpin "Whitey" Bulger, as it seems of late his cinematic output has been at best , uneven, and at worst, abysmal. Under Scott Cooper's direction, though, Depp turns in a performance that is truly astonishing. Depp manages to convey both unbridled mob violence with scenes of domestic tenderness, often within mere seconds of one another. He is ably supported by the fantastically cast Joel Edgerton as the not-so-upright FBI agent who nails a perfect Bostonian accent in addition to the nuances of his conflicted relationship with Bulger. In fact, all the supporting roles are faultlessly cast. Benedict Cumberbatch-who seems destined to become the all-time winner of the Cinematic Workaholic Award at the rate he's racking up roles-is exquisite as Bulger's social climbing yet loyal brother, and Kevin Bacon and Peter Sarsgaard both give their brief appearances wonderful texture and depth. My one negative is the failure to really flesh out the female characters, with the exception being that of a young hooker who has one of 2015's great dramatic scenes. I love love love that particular scene both for the heartbreaking emotion and self-assured camera work. Hopefully this is the start of more good work to come from both Depp and Scott Cooper.