Pacino's Best, Lumet's Best

Rating: 9/10 (9 May 1999)

This is a love-it-or-loathe it film. I love it. It ranks very high on my all-time best list.
Pacino has (rightfully) received two-and-a-half decades of accolades for his role as Sonny, the loser bank robber without the wit to hold up a Dunkin' Donuts, let alone a bank. Pacino may have won his Oscar for "Scent of a Woman", but this is the role he will be remembered for.
But there are two key points to this film that often go overlooked. The first is John Cazale as Sal. Slow-witted and along for the ride, he is just as prepared to kill anyone who moves as he is to take a nap. Cazale was a gifted actor who only made five films before his untimely death - all five were best picture nominees and three of them won. This rivals his roles as Fredo for his best work.
(Nods also go to Chris Sarandon and Charles Durning for their crucial supporting roles).
The other fascinating point about this movie is its simplicity. It is essentially played out on one set and told like it is in real time, but it never really drags and it always finds a way of keeping your interest. Director Sydney Lumet creates an uneasy tension throughout this film that gnaws at you and makes you writhe in your seat. It has a walloping impact that lingers with you for days.
This is a great story, skillfully directed with astonishing performances. **** out of ****.