Unique

Rating: 10/10 (4 May 2000)

I believe this movie is what you call a "sleeper". It is not a hugely popular movie (i.e. it's not played verbatim on cable) but it is a moving, if not humorous, film.
The main reason why I enjoyed it was the relatively small cast of characters. There was Pacino, brilliant as always, his co-horts, the hostages and several members of the police squad. Granted, the streets become filled with onlookers, but they are extras-we do not know any of them personally. A small cast makes for less confusion and more attention is paid to the core story.
John Cazale, who was previously scene with Pacino in "The Godfather" and later with Robert DeNiro in "The Deer Hunter" is wonderful in his role of the troubled and nervous bank robber, Sal. Poor, poor Sal. Mr. Cazale was a gifted actor and it is a shame that this one was one of his last movies. But it's probably also one of his finest.
Al Pacino, a terribly gifted actor, turns in another stellar performance, riding high off the success of the "Godfather" movies from the previous 4 years. He is constantly under pressure, nervous, confused, but very believeable, sometimes humorous. The scene in which he screams "Attica! Attica!" at the police is the most moving moment in the film and also one of the most powerful scenes in all of cinema history.
Do yourself a favor and sit down with this movie. The story line will capture you from the moment you start watching. No time is wasted on preliminary scenes or planning. You start watching and Boom!, there you are, in the middle of it all. The film will take you on a ride of emotions and feelings and will not let you off until the credits start to role. Then, you will be utterly stunned at what you have seen.