Disturbing Drama

Rating: 8/10 (17 January 2004)

I didn't know much about "Donnie Brasco" when I watched it, and I really didn't know what to expect. What I got, however, was an intense, unnerving drama dealing with one's man struggle to cope with two different lives.
First of all, the direction of Mike Newell and the cinematography of Peter Sova were breathtaking. They manage to keep the atmosphere dark, yet with glimpses of light as if to show the hopefulness in even the worst circumstances. The acting is also incredible, with Johnny Depp even, in my opinion, out-acting Al Pacino. Also, Patrick Doyle does an excellent job with the score, similar to the direction and cinematography in its tones. The best thing about the movie, though, is the brilliant way in which it shows the effect an undercover job can have on one's family, one's marriage, and even one's friendships.
The only complaint I have is against the director that I just recently praised. The pacing at the beginning of the movie fails to satisfy. It starts and stops, until finally, after the first 20 or 30 minutes it decides where it's going and follows the right path to near perfection.
Final Grade: A.