A well-made detective story with a classic feel

Rating: 8/10 (29 October 2008)

Curtis Hanson's "L.A. Confidential" is set in Los Angeles in the 1950's and centres on a trio of police officers each trying to piece together the events surrounding a massacre in an all night diner. The film gives a modern twist to many elements of the film noir genre.
The filmmakers managed to assemble a fine cast which includes Aussies Russell Crowe & Guy Pearce at a time when they were practically unknown to American audiences. Kevin Spacey stands out as the flashy Jack Vincennes, Kim Basinger won a Best Supporting Actress Oscar for her performance and there are a number of talented character actors in smaller roles. (Personally, I don't think that Basinger deserved to win the Oscar but I may be in the minority there.)
The story, adapted from James Ellroy's novel by Hanson & Brian Helgeland, is a satisfying detective yarn that reflects the Hollywood image as it contrasts with Hollywood reality. The screenplay's intricacies invite comparison to "Chinatown", so it's no surprise that it landed the film it's second of two Oscars.
Curtis Hanson's direction is well-handled throughout as he somehow manages to give the film a 'classic' feel without making it seem like a derivative throwback. The setting may be the key in establishing this timeless look. The soundtrack is also worth mentioning since it includes some well-chosen music that goes a long way in enhancing the vibe. Jerry Goldsmith's score is another important element (coincidentally, it's faintly reminiscent of his work on "Chinatown").
The film's high ranking (#63 in the IMDb Top 250 as of this writing) is a bit of a surprise but I see no problem with according "L.A. Confidential" a status of modern day classic. It's only a short step away from a truly superlative crime drama like "Chinatown", which is high praise indeed.