A Tale In America

Rating: Null/10 (11 December 2012)

Leone is one of the few 'multilayered' directors who really understand their craft. His films are usually both story driven and character driven. They have a larger than life look but at the same time they're also very subtle. Leone especially succeeds in subtly building tension. His films are also atmospheric creating a distinct feel of mystery, darkness and an impending doom and at the same time he steers clear of melodrama.
'Once Upon a Time in America' is also one such film except that this one is more disturbing and emotionally engaging than most of his other works. How a man ends up raping the love of his life, how a friendship that emerged in childhood is permanently destroyed by greed and betrayal, how guilt can eat a person up...all of these themes are explored in an intriguing story.
The film is also visually fascinating. The topnotch cinematography by Delli Colli, Morricone's wonderful score and Baragli's solid editing and the work of the lighting team are first rate. The work of the art department is also very precise and detailed as they successfully capture the time and smoothly display the difference between each time period. Lastly, the performances are of top quality. De Niro, Woods, Williams and McGovern are excellent. The child actors deserve special mention and the supporting cast is great too.