L.A. Confidential (1997)

Nominee

This is a very cool movie that converses intimately with its time period, its location, and the flaws of the justice system it illuminates while also paying homage to the film noir of the past.

Set in L.A. during the 1950's we are submerged into a mess of glamour and what lies slightly lower than skin deep: corruption. A restaurant massacre brings to light the injustices of the system, a system where sex, drugs and violence are the currency to power. This is a film with a lot of potential but certainly has the risk of being done poorly. Yet this film reaches success through admiral acting, flawless pacing, and attention to shooting and editing that gives the viewer multiple layers of access.

I don't really feel I have to go into to much depth with the members of the cast. Although it is fun to see many of these now veterans of the screen at the beginning of their careers. Guy Pearce and Russell Crowe play their character foil against each other well. They embody two sides of the system, both of which are ultimately needed to solve the case. It's good cop/bad cop at it's finest. Kevin Spacey and Danny Devito both play strong characterizations as they are products of the media component of L.A. And Kim Basinger gives us a strong performance as woman who is just trying to get by in a world where she is helpless.  All of these were commendable efforts.

The pacing of the narration was impeccable. Moving with realistic haste whilst also making sure the audience was not lost in the shambles of details it was engaging in. However it also left some of the responsibility to the audience without neglecting them. A well done execution of a script.

Lastly, The shooting and editing worked closely with each other making the movie interesting to watch.  Using point of view shots and graphic matches, we were allowed into the minds of the characters and then released while remaining rooted in the reality of the story.

Overall: This is a sharp murder mystery spiced with Hollywood glamour and social commentary. I found it an enjoyable watch that I never would have seen without doing this quest. Happy Watching!