"THE UNTOUCHABLES" - HOLLYWOOD CLASSIC MOVIE REVIEW

Directed by Brian De Palma and written by David Mamet, *The Untouchables* in (1987), is a cinematic masterpiece that has cemented its place as one of Hollywood’s most iconic crime dramas. Based on the real-life exploits of federal agent Eliot Ness and his team during the Prohibition era, the film is a gripping tale of justice, morality, and the relentless pursuit of righteousness in the face of corruption. With a stellar cast led by Kevin Costner, Sean Connery, Robert De Niro, and Andy Garcia, *The Untouchables* is a visually stunning, emotionally charged, and narratively compelling film that continues to captivate audiences decades after its release.

Set in 1930s Chicago, the film follows Eliot Ness, played by (Kevin Costner), a straight-laced and idealistic Treasury agent tasked with bringing down the infamous mob boss Al Capone, played by (Robert De Niro). Capone, a larger-than-life figure, has built an empire on bootlegging, bribery, and violence, evading prosecution through a combination of intimidation and corruption. Ness, initially naive about the extent of Capone’s influence, quickly realizes that traditional methods of law enforcement are futile in a city where the police and politicians are in the mob’s pocket.

Determined to succeed, Ness assembles a small, dedicated team of “untouchables”—men who cannot be bribed or intimidated. This team includes Jimmy Malone, played by (Sean Connery), a seasoned and street-smart Irish cop; George Stone, played by (Andy Garcia), a rookie marksman with a sharp mind; and Oscar Wallace, played by (Charles Martin Smith), an accountant who provides the financial expertise needed to take down Capone’s empire. Together, they wage a dangerous and often brutal war against Capone and his henchmen, risking their lives to uphold the law.

One of the film’s most striking aspects is its exploration of morality and the cost of justice. Ness begins his mission as a by-the-book agent, believing in the purity of the law. However, as he witnesses the depths of Capone’s cruelty and the corruption that enables it, he is forced to confront the moral ambiguities of his mission. Malone, played with gravitas and wisdom by Sean Connery, serves as a mentor to Ness, teaching him that sometimes the ends justify the means. Malone’s famous line, “He pulls a knife, you pull a gun. He sends one of yours to the hospital, you send one of his to the morgue,” encapsulates the film’s central theme: the necessity of adapting one’s principles in the face of overwhelming evil.

The film’s narrative is punctuated by several unforgettable set pieces, each showcasing Brian De Palma’s masterful direction and flair for suspense. The most iconic of these is the Union Station sequence, a tense and meticulously choreographed shootout inspired by the famous Odessa Steps scene from Sergei Eisenstein’s *Battleship Potemkin*. As Ness and his team attempt to intercept a mob courier, the scene unfolds with a baby carriage tumbling down the stairs, symbolizing the innocence caught in the crossfire of their battle. This sequence, accompanied by Ennio Morricone’s haunting score, is a masterclass in cinematic tension and remains one of the most celebrated moments in film history.

Robert De Niro’s portrayal of Al Capone is another highlight of the film. De Niro brings a chilling charisma to the role, capturing Capone’s ruthlessness and larger-than-life persona. From his menacing monologues to his explosive outbursts, De Niro’s performance is both terrifying and mesmerizing, making Capone a villain for the ages.

Kevin Costner, in one of his breakout roles, delivers a compelling performance as Eliot Ness. His transformation from an idealistic agent to a hardened warrior of justice is both believable and emotionally resonant. Sean Connery, who won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, is the heart of the film, embodying the wisdom, courage, and moral complexity of Jimmy Malone. Andy Garcia and Charles Martin Smith round out the cast with strong performances, adding depth and humanity to their characters.

Ennio Morricone’s score is another standout element of *The Untouchables*. His music, with its sweeping orchestral themes and haunting melodies, elevates the film’s emotional impact and underscores its epic scope. The score perfectly complements the film’s themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the fight for justice.

At its core, *The Untouchables* is a story about the triumph of good over evil, but it is also a nuanced exploration of the sacrifices required to achieve that triumph. The film does not shy away from the brutality and moral compromises inherent in Ness’s mission, making its eventual victory all the more poignant. The final courtroom scene, where Capone is finally brought to justice on charges of tax evasion, is a satisfying conclusion to the film’s narrative arc, underscoring the idea that even the most powerful criminals can be held accountable.

*The Untouchables* remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its powerful performances, masterful direction, and compelling storytelling. It is a film that resonates with audiences not only for its historical significance but also for its timeless themes of justice, morality, and the enduring human spirit. Decades after its release, *The Untouchables* continues to inspire and entertain, solidifying its place as one of Hollywood’s greatest achievements.