LA Confidential (1997) Review in 2025
LA Confidential is a neo-noir crime thriller that takes place in 1950s Los Angeles, following the story of three police officers as they uncover a conspiracy involving a movie star, a politician, and a crime boss.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for family viewing due to mature themes, strong language, and graphic violence.
CineReview Recommendation
LA Confidential is a must-watch for fans of crime thrillers and neo-noir. It's a complex, engaging, and thought-provoking film that explores themes of corruption, power, and the human condition. Watch it in theaters or on a big screen for the best viewing experience.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie revolves around the investigation of a murder that leads to a complex web of corruption and deceit, involving a powerful crime boss, a corrupt politician, and a movie star with a dark secret. The story takes a dark and unexpected turn, revealing the true nature of the characters and their motivations.
Review Details
story9.80/10
The story is engaging, complex, and full of twists and turns. The plot is well-developed, and the pacing is well-balanced. The story explores themes of corruption, power, and the dark side of human nature.
acting9.80/10
The acting is exceptional. The cast delivers outstanding performances, bringing depth and nuance to their characters. The chemistry between the actors is palpable, and their performances are memorable.
characters9.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex. The actors deliver outstanding performances, bringing depth and nuance to their characters. The characters are relatable, and their motivations are believable.
direction9.80/10
The direction is excellent. Curtis Hanson brings a unique vision to the story, using a non-linear narrative and a blend of film noir and neo-noir elements. The direction is atmospheric, and the visuals are stunning.
cinematography9.50/10
The cinematography is outstanding. The use of lighting, color, and composition is exceptional. The visuals are stunning, and the film's aesthetic is reminiscent of classic film noir.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's complex story, well-developed characters, and outstanding direction make it a standout in the crime thriller genre. The cinematography and acting are also exceptional, making this a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Cons
The film's pacing can be slow at times, and some viewers may find the non-linear narrative confusing. However, these minor issues do not detract from the overall experience.
Notable Quotes
"I don't know what the hell I'm doing here."
"I'm not a cop, I'm a detective."
"You're a real stand-up guy, aren't you?"
