Two NYPD cops investigate a string of vigilante
killings of murderers who've escaped justice. CRIME/DRAMA
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Righteous Kill (2008)Directed by Jon Avnet
Written by Russell Gerwitz Starring Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, 50 Cent, Carla Gugino, John Leguizamo, Donnie Wahlberg, Brian Dennehy |
It's always incredible to see legendary performers like Robert De Niro and Al Pacino share the screen together, and without them, Righteous Kill wouldn't be nearly as entertaining or intriguing. Despite being a film that was wholly written off back in 2008, Righteous Kill is a surprise to be had. It's an engaging crime thriller with an unpredictable twist ending that knocked my socks off for sure. I disagree entirely with the critic scores on this one. I liked it.
De Niro and Pacino play Turk and Rooster respectively, two jaded cops nearing the age of retirement. When they investigate a serial killer who's killing escaped criminals, their world starts to spiral as the evidence starts to point to a fellow cop being the killer. What follows is a twisty turn of events that ultimately ends with a gut punch. Although De Niro and Pacino are both fairly subdued and phoned-in, their presence alone adds a much-needed gravitas to the script, which isn't lousy but is pretty bland at times. There are a number of things to like about this film. It's two iconic actors doing what they do best, playing morally gray characters in a f**ked-up world of pain that keeps on giving. It may not be their best outing, but it's worth a watch for the story and the characters. |