Thursday, April 15, 2010

Prince of the City (1981)


Director: Sidney Lumet

Starring: Treat Williams, Jerry Orbach

More Info: IMDB

Tagline: A cop is turning. Nobody's safe.

Plot: A New York City narcotics detective reluctantly agrees to cooperate with a special commission investigating police corruption. However, he soon discovers that he's in over his head, and nobody can be trusted.



My Rating: 7/10

Would I watch it again? Sure

PotC is a very good, in-depth, detective drama that works all around. Treat Williams heads up a strong cast. So strong that it left me wondering yet again why Williams hasn't had the higher profile career he deserves. You've also got a bevy of great supporting actors like Bob Balaban and Lance Henriksen.

Williams' character is practically doomed from the start but it's his journey and his ultimate decisions that make it a worthwhile ride. It's talky but with some action sprinkled throughout. I kind of got a GOODFELLAS vibe from it but twisted around a bit. Unfortunately, the only drawback is its run time of 167 minutes. The length is certainly justified but if you're not prepared for it, it can detract from your experience as it feels every bit like 167 minutes. If you like crime/police drama you are sure to dig this one. I recently saw it at Big Lots for $3. Definitely worth the purchase at that price.

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