Original interpretation — not a still from the production
A stylised, operatic examination of law and order clashing with organised crime during America’s Prohibition era.
The Continental Verdict
Essential
Brian De Palma’s 1987 masterwork, *The Untouchables*, offers a meticulously crafted, if heightened, portrayal of the relentless pursuit of justice against the backdrop of 1930s Chicago. Eliot Ness, portrayed with earnest conviction by Kevin Costner, assembles a small, incorruptible team to dismantle Al Capone’s illicit empire. De Palma, alongside cinematographer Stephen H. Burum, transforms the grimy realities of Prohibition into a visually arresting spectacle, frequently employing slow-motion and evocative compositions to elevate moments of brutal violence into a ballet of confrontation. Sean Connery’s Oscar-winning performance as the grizzled Irish beat cop Jim Malone anchors the film with a world-weary pragmatism, providing a necessary foil to Ness’s idealism.
Ennio Morricone’s iconic score, a melancholic and triumphant blend of orchestral majesty and haunting pan flutes, is integral to the film’s enduring power, elevating each dramatic beat and action sequence. The period detail, from the architecture of Chicago to the precisely tailored wardrobes, creates an immersive experience that transports the viewer to a volatile moment in American history. While perhaps not a strictly factual account, *The Untouchables* excels as a cinematic retelling, exploring themes of morality, duty, and the seductive allure of power and corruption within the framework of a classic good-versus-evil narrative.
Why Watch It
The Gentleman Factor
A study in unwavering conviction and the personal cost of upholding the law. Also, a masterclass in maintaining sartorial standards amidst chaos.
Look Out For
- 1930s Chicago
- Art Deco architecture
- Gritty urban landscapes
The Locations
Chicago, Montana
More from the travel pages →The Cars
Ford Model A, Cadillac V-16, Lincoln Model K
More from motoring →The Wardrobe
Giorgio Armani suits, fedoras, trench coats, double-breasted suits
More on style →The Soundtrack
Ennio Morricone
Into the music room →Watch Next
Where to Watch
Available on physical media and most major streaming platforms.
For the Collection
Also in The Criminal Gentleman
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