“Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead” (ThinkFilm)
One Step Ahead
There are some movies that contain acting so rich and powerful that it lifts an otherwise mildly entertaining story and makes it fascinating. Such is the case with “Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead.” Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Ethan Hawke, Marisa Tomei and Albert Finney are all at their best and that is very good indeed. Combined with Sidney Lumet’s powerful direction and a good script, this movie soars.
The story of the movie concerns the robbery of a jewelry store that has a tragic outcome. This tragedy affects brothers Andy and Hank Hanson (Hoffman and Hawke) who planned the robbery of their parents’ store in order to pay off some outstanding obligations.
Andy was the mastermind and Hank, the weaker of the two brothers, went along with the plan. It was when Hank brought in Bobby (Brian F O’Byrne), a small time crook, that things went downhill fast. Now there has been a death at the store and the brothers are panicked that they will be caught. While coping with their fear they also have to handle the family crises that has put their father (Finney) in a bad situation.
Hoffman is brilliant as ever in this film. He can play any role and make it unique. Plus he brings out the best in actors appearing opposite him. This is certainly the case with Hawke. He has never been this good in a role. He is all twitchiness and insecurity as the immature Hank.
Tomei also rises to the occasion. She plays Gina, wife to Andy and mistress to Hank. This is a complex role and one in which Tomei submerges herself in order to add all the nuances. Finney is pathetic and determined as the grieving father. He makes the most of his role and adds depth to what could have been a one-dimensional character.
The story is told in a non-linear fashion and Lumet keeps the settings clear in order to have them stack up to make a total picture. He is always in control of his story and his actors, and gives them the ability to express themselves with depth and clarity.
The film is rated R for profanity, violence and nudity.
Any movie with Hoffman is worth seeing. But this movie also gives you award winning performances by Tomei, Finney and especially Hawke. It isn’t a completely absorbing film but every time the pace gets too slow the acting talent picks it up.
“Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead” is a movie that should be seen. It is not a family film by any means but it is one adults can enjoy and appreciate.
I scored “Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead” a stay ahead 7 out of 10.
