Review of Before the Devil Knows You're Dead (2007) by Christy B — 09 Jul 2009
Sidney Lumet's work is often socially conscious, ambiguously moral and always complex. Before the Devil Knows You're Dead is, in essence, a simple story of a family jewel heist gone very wrong, told in non-linear fashion.
It draws the viewer in slowly, methodically, as it unravels and the emotionally disconnected characters begin to implode. Hoffman is a powerhouse in this role. It's hard to take your eyes from him on the screen, and Hawke acts as the perfect foil.
Finney was a stroke of genius by casting and plays the father, commanding the screen during his limited scenes. There are some interesting and stylized editing techniques employed in this film and the character blocking is something of a dance, advancing and retreating, mirroring the level of emotional intimacy between the characters.
This paired with a simple, driving theme shows Lumet's brilliance at building momentum and suspense. It is definitely a film that deserves multiple screening to fully appreciate it's artistry.
This review of Before the Devil Knows You're Dead (2007) was written by Christy B on 09 Jul 2009.
Before the Devil Knows You're Dead has generally received very positive reviews.
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