Review of Bugsy (1991) by Gregory G — 06 Aug 2014

Warren Beatty as gangster Bugsy Siegel and Annette Bening as his moll Virginia Hill have a sizzling chemistry and old-style Hollywood glamour that helps to overcompensate for the conventionality of this traditional gangster picture directed by Barry Levinson.

James Tobak adapted Dean Jennings's book "We Only Kill Each Other," detailing Siegel's romantic pursuit of Hill, and his business dealings with mob associates, to build the Flamingo Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.

Beatty has great intensity in one of his best performances, but at times his intemperance feels overly vain and flamboyant. Bening is seductive and looks gorgeous. She has an easygoing repartee with Beatty that is fun, at first.

Eventually, the relationship turns sour with the rest of the movie and our overall enjoyment fades. There are striking images by cinematographer Allen Daviau. Levinson has assembled a marvelous cast of supporting players: Ben Kingsley as Meyer Lanskey, Harvey Keitel as Mickey Cohen, Elliott Gould, Joe Mantegna, Bebe Neuwirth, and Bill Graham as "Lucky" Luciano.

Produced by Levinson, Beatty, and Mark Johnson. Ennio Morricone contributed the forgettable score. Won Oscars for Best Art Direction and Costume Design.