Review of Bugsy (1991) by Danny R — 11 Nov 2010

Warren Beatty gives the finest and most forceful performance of his career as Benjamin "Bugsy" Siegel, the legendary psychotic playboy gangster who help build Las Vegas. He was a brilliant visionary who carved Las Vegas out of the dry Nevada desert, and built the fabled Flamingo hotel, and later the gambling mecca.

Bugsy is the quintessential homicidal sociopath, a man who as charming, manipulative and successful as he is delusional and very dangerous. It will be his over-powering narcissism that ultimately will bring him down, and seal his fate.

He has a tempestuous love-hate relationship with Hollywood actress Virginia Hill, who been around the block more than once, she is beautifully played by Beatty's real-life wife Annette Benning. Their scenes together have a real sizzling chemistry.

Magnificent direction by Barry Levinson with stunning supporting performances by Harvey Keitel, Ben Kingsley, Elliott Gould, Joe Mantegna, Bebe Neuwirth and Wendy Phillips. Amazing cinematography by Allen Daviau and a solid score by Ennio Morricone.

Brilliant production design by Dennis Gassner. A gangster epic that is absorbing, gritty and totally engrossing. Nominated for 10 Academy Awards including Best Picture, Best Director and Best Actor. Highly Recommended.