Review of Kiss of Death (1995) by Timothy S — 07 Aug 2014

The 1990's were a great decade for crime dramas, and "KIss of Death" is one of the most overlooked and underappreciated gems there was. This smartly written, complex thriller is a real joy to uncover, loosely based on the 1947 film of the same name that updates the plot in all the right ways.

Screenwriter Richard Price not only makes the material relevant for more modern times but he also intricately layers the plot so the film surprises at every turn and keeps it fresh and worth following.

It also features one of the best ensemble casts of the year, with a terrifically maniacal performance by Nicolas Cage at the center of it all. He doesn't play villains very often, which is something he should reconsider after seeing his rage-filled, adrenaline-fueled performance in this. The film stars David Caruso, fresh off of "NYPD Blue" starring in his first feature and astonishingly enough holding his own against the big boys. He looks smaller and carries himself modestly, but in the scenes requiring him to act tough (especially opposite Cage), he pulls off convincingly. It's a shame he never really became a major player.

Director Barbet Schroeder coupled with Price to give the film the cold, hard edge it needed to be successful. "Kiss of Death" is a remarkable film, elaborately plotted, wonderfully acted and completely lacking a sense of humor. In this case, that's a compliment.