Review of Once Upon a Time in America (1984) by Liam K — 08 Mar 2011

I've heard this referred to as a "flawed masterpiece" and I would agree. It has great moments and wonderful acting but overall has so many dynamics to deal with and, even with a long run time, I don't think it does a good enough job fleshing them all out, save for the Noodles-Max story.

The movie definitely aspires to be great and, like the saying goes, shoot for the moon and if you miss you'll be with the stars. Not as great as it could have been but still worth a watch for sure if you like movies, particularly gangster epics or tales of love and betrayal.

And definitely catch the full 229 minute version. It sounds ridiculous but if you really wanna get the full scope of what this movie is trying to say, then it is a must.