Review of Prince of the City (1981) by Naische F — 08 Oct 2008

Sidney Lumet's underrated, and sorely overlooked Prince of the City is a solid true story crime-drama about vast police corruption in 1970's New York City. Treat Williams delivers a live-wire performance as Daniel Ciello, a narcotics detective who is under investigation by the Internal Affairs department of the NYPD. Ciello reluctantly agrees to turn in evidences on dirty cops within the department, with the only exception being his partners; his brothers in the line of duty, be left out of the investigation. As the investigation continues Ciello puts his life on the line, his reputation in the garbage, strain on his family, and tests the bonds of his partners. As things slowly, but progressively get more and more out of hand, those sacred bonds of loyalty and trust will come crashing down.

Williams should have received an Oscar nomination for his performance, but was sadly overlooked. It's the kind of performance that should have elevated him to superstar status, but never quite happened. What wasn't forgotten was the methodically detailed and procedural-driven screenplay; which was nominated for an Academy Award. Director Sidney Lumet is in relatively familiar, but comfortable territory; going back to his Serpico days. Prince of the City is a by the book police drama of almost Shakespearian tragedy. The film's final moments hit, and hit hard. Prince of the City might be a good 20 minutes too long, but there's no denying Williams' performance or the film's intelligence. This is more than competent crime story that deserves more love, and fans of The French Connection, American Gangster or Lumet's own Serpico, should find plenty to enjoy with this one.