Review of Serpico (1973) by Matt W — 27 Nov 2012

Sidney Lumet's Serpico is a brilliant piece of drama that has a stellar cast and terrific story. This is among the greatest dramas ever put on celluloid. Lumet understands how to craft a solid picture, and he takes his time to craft a film that tells an engaging story with phenomenal characters.

This film tells the real life story of Frank Serpico, an honest cop working in a corrupt environment. Brilliantly acted by Al Pacino, the lead character is a powerful tour de force performance that ranks among the actors greatest works.

This is a brilliant film that delivers a great story, and you sympathize with the lead character because Al Pacino has so much screen presence that you simply cannot tear yourself away from the screen.

Very well crafted, directed and paced, Serpico is yet another flawless masterwork by director Sidney Lumet who can always craft a thought provoking work of cinema. I thoroughly enjoyed the film, and I was mesmerized by Pacino who is absolutely terrific here.

This was made during his peak years, and he was on a roll with making great films. This is a fine crime drama that should appeal to viewers of the genre, and if you love true life picture, then Serpico is definitely not a film to pass up on.

Lumet's flair for what makes an effective story is apparent throughout, and he is able to get the most out of his actors because he always seems to have great stories to tell, and this is such an example of a film that needed to be told because true stories are simply compelling and engaging and Lumet definitely captures the feel and essence of its key elements.

Frank Serpico's determination of uncovering the corruption in the NYPD is terrific and his inner conflict and subsequent struggle to do what's right is what keeps you hooked from start to finish.

An unforgettable drama definitely worth your time.