Review of Sleepers (1996) by Adam M. F — 09 Oct 2010

This was once one of my favorite movies, even though it had a horrible subject matter. It was well handled, slickly directed and well acted by an all star cast.

Some 13 years later and whilst I still think it's a well handled movie, it feels like it's in a bit of a rush to get to the big mid-movie conclusion. And that's the problem, the movie effectivley reaches its climax mid movie. There are some nice moments after that but most of the court room stuff is quite hum-drum.

Kevin Bacon is very good as sadistic guard Sean Nokes, Robert de Niro is likable in a minor role as "Father Bobby", Dustin Hoffman does a nice underplayed turn as a mob lawyer, Jason Patric is the weak link I'm afraid. He cant quite hit the notes he's going for. His bland voice over work is also weak. Brad Pitt is still in his pretty boy stage and cant quite manage the complex depths needed for such a tortured character. Minnie Driver (pre ego) is decent in a small role and both Ron Elard and Billy Cruddup do well with their supporting roles. (I picked Cruddup out back then as a star in waiting. I guess we're still waiting but he's great!).

Worth a go, if you can stomach the complex and upsetting subject matter.