Review of The Grifters (1990) by Gregory G — 12 Mar 2013

A taut, stylized modern noir based on the Jim Thompson pulp novel about three con artists in Los Angeles who double cross each other. John Cusack is a small-time swindler; Anjelica Huston is his steely bookmaker mother; Annette Bening is his floozy lover who tempts him with the long-term con.

Set in seedy hotels and run-down buildings, this is a 40s style noir with a contemporary amorality. Huston is commandingly seductive as a woman willing to eat her young, like an animal, for her own survival.

There is the suggestion of an incestuous relationship that adds sting to the betrayals. Cusack is impressive in his first full dramatic role. Bening uses a sultry voice like Lauren Bacall that is enticing.

Pat Hingle is frightening as Huston's boss. Typically proficient direction is by Stephen Frears. Donald E. Westlake did the superb adaptation. The lurid cinematography is by Oliver Stapleton. Music is by Elmer Bernstein.

Martin Scorsese co-produced and provided the narration. With Henry Jones, JT Walsh, Charles Napier, Jeremy Piven, Stephen Tobolowsky.