Review of The Iceman (2012) by Ana B — 09 Feb 2014

Based in the life of famous hit man, Richard Kuklinski this is a biopic of a notorious killer that murdered over a hundred people in the 60's 70's until he was caught in the 80's. He was ruthless but, at the same time, he kept an ordinary life in suburbia with his wife and two daughters that knew nothing whatsoever of his real job. The movie tells us of this split personality, kissing his daughters good night after killing someone by order of local gangster Roy Demeo. There are little hints of a very abusive childhood but there are only brushstrokes, the script is completely centred in his adulthood, and his successful career as a contract killer.

It is a relatively original film with cracking performances of the main leads, especially Michael Shannon is very believable as Kuklinski. It is a grisly story of a man that was very skilled in doing something horrifying but that loved his family dearly. Most people would perceive that as a contradiction but he managed for many years without raising suspicions.

It is a good movie that fans of thrillers will enjoy along with drama lovers, let's not forget that ultimately this is the story of the breakdown of a family too. It gives you the creeps and also food for thought.