Review of The Insider (1999) by Steve M — 26 Feb 2013
Everything in "The Insider" is top-notch from the performances to the cinematography. Crowe, Pacino and Christopher Plummer certainly brought their A-game when they made this film. Reuniting with Mann four years after working with him on "Heat," Pacino is a little more restrained here as he turn in a more realistic and nuanced performance compared to nearly shouting every line he says in other movies.
Some would argue that Crowe's best performances can be seen in other films like "Gladiator" or "A Beautiful Mind," but I would argue that his role in "The Insider" is his best thus far as his performance showcases the physical and emotional impact that Wigand goes through as the movie progresses.
Plummer does a fantastic job by capturing the essence of "60 Minutes" correspondent Mike Wallace. Bruce McGill, Michael Gambon and Colm Feroe are good in small, but important supporting roles.
The performances aren't the only thing that elevates "The Insider." Mann brings his signature directional style to life thanks to cinematographer Dante Spinotti as this film is filled with a variety of effective camera angles complete with indirect focus and intense close-ups.
This review of The Insider (1999) was written by Steve M on 26 Feb 2013.
The Insider has generally received very positive reviews.
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