State of Grace: Underrated Mob Movie with a Killer Cast?
Okay, guys, so I recently re-watched 'State of Grace' and I'm convinced it's one of the most underrated crime dramas out there. I mean, Sean Penn, Gary Oldman, Ed Harris?! How did this not become a HUGE classic? I think a lot of people were too busy with 'Goodfellas' that year, which, fair enough, but still! Anyone else feel me? Gary Oldman as Jackie Flannery basically steals the whole damn movie. He's completely unhinged but you kinda get why. That scene where they're all getting high and Jackie's just laughing maniacally before things get real? Chills. And then there's Sean Penn as Terry, the guy who comes back… but is he really "back"? The whole moral ambiguity of his character is what makes it so compelling. You're never quite sure whose side he's on, and Penn plays that tension perfectly. Is it just me or do you see the similarities to Departed? I will say, the pacing is a bit slow in places. And maybe Robin Wright's character could have been developed more beyond just being the love interest. But honestly, those are minor quibbles. The atmosphere is so gritty and the performances are so strong that it more than makes up for any shortcomings. The final shootout is also intense and bloody. I was on the edge of my seat! So yeah, if you're looking for a crime movie that's a little different and a lot darker than your average gangster flick, give 'State of Grace' a shot. Let me know what you think! Am I totally off-base here, or is it a hidden gem? Tell me your thoughts, people!!!
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