Gangsters have enjoyed a different type of notoriety in recent times. With various news reports on latest gangster-related crimes filling airwaves, these dubious actions still seem to fascinate. Movies and TV have only been too eager to further their dodgy allure with ‘The Sopranos’, ‘Empire’ and others cementing their place on the pop culture landscape. ‘Gangster Squad’ adds to this rough pile with an all-star cast providing a glamorous touch within the murky world in which they live.
Sgt. John O’Mara (Josh Brolin) has his work cut out. Dealing with a savage street war between rival gangs led by Mickey Cohen (Sean Penn), he attempts to curb the ongoing violence. Assisted by his co-Sgt Jerry (Ryan Gosling), O’Mara faces a tough test. With war-fare erupting and bent police-men on the crooked payroll, his bid to rid 1940’s society of well-dressed but deadly vagabonds pushes O’Mara to his limits.
That ‘Gangster Squad’ entertains says a lot about the commitment in providing something fresh. It is difficult adding anything new in this genre although director Ruben Fleischer has fun with the fanciful material. Whilst the characters aren’t particularly memorable, which is its main draw-back, Fleischer doesn’t hold back in showing the consequences of their actions. As each side battles to claim their territory, their dogged determination reveals their personas.
Those well versed in gangster lore may see much of ‘The Untouchables’ TV series in ‘Gangster Squad’. It borrows its almost cartoonish violence and glossy veneer with Brolin conveying the stoic square-jawed hero with aplomb. He is easily eclipsed by Penn who has a great time as the sneering villain. He adds much life to a fairly predictable screenplay with the outcome never in doubt. These elements are well served by some fine cinematography placing viewers right amongst the savage fray.
‘Gangster Squad’ is an entertaining addition to the gangster gallery. You may feel you’ve seen it all before although it does the job in providing some escapism even if it derives from the dubious source of a criminal’s bullet.
Movie Review Rating out of 10: 7
Movie Review by Patrick Moore
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