Devil's Advocate (Unrated Director's Cut) [Blu-ray]

Al Pacino is a consummate master of his craft and Keanu Reeves always delivers a solid and thoroughly enjoyable performance. The Diabolical premise is old as the hills, but this particular plot is a brilliant departure from the usual Faustian bargain theme. The script dispenses with the moth eaten, morality play approach and brings it into the late 20th century for a much needed and spectacular makeover; one that would even make a fashion runway model envious. The extensive filming in Manhattan and the very gifted supporting cast are skillfully utilized to convey a realistic and accurate glimpse into the life and politics of the Big Apple or any major city around the globe. Unfortunately, I had issues with the portrayal of Reeve's wife; also an attorney, although of a lesser caliber. It's not uncommon for some wives to adjust to life in "the big city" wherever that may be; when their ambitious husband is promoted by his company to a lofty position that requires a disruptive uprooting of the family. This is the first time I've been disappointed by Charlize Theron because her character is scripted to behave more like a very sheltered soccer mom rather than a tough, seasoned lawyer with razor sharp smarts . It is the latter assessment that is a more accurate and palatable description of Ms. Theron's approach to acting; and I suspect her private personality as well. I prefer to fault the director for Ms. Theron's highly erratic and episodic portrayal of an unsophisticated wife behaving like an emotionally unstable and naive "innocent" who fell off a turnip truck who cries and complains incessantly about being abandoned; it's absolutely horrendous. Pacino in his role of the "Fallen One" presents the idea that ".....vanity is my favorite vice." I think that's questionable and highly subjective; however we must remember that this commentary is based on a centuries old depiction of Moses descending from a mountain with stone tablets; it is a tad cliche. The film is a voyeurs dream come true and feeds the audience with never ending depictions of life at the pinnacle of Le Haute Monde that are in themselves enticing and enviable as they are sumptuous. This is "The Devil Wears Prada" on a life threatening overdose of illegal steroids. Pacino delivers an astounding and mind blowing monologue near the end of the film that in itself qualifies as a reason to watch this amazing film. Mr. Pacino's performance convinces you that the Prince of Darkness is capable of making the infamous attorney Roy Cohn in Tony Kushner's "Angels in America" (HBO movie version) a siren of sublime delight. Ironically, the role of attorney Cohn is also played by Al Pacino which is an amusing irony to say the least. How many actors can boast that they can be compared to and be outdone by themselves. Think about that one.

Good movie

Great movie second time watched

Al Pacino is always good. It should be worn out but it’s in great condition.

Very good acting and entertaining movie

The film builds tension masterfully, drawing viewers deeper into its morally complex world. The pacing is sharp, the themes are thought-provoking, and the atmosphere is thick with suspense. Just when you think you’ve figured it all out, the movie delivers a clever and unexpected twist at the end that redefines everything that came before it. It’s a smart, stylish film with great performances—and that final twist is the icing on an already devilishly good cake.

Live everything about this movie.

Love this movie!