The Netflix Crime Thriller Classic That’s Still A Knockout
In the long and storied history of cinema, one genre has roots that date back to the first films ever produced. Crime thrillers, particularly noir-style period pieces, are among the most popular films of their time, often thanks to their ability to capture intrigue, mystery, and a gritty underworld atmosphere. One film that captures all of this mystique and more is 1997’s L.A. Confidential.
L.A. Confidential Is A Certified Cult Classic
L.A. Confidential is currently available to stream on Netflix. The film, which touts a staggering 99 percent certified fresh score on the review aggregate site Rotten Tomatoes, has become something of a cult classic in recent years, with modern audiences returning to the film fondly. Based on a novel of the same name written by American crime writer James Ellroy, the film takes place in 1953 Los Angeles, as many cultural and cinematic trends began shifting within the United States.
The Cast
The film was helmed by Curtis Hanson, best known for directorial efforts such as Too Big To Fail, In Her Shoes, and 8 Mile, starring Eminem. L.A. Confidential touts an all-star cast of A-listers, including Russell Crowe, Guy Pearce, Kim Basinger, James Cromwell, Kevin Spacey, and Danny DeVito. Believe it or not, Guy Pierce and Russell Crowe were not yet household names at the time of their casting, leaving some studio backers concerned that the film wouldn’t perform well for lack of name recognition.
A Story Of Scandal In The LAPD
Obviously, the two leading men would go on to become massive stars in the wake of L.A. Confidential, as the film was a tremendous financial and critical success. The film’s plot centers on a number of LAPD officers who each rely on their own strict moral codes, engaging in an intertwining plot that leaves them caught in a whirlwind of scandal.
This includes LAPD Sergeant Exley, who receives a promotion after volunteering to testify against a band of corrupt police officers within his precinct, as well as undercover officer White, who holds an obsession with enacting vigilante justice on men who abuse women.
White’s partner is among those fired due to Exley’s testimony, creating massive tension between the pair. However, due to circumstances outside of their control, they each investigate a robbery and multiple homicide that takes place at the local Nite Owl coffee shop, giving way to a vast conspiracy implicating a number of high-ranking police and politicians.
As L.A. Confidential continues to build toward a thrilling conclusion, the world and inhabitants of 1950s Los Angeles sing with incredible stylistic flair.
A Hit At The Box Office
L.A. Confidential was a massive financial success, taking in over $126 million at the worldwide box office against an estimated production budget of only $35 million. In 2015, the movie was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry, joining the ranks of under 1,000 films deemed culturally significant.
L.A. Confidential Is Streaming On Netflix
Though the film was a massive success, there have never been any official talks of a sequel or franchise, much to the chagrin of Russell Crowe, who has expressed in the past that he would love to portray his character again. For those who have not yet seen the film, L.A. Confidential is available to stream on Netflix today.
