Stylish and Sleek: Before the Devil Knows You're Dead

Before the Devil Knows You're Dead
Directed by Sidney Lumet
Released October 26, 2007

Legendary director Sidney Lumet crafts a subtle crime thriller whose plot is an amalgam of Fargo and A Simple Plan but which finds itself in a more urban setting, that of New York City. What this film lacks in eerie country landscapes it makes up for with complex subplots and a nifty title that really fits each and every one of the characters. Philip Seymour Hoffman and Ethan Hawke are great as two brothers desperate to get ahold of some extra cash. Albert Finney's performance is not as affecting as it should be, but Marisa Tomei is wondrous despite very brief screentime. The editing is quick and helps frame a compelling story which only improves when transplanted into a city setting.

B+