Cast
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Keanu Reeves
as Kevin Lomax
Al Pacino
as John Milton
Charlize Theron
as Mary Ann Lomax
Jeffrey Jones
as Eddie Barzoon
Judith Ivey
as Mrs. Lomax
Connie Nielsen
as Christabella
Craig T. Nelson
as Alexander Cullen
Tamara Tunie
as Jackie Heath
Ruben Santiago-Hudson
as Leamon Heath
Debra Monk
as Pam Garrety
Vyto Ruginis
as Weaver
Laura Harrington
as Melissa Black
Pamela Gray
as Diana Barzoon
George Wyner
as Meisel
Chris Bauer
as Gettys
Crew
Director
- Taylor Hackford
Producer
- Anne Kopelson
- Arnold Kopelson
- Arnon Milchan
Reviews
JPV852
Apparently I saw this before (had a rating on my computer program) but didn't really remember much of it. A bit uneven between a serious drama with supernatural fantasy, but I had fun with these performances by Reeves and Pacino (forgot how normal he once looked) and never a bad thing with Charlize Theron and Connie Nielsen being there for the obvious reasons. Not great and could've cut some of the running time but still found it somewhat entertaining. **3.5/5**
Sep 19, 2020
GenerationofSwine
OK, full disclosure, I have a thing for Al Pacino. I'll watch just about anything he's in and...if he screams and yells a monologue in it, if he delivers a diatribe of rage....yeah I get flashbacks to him screaming: "I'd take a flame thrower to this place" and roll my eyes back like a shark in a feeding frenzy.
Oh, yeah, almost forgot, Keanu is in this one too...but for a good slice of the film he doesn't play the most savory of characters and, really, honestly, he just seems too nice to play a lawyer...
...but despite that he does a pretty good job of exhibiting the ego that has to come with the law profession...just not the vile evilness. So, I can't totally fault him for miscast as I could for Dracula.
Jeffery Jones is in there too and due to recent revelations he totally fits the sleazy lawyer role.
But yeah, 1997, the 90s had a way with films that was only really beaten by the 70s and The Devil's Advocate is one of those films that could really only be made in those two decades. Stand alone horror not intended as a franchise piece and one with a twist that asks you to think a little.
No way that would be made today and that is a shame.
I could tout its glory, but really, honestly, the movie could have stank and I wouldn't care thanks to Pacino screaming "I'm a fan of man!" It's worth the watch.
Jan 14, 2023
CinemaSerf
If it looks too good to be true, then it probably is... That's what "Kevin" (Keanu Reeves) must learn to appreciate after he is offered a dream job at a prestigious New York legal firm by "Milton" (Al Pacino). The potential wealth and the status of his new career path bring out the green-eyed monster in him and together with his reluctant wife "Mary-Ann" (Charlize Theron) they are soon living it up in their penthouse apartment with plenty of money but an increasingly dwindling amount of time together. She starts to cool on their arrangement and wants to return to Florida but pretty soon it's clear that "Kevin" is addicted - and not to her! Pacino is on good form here as it becomes clear just who his character is, and how adeptly he is pulling all the strings and manoeuvring his new charge into a position that might suggest that the clue is in the title! Now as a life-long lover of the baddie in films, I felt a bit let down by the ending. Faust it isn't - but, to be fair, it still goes as close as Hollywood will probably ever go in portraying a characterisation of the epitome of evil (and offering a wonderful critique on vanity being the downfall of mankind) that actually has a fighting chance of prevailing! Reeves is not the finest actor to grace our screens. Easy on the eye, certainly, but somehow he's just a bit too lightweight here. That might be because, however, Pacino is very much in his element and even though it can drag at times during the almost 2½ hour running time, it's a remarkably compelling ride that still holds up quite well.
May 15, 2023
Thematic Analysis
This Drama/Mystery/Thriller/Horror film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. The Devil's Advocate presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director Taylor Hackford brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1997, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Devil's Advocate took approximately 13 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $57.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 144 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 193 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 395 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The film contains approximately 1096 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1997, when this film was released:
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Devil's Advocate shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Haunting of La Llorona, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Devil's Advocate offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Running with Scissors and Cocktail explore similar territory, The Devil's Advocate stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 17, 1997
- Runtime: 2h 24m
- Budget: $57,000,000
- Revenue: $153,000,000
