Cast
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Andy García
as Sean Casey
Ian Holm
as Liam Casey
James Gandolfini
as Joey Allegretto
Lena Olin
as Peggy Lindstrom
Shiek Mahmud-Bey
as Jordan Washington
Colm Feore
as Elihu Harrison
Ron Leibman
as Morgenstern
Richard Dreyfuss
as Sam Vigoda
Dominic Chianese
as Judge Impelliteri
Paul Guilfoyle
as McGovern
Bonnie Rose
as Instructor
Norman Matlock
as Detective
Sidney Armus
as Judge
Bobby Cannavale
as Vigoda Assistant #1
Marcia Jean Kurtz
as Eileen
Crew
Director
- Sidney Lumet
Producer
- Josh Kramer
- Thom Mount
Reviews
CinemaSerf
This film starts and ends with some lovely jazz, thereafter it is all rather an unremarkable crime thriller. When a drug dealer kills three cops and then escapes in a patrol car, the District Attorney "Morgie" (Ron Liebman) announces that when the perpetrator is apprehended, he is going to be prosecuted by the newly qualified lawyer (and ex-cop) son of one of those officers seriously injured by the attacker. "Casey" (Andy Garcia) is that man, and after a curiously far-fetched turn of events finds himself facing the killer in court and next thing, he is DA himself and party to an investigation into police corruption that might well lead to his own nearest and dearest. To be honest, I found this whole thing all just too convenient. It's all just a bit too "nice" and the courtroom scenes at the start which also feature Richard Dreyfuss are really underwhelming. The plot is messy and the conclusion really lacks, well, substance. It looks good and combined with the score is effective at creating a New York that is seedy and immoral - but Garcia just hasn't the gravitas to pull this off and Ian Holm (his father "Liam") is no great shakes either. It's watchable on the telly on a wet winter's evening, but that's about the height of it, sorry.
Feb 26, 2023
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Night Falls on Manhattan examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Sidney Lumet 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 reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Night Falls on Manhattan took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $10.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 113 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 152 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1997, when this film was released:
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- 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 Night Falls on Manhattan 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 Man from Hong Kong, which focuses more on action than character development, Night Falls on Manhattan offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Border and The Sugarland Express explore similar territory, Night Falls on Manhattan stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 21, 1997
- Runtime: 1h 53m
- Budget: $10,000,000
- Revenue: $9,889,670
