The Untouchables

More so than a movie, more so than a story, this flick is an entertainment. It can hardly be called flawless, but when you’re watching it you really couldn’t care less, because it is so engaging. Those flaws come largely—and somewhat ironically given the screenwriter’s reputation for a smartly crafted story—from David Mamet’s script, which indulges in a lot of bland exposition in its dialogue and plays fast and loose not only with the history, but also with just plain good storytelling. Despite his legendary arrogance about his craft, this work suggests Mamet doesn’t merit the rep. So if the storytelling is less than Grade A, why then does this movie work so well? Chalk it up to a host of likable characters, truly exceptional production design—everything looks fabulous, from the Armani clothes to the period cars to the detailed build of every inhabited space—and a plethora of fantastic scenes, including great, well-choreographed action sequences, impressive visuals (director Brian de Palma’s handiwork), and a whole catalog of memorable lines. Get enough of those goodies together and an audience will forgive a movie’s flaws. (One extra perspective added by re-watching this film in 2026: just how much Robert De Niro’s Al Capone stirs up echoes of a certain president.) I don’t know about untouchable, certainly not impeccable—but very, very watchable.

Mission: Impossible

I missed out on this one for some 27 years. That seems...highly improbable. Especially considering how prominent this film and its sequels became. In truth, the old TV show came across (to me, at least) as not particularly fertile ground for growing a whole film franchise, and in this first entry in what became a series, it doesn't always look that promising. As a stand alone piece, this is mostly entertaining work, with some decent action sequences, though hardly knock-your-socks-off stuff. Perhaps that’s the product of watching this flick so many years after its first arrival; action filmdom has largely--in every sense of the word--moved on to bigger and better things since the mid ‘90s.  The story here is relatively straightforward, unlike many a spy movie; perhaps that is a key to how this film and its sequels have had such broad appeal. Then again, Tom Cruise's charisma contributes tremendously to that success, too. His inherent confidence--the key trait that he brings to his every role--shines through throughout the proceedings, giving the viewer the sense that he’s being guided all the way through by the surest of leaders. You never really doubt that the hero is going to come out on top, whatever obstacles are placed in his way, and thus the climax and conclusion prove satisfying. Ultimately, it’s not the greatest thing ever, but it’s a good way to kill a couple of idle hours, and sometimes that’s what watching a movie is all about. 

Mission to Mars

Much like the titular planet: lifeless and kind of stale. But a good cast gives it a few decent moments.