Before the Devil Knows You're Dead (2007)
Short description
Before the Devil Knows You're Dead is a 2007 crime drama directed by Sidney Lumet and starring Philip Seymour Hoffman, Ethan Hawke, Marisa Tomei, and Albert Finney. The film follows two brothers, Andy (Hoffman) and Hank (Hawke), who are desperate for money and decide to rob their parents' jewelry store. However, their plan quickly goes awry when they discover that the store is already being robbed by someone else.
The film is a gripping exploration of the consequences of greed and desperation. Lumet's direction is masterful as he creates an atmosphere of tension and suspense throughout the movie. The performances from the cast are outstanding; Hoffman and Hawke both deliver powerful performances as two brothers whose lives have been ruined by their own bad decisions. Tomei also gives a strong performance as Andy's wife, Gina, who is struggling to keep her family together despite her husband's criminal activities. Finney also gives a memorable performance as Charles, the father of the two brothers who must confront his sons' actions.
The cinematography in Before the Devil Knows You're Dead is stunning; Lumet uses a variety of camera angles to create an intense atmosphere that keeps viewers on edge throughout the movie. The score by Carter Burwell also adds to this atmosphere with its haunting melodies that perfectly capture the mood of each scene.
Overall, Before the Devil Knows You're Dead is an excellent crime drama that will keep viewers on edge until its shocking conclusion. It features outstanding performances from its cast and masterful direction from Lumet that make it one of his best films in recent years. Highly recommended for fans of crime dramas or anyone looking for an intense viewing experience.