At the movies: Gangster Squad
Mickey Cohen was involved with organized crime in Chicago and was sent to Los Angeles to keep an eye on Bugsy Siegel. He did that and more – setting up his own operation and practically running the city. He had everyone on his payroll and did whatever he pleased since everyone was afraid to cross him. Growing tired of Cohen’s antics, the Police Chief put together a secret group of officers – a “Gangster Squad” – to operate under the radar and take him down.
When I asked a friend if she was interested in seeing Gangster Squad, she was rather surprised at my suggestion until I said two words: Ryan Gosling. The movie claims to be based on a true story but I haven’t been able to find anything about this group of policemen, so I’m guessing it’s rather loosely based on an actual event. I know the movie is about gangsters but it was more violent than I expected it to be – I thought it might have a noir feel to it. Neither my friend nor I loved the movie (although we did enjoy Gosling!) but we didn’t hate it either. It was just okay for both of us. I’d say this is one to rent.
I read a review that complained about the authenticity, saying Emma Stone’s teeth were too white for the time period! LOL My husband wants to see this one (he’s into violence) but not enough not to wait for it to be on tv or rental.
There had been talk around the Nawrot house about seeing this, but it got horrid reviews, so Gosling wasn’t enough to tip the scale. (Boy he sure is fun to watch though…). Well, this one did have some potential anyway.
There sure was a lot of hype about this movie so I was surprised when the reviews weren’t that great. I think I’ll skip this one all together.
Ever since watching The Untouchables all those years ago, I’ve loved gangster movies. The trailer of this movie was fabulous. But after reading your review, I’ll wait to watch it on DVD.
This one slipped past my radar. I like Gosling though but I cannot stand Emma Stone.
Thanks for your honest review. Sounds like a pass for me. I do love her dress.
I used to love gangster movies, and movies about the Mafia, but I haven’t watched one in a long time. The last time I saw a gangster movie it was the one starring Johnny Depp, and I can bet you know why I saw that one! I might actually like this one, but per your warning, I will wait for video.
Not really my type of movie, but I’d see it on Netflix, maybe.
If you say rent…I rent!
The plot sounds pretty intriguing actually – sad that the movie didn’t live up to it.
I’m with your friend- I would go for Ryan Gosling too. The trailer does look a little violent for me though, so I’ll take your advice and watch it at home.
And it shall be a renter!!! I think I’m going to go see Silver Lining Playbook for sure on Monday. It’s been a few years since I’ve been to the movies!
I haven’t seen too many raving review for this one. Bummer because I like gangster movies.
I’m not sure if I’ll ever watch this one or not. If I do I’ll rent it.
Good cast and story, however, the movie never really lives up to its full potential. Nice review.
I’m still going to see this, but now I may wait until it’s at the second run theater in town. It’s a lot cheaper that way.
Scott and I have both been curious about this one but 99% of the movies we watch these days are on the TV rather than big screen. And yes, Ryan Gosling is reason enough!
So now we know who your celebrity crush is!
It’s taken me years to realize that I just don’t like ganster movies, no matter who is in the cast. Jason loves them so I’m sure at some point I’ll end up seeing this one. At least I’ll have Ryan
I’ll definitely rent this one. I LOVE Ryan Gosling!