Lucky Number Slevin
In a classic case of mistaken identity, a man (Josh Hartnett) is confused with the friend whose apartment he is staying in, and forced by a gangland boss (Ben Kingsley) to assassinate the son of his arch enemy. But perhaps this seemingly random stranger is not quite as unlucky or as unknowing as he initially appears.
Member Reviews
good movie - Tytee
I gave Lucky Number Slevin four stars for what it is: a smart, funny, stylish and entertaining Tarantino-esque gangster film with a top shelf cast. This is not a movie that will reveal anything about the human condition or the state of the world we live in. But if you are looking to have a good time for a couple of hours, this is a good way to do it.Brilliant At Times But Mostly Uneven - CharleyJames
Despite a high powered cast that includes Morgan Freeman and Sir Ben Kinglsey, and a barrel full of devilishly clever Hitchockian plot twists, Lucky Number Slevin is a terribly uneven film marked with moments of brilliance.
Its biggest sin is that it gives everything away about one-third of the way into the film - earlier if you understand a little Yiddish. A lesser sin is that the art direction and set design are way too over-the-top.
Don’t worry if you get lost; your chances of keeping up with the movie are decent. Although violent and bloody, it doesn’t take itself too seriously. Thus, with its suave, casual style, it’s easier to follow on screen than it is reading a synopsis. Lucky for Slevin (now there’s a play on words), the writing is its strongest asset. The cunning screenplay organizes the chaos well and when the film’s pieces finally create a complete puzzle, it makes for a satisfying conclusion. Especially notable is the film’s dialogue, which not only helps develop the characters in a fun and interesting way, but also adds an amusing spin on a familiar fable.
Yet the film’s humor is a double-edged sword. The casual approach and witty dialogue wound Slevin’s effectiveness. Director Paul McGuigan’s pacing is somewhat slack for a twisty thriller, and the humor — and a haphazard performance from Lucy Liu — makes the movie even less taut.
Additionally, it’s hard to take the intense action sequences and themes of revenge seriously with all the foolishness going on. The end result is a movie that tastes like the butcher left too much fat on the roast.
Is Slevin’s roast worth tasting? The script is clever, although the twists arentt difficult to predict. The casting is flawless, especially with Kingsley, Freeman, and Willis — but Josh Hartnett and Liu represent miscalculations on a grand scale.
Worthwhile only if you're looking for a tasty, easily-digested bit of violent froth served with a side of chuckles.What a Surprise! - Splendid_Dragon
Every so often you come across a movie you've never heard of that blows you away. Slevin is one of those movies. A terrific cast, wonderful acting, and a plot that just won't let go of you...it grabs you, and then proceeds to manipulate you, startle you, and baffle you - over and over again!
Morgan Freeman and Ben Kingsley are tremendous in small but vital roles. Bruce Willis leaves his smirk at home and does a fine job. Josh Hartnett does a crackerjack job as the mysterious lead. I was a little disappointed in Lucy Liu, who tended to swallow her words and made understanding her difficult.
But overall, I give this film 5 stars and the highest recommendation. Watch it - you won't be disappointed!
Member Reviews
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good movie - Tytee
I gave Lucky Number Slevin four stars for what it is: a smart, funny, stylish and entertaining Tarantino-esque gangster film with a top shelf cast. This is not a movie that will reveal anything about the human condition or the state of the world we live in. ...Brilliant At Times But Mostly Uneven - CharleyJames
Despite a high powered cast that includes Morgan Freeman and Sir Ben Kinglsey, and a barrel full of devilishly clever Hitchockian plot twists, Lucky Number Slevin is a terribly uneven film marked with moments of brilliance.
Its biggest sin is that it ...What a Surprise! - Splendid_Dragon
Every so often you come across a movie you've never heard of that blows you away. Slevin is one of those movies. A terrific cast, wonderful acting, and a plot that just won't let go of you...it grabs you, and then proceeds to manipulate you, startle you, and ...