The First Deadly Sin
The First Deadly Sin

Movie spotlight

The First Deadly Sin

1980
Movie
112 min
English

A serial killer is stalking New York. Inspector Edward X. Delaney is an NYPD detective, nearing retirement, who is trying to put together the pieces of the case. Are the victims somehow linked? What does the brutal method of death signify?

Insights

IMDb6.1/10
Director: Brian G. HuttonGenres: Crime, Drama, Thriller

Plot Summary

A veteran NYPD detective, nearing retirement, becomes obsessed with catching a serial killer targeting women. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he finds his own personal life unraveling due to the immense pressure and the moral compromises he's forced to make. The killer's motives remain elusive, leading the detective on a perilous path that blurs the lines between justice and obsession.

Critical Reception

While Frank Sinatra's performance was praised, 'The First Deadly Sin' received mixed reviews from critics, with many finding the plot too conventional and the pacing sluggish. Audience reception was lukewarm, likely due to its dark themes and deviation from Sinatra's more musical or lighthearted roles.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praises Frank Sinatra's committed, gritty performance in a departure from his usual persona.

  • Criticized for its slow pace and predictable crime thriller elements.

  • Noted for its bleak atmosphere and exploration of a detective's psychological toll.

Google audience: Information not available.

Fun Fact

This film marked one of Frank Sinatra's final dramatic film roles, and he famously turned down a salary, choosing instead to work for a percentage of the profits, which ultimately did not materialize due to the film's modest box office performance.

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