The Untouchable Family
The Untouchable Family

Movie spotlight

The Untouchable Family

1988
Movie
100 min
English

Ma Barker and sons Mad Max, Machinegun Nonong and Pretty Boy Fredo want to be the number one criminal family in the land. They think this is going to be their ticket to fame and fortune. But plans go awry when Pretty Boy falls in love with Sheila, a pretty young lounge singer/owner. It turns out that she is the grandaughter of Don Vito , the family's main competitor. Don Vito learns of the relationship and decides to hit two birds with one stone. He sets up Ma Barker and her sons as the fall guys of their criminal operations hoping Pretty Boy will voluntarily leave his precious grandchild alone. But Pretty Boy learns of the plot against his family. His only hope is to convince Shiela of her grandfather's evil ways and help her get him arrested.

Insights

IMDb7.9/10
Rotten Tomatoes82%
Metacritic71/100
Google Users89%
Director: Brian De PalmaGenres: Crime, Drama, Gangster

Plot Summary

In Prohibition-era Chicago, Federal Agent Eliot Ness assembles a small, incorruptible team to bring down Al Capone's crime empire. Facing corruption and violence at every turn, Ness and his men wage a relentless war against the mob boss, battling not only Capone's enforcers but also the systemic decay that threatens to engulf the city. Their fight for justice becomes a personal crusade against the pervasive influence of organized crime.

Critical Reception

The Untouchables was met with largely positive reviews from critics, who praised its stylish direction, strong performances, and classic gangster film feel. Audiences also responded well to its heroic narrative and memorable characters, making it a commercial success and a beloved film of the genre.

What Reviewers Say

  • Visually striking and impeccably acted, capturing the essence of a classic crime drama.

  • A thrilling and suspenseful portrayal of law versus lawlessness, elevated by strong performances.

  • Successfully blends historical drama with stylized action, making for an engaging cinematic experience.

Google audience: Viewers frequently praise the film's intense atmosphere, the iconic performances, particularly Sean Connery's Oscar-winning role, and the faithful yet thrilling depiction of the era. Some viewers find the plot a bit straightforward, but the overall sentiment is highly positive, highlighting its enduring appeal as a classic gangster film.

Awards & Accolades

Won 1 Academy Award (Sean Connery for Best Supporting Actor), nominated for 3 others. Nominated for 1 Golden Globe (Best Supporting Actor for Sean Connery).

Fun Fact

Sean Connery's iconic performance as Jim Malone was heavily influenced by his portrayal of Willie Stokes in the 1957 film 'The Longest Day'.

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