Movie spotlight
The St. Valentine's Day Massacre
Chicago February 14th 1929. Al Capone finally establishes himself as the city's boss of organised crime. In a north-side garage his hoods, dressed as policemen, surprise and mow down with machine-guns the key members of Bugs Moran's rival gang. The film traces the history of the incident, and the lives affected and in some cases ended by it.
Insights
Plot Summary
This graphic depiction of the infamous 1929 Chicago mob hit follows the escalating rivalry between Al Capone's gang and Bugs Moran's North Side Irish mob. The film meticulously reconstructs the events leading up to and including the brutal massacre, highlighting the ruthless power struggles and violence that defined the Prohibition era. It portrays the intricate planning and cold-blooded execution of the murders, aiming for historical accuracy in its portrayal of the notorious event.
Critical Reception
Roger Corman's 'The St. Valentine's Day Massacre' was met with a mixed but generally favorable reception, appreciated for its historical depiction and unflinching look at gangland violence. Critics often highlighted Corman's ability to craft a compelling narrative with a limited budget, while some found the violence gratuitous. Audiences were drawn to the true-crime aspect and the dramatic reenactment of a significant historical event.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its historical accuracy and unflinching depiction of violence.
Roger Corman's direction effectively captures the grim atmosphere of the Prohibition era.
Some found the level of violence excessive, even for the subject matter.
Google audience: Google users generally appreciate the film's historical portrayal and the tension it builds, though some viewers find the violence to be quite graphic.
Fun Fact
Although the film is titled 'The St. Valentine's Day Massacre,' the actual massacre event is depicted in the final 10 minutes of the movie.
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