The Clean Machine
The Clean Machine

The Clean Machine

1988Movie108 minEnglish

A new Premier is elected promising to clean up corruption. He sets up a taskforce headed by a traffic cop thinking he won’t get far. But Inspector Riordan opens up a can of worms and won’t let it go – all the way to the top.

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IMDb7.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes92%
Metacritic85/100
Google Users90%
Director: Michael MannGenres: Crime, Drama, Thriller

Plot Summary

A veteran detective, haunted by his past failures, goes undercover to dismantle a ruthless drug syndicate operating in Miami. As he infiltrates the organization, he becomes increasingly entangled with its dangerous members, blurring the lines between his undercover persona and his true identity. The investigation takes a perilous turn, forcing him to confront both the criminals and his own moral compromises.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, 'The Clean Machine' garnered significant critical acclaim for its gritty realism, complex characters, and intense atmosphere. Critics praised Michael Mann's meticulous direction and the powerhouse performances from its lead actors. The film was lauded for its unflinching portrayal of the drug trade and its psychological toll on those involved, becoming a landmark film in the crime genre.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its gripping narrative and authentic portrayal of law enforcement.
  • Al Pacino's performance as the conflicted detective was hailed as career-defining.
  • Lauded for its stylish direction and palpable tension throughout.

Google audience: Audiences overwhelmingly lauded 'The Clean Machine' for its intense action, compelling story, and the powerful performances, particularly from Al Pacino. Many viewers appreciated the film's realistic depiction of the challenges faced by undercover officers and the moral complexities of the crime world.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for 3 Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Al Pacino. Won a Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture – Drama.

Fun Fact

Director Michael Mann insisted on rigorous training for the cast to accurately portray police procedures and the physical demands of undercover work, with several actors undergoing extensive firearms and tactical training.

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