The Iceman
The Iceman

The Iceman

2012Movie105 minEnglish

The true story of Richard Kuklinski, the notorious contract killer and family man.

Read Reviews

Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes64%
Metacritic60/100
Google Users73%
Director: Ariel VromenGenres: Biography, Crime, Drama, Thriller

Plot Summary

Based on a true story, 'The Iceman' follows the life of Richard Kuklinski, a cold-blooded hitman who operated for decades in the New York metropolitan area. Juggling his violent profession with his seemingly normal family life, Kuklinski became one of the most notorious and prolific contract killers in history. The film chronicles his rise through the criminal underworld, his complex relationships, and the eventual investigation that led to his downfall.

Critical Reception

Critics were generally divided on 'The Iceman,' with many praising Michael Shannon's intense performance as Richard Kuklinski and the film's gritty atmosphere. However, some found the narrative to be somewhat formulaic and underdeveloped, particularly in its exploration of Kuklinski's personal life. Despite these reservations, the film was largely seen as a solid crime thriller with a compelling central performance.

What Reviewers Say

  • Michael Shannon delivers a chilling and captivating performance as the notorious hitman.
  • The film effectively captures the brutal and bleak atmosphere of Kuklinski's world.
  • While competent, the narrative occasionally falters, feeling somewhat predictable at times.

Google audience: Google users generally appreciated the film's suspenseful nature and Michael Shannon's powerful portrayal of the titular character, with many finding it a gripping and well-executed crime drama.

Fun Fact

Michael Shannon reportedly gained 20 pounds to play the role of Richard Kuklinski, and he underwent extensive research into the killer's life, including studying his mannerisms and psychological profile.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review