Detailed Summary
Introduction and Setting
L.A. Confidential is a 1997 American neo-noir crime film directed by Curtis Hanson and based on James Ellroy’s 1990 novel of the same name. The film features an ensemble cast including Kevin Spacey, Russell Crowe, Guy Pearce, Kim Basinger, and Danny DeVito. Set in 1950s Los Angeles, the film delves into themes of corruption, crime, and moral ambiguity within the LAPD.
The Story Unfolds
The Setup
The film begins by introducing three LAPD officers with distinct personalities and methods:
- Ed Exley (Guy Pearce): An ambitious, by-the-book officer determined to rise through the ranks.
- Bud White (Russell Crowe): A tough, brutish cop with a personal vendetta against domestic abusers.
- Jack Vincennes (Kevin Spacey): A celebrity detective who works as a technical advisor for a TV show and enjoys the glamour and bribes that come with his position.
The three officers become embroiled in a complex web of corruption and deceit following a multiple homicide at the Nite Owl coffee shop.
The Climax and Resolution
The Investigation
The Nite Owl Massacre investigation reveals deep-seated corruption within the LAPD. As Exley, White, and Vincennes pursue the case, they uncover a plot involving heroin trafficking, prostitution, and high-level police corruption.
Key Discoveries
- Ed Exley uncovers connections between the Nite Owl murders and organized crime, leading him to question the integrity of his superiors.
- Bud White discovers a prostitution ring where women are surgically altered to resemble movie stars, managed by Pierce Patchett (David Strathairn). Lynn Bracken (Kim Basinger) is one of these women, and she becomes romantically involved with White.
- Jack Vincennes stumbles upon the connection between the LAPD and organized crime, eventually leading to his murder.
The Conclusion
The Final Confrontation
The climax occurs when Exley and White confront the true mastermind behind the corruption, Captain Dudley Smith (James Cromwell). In a tense and violent showdown, Smith is exposed and killed, but not before inflicting significant damage.
The Aftermath
The film ends with Exley being lauded as a hero for exposing the corruption, though the reality of his methods remains morally ambiguous. White, wounded, decides to leave the LAPD with Lynn Bracken. The conclusion highlights the complexity of justice and morality in a corrupt system.
Movie Ending
L.A. Confidential concludes with Exley accepting the complexities of moral compromise in pursuit of justice, and White finding a semblance of peace with Lynn. The film underscores the blurred lines between right and wrong within the law enforcement system.
Post-Credits Scene
There are no post-credits scenes in L.A. Confidential.
Type of Movie
L.A. Confidential is a neo-noir crime film that blends elements of mystery, drama, and thriller.
Cast
- Kevin Spacey as Jack Vincennes
- Russell Crowe as Bud White
- Guy Pearce as Ed Exley
- Kim Basinger as Lynn Bracken
- James Cromwell as Captain Dudley Smith
- Danny DeVito as Sid Hudgens
- David Strathairn as Pierce Patchett
Film Music and Composer
The film’s score was composed by Jerry Goldsmith, whose music enhances the film’s period atmosphere and emotional depth.
Filming Locations
L.A. Confidential was filmed in various locations around Los Angeles, California, capturing the city’s 1950s aesthetic.
Awards and Nominations
L.A. Confidential received numerous prestigious awards, including:
- Academy Awards: Won Best Supporting Actress (Kim Basinger) and Best Adapted Screenplay. Nominated for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Art Direction, Best Cinematography, Best Film Editing, Best Original Score, Best Sound Mixing.
- Golden Globe Awards: Nominated for Best Motion Picture – Drama, Best Director, Best Actor (Russell Crowe), Best Supporting Actor (Kevin Spacey), Best Supporting Actress (Kim Basinger), Best Screenplay.
- BAFTA Awards: Won Best Editing. Nominated for Best Film, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Cinematography, Best Production Design, Best Costume Design, Best Sound, Best Score.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Curtis Hanson and Brian Helgeland adapted James Ellroy’s complex novel into a cohesive screenplay, condensing its intricate plot while maintaining its core themes.
- The film’s production involved meticulous research to recreate 1950s Los Angeles, using period-appropriate sets, costumes, and props.
- The performances of Russell Crowe, Guy Pearce, and Kim Basinger were widely acclaimed, with Basinger winning several awards for her role.
Inspirations and References
The film is based on James Ellroy’s novel, which is part of his L.A. Quartet series exploring crime and corruption in mid-20th century Los Angeles. The narrative and style draw inspiration from classic film noir and detective fiction.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
The final cut of L.A. Confidential closely follows Hanson’s vision. Some deleted scenes and additional content are available in special editions and DVD releases, providing further context and character development.
Book Adaptations and Differences
The film adaptation condenses and simplifies the novel’s complex plot and numerous characters. Significant changes include the streamlining of subplots and the emphasis on the three main protagonists.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- The Nite Owl Massacre investigation.
- The interrogation scene where Exley coerces confessions from the suspects.
- Vincennes’ discovery of the corruption plot and subsequent murder.
- The final showdown at the Victory Motel.
Iconic Quotes
- “A hooker cut to look like Lana Turner is still a hooker.” – Jack Vincennes
- “Rollo Tomasi.” – Ed Exley
- “You’re the guy who gets away with it.” – Bud White
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The film’s meticulous attention to period detail, including costumes, set design, and props, immerses viewers in 1950s Los Angeles.
- The character of Rollo Tomasi serves as a metaphor for unsolved crimes and the idea of justice beyond reach.
Trivia
- The film’s budget was approximately $35 million, and it grossed over $126 million worldwide.
- L.A. Confidential is often cited as one of the greatest films of the 1990s and a modern classic of the noir genre.
- James Ellroy praised the film adaptation, calling it a “a superbly crafted vision of my book.”
Why Watch?
L.A. Confidential is a masterfully crafted film that offers a gripping narrative, complex characters, and a rich, atmospheric portrayal of 1950s Los Angeles. Its blend of crime, mystery, and moral ambiguity makes it a must-watch for fans of neo-noir and detective films.
Director’s Other Movies
Curtis Hanson also directed:
- Wonder Boys (2000)
- 8 Mile (2002)
- The River Wild (1994)
- In Her Shoes (2005)
- Too Big to Fail (2011)
Recommended Films for Fans
- Chinatown (1974)
- The Big Sleep (1946)
- Mulholland Drive (2001)
- The Maltese Falcon (1941)
- The Black Dahlia (2006)
