Detailed Summary
Introduction and Setting
The Departed is a crime thriller directed by Martin Scorsese, based on the 2002 Hong Kong film Infernal Affairs. The film explores themes of identity, loyalty, and deception in the backdrop of Boston’s criminal underworld and law enforcement.
The Dual Lives of Billy Costigan and Colin Sullivan
The story follows two men living parallel lives. Billy Costigan (Leonardo DiCaprio) is a young cop from a family with criminal ties, recruited by Captain Queenan (Martin Sheen) and Sergeant Dignam (Mark Wahlberg) to go undercover and infiltrate the organization of notorious mob boss Frank Costello (Jack Nicholson). Meanwhile, Colin Sullivan (Matt Damon) is a rising star within the Massachusetts State Police who, unbeknownst to his colleagues, is a mole working for Costello.
Infiltration and Deception
Billy successfully infiltrates Costello’s crew, gaining his trust and becoming deeply embedded in the criminal enterprise. Simultaneously, Sullivan uses his position within the police force to keep Costello informed about the department’s activities, effectively sabotaging their efforts to bring him down. The tension mounts as both men try to maintain their cover while working to uncover the identity of the other’s mole.
The Cat-and-Mouse Game
As Costigan and Sullivan gather information about each other’s operations, their lives become increasingly perilous. Costigan manages to gather evidence of Costello’s crimes, while Sullivan works to eliminate any threats to his position within both the police and Costello’s organization. The cat-and-mouse game intensifies, leading to a series of violent confrontations and betrayals.
The Climactic Confrontation
The tension culminates in a bloody showdown in a vacant building where Costello’s operations are headquartered. Costigan successfully contacts Sullivan, unaware of his true allegiance, and they meet at the building. A series of double-crosses ensue, resulting in the deaths of several key characters, including Costello, who is betrayed by Sullivan to protect his own identity and future.
The Tragic Ending
In the film’s final act, Costigan discovers Sullivan’s true identity as Costello’s mole. He lures Sullivan to the building where Queenan was killed, planning to arrest him. However, the encounter ends in tragedy when Trooper Barrigan (James Badge Dale), another mole working for Costello, kills Costigan. Sullivan then kills Barrigan to eliminate witnesses and secure his position. Sullivan’s deceitful life seems secured until the final scene, where Sergeant Dignam, aware of Sullivan’s betrayal, executes him in his apartment, delivering poetic justice.
Movie Ending
The film ends with Sullivan’s death, leaving a strong commentary on the cycle of violence and corruption. The final shot of a rat crawling on Sullivan’s balcony railing underscores the pervasive nature of betrayal and deceit.
Post-Credits Scene
There are no post-credits scenes in The Departed.
Type of Movie
The Departed is a crime thriller that combines elements of drama, action, and suspense. It explores themes of loyalty, identity, and the moral ambiguities within law enforcement and organized crime.
Cast
- Leonardo DiCaprio as Billy Costigan
- Matt Damon as Colin Sullivan
- Jack Nicholson as Frank Costello
- Mark Wahlberg as Sergeant Sean Dignam
- Martin Sheen as Captain Oliver Queenan
- Vera Farmiga as Dr. Madolyn Madden
- Alec Baldwin as Captain George Ellerby
Film Music and Composer
The film features a score composed by Howard Shore and includes a variety of rock and classical music, notably the use of the Dropkick Murphys’ “I’m Shipping Up to Boston,” which became iconic.
Filming Locations
- Boston, Massachusetts: Various real locations around Boston were used to capture the authentic atmosphere of the city.
- New York City: Some interior scenes were shot in New York studios.
Awards and Nominations
The Departed received numerous prestigious awards, including:
- Academy Awards: Best Picture, Best Director (Martin Scorsese), Best Adapted Screenplay (William Monahan), Best Film Editing
- Golden Globes: Best Director (Martin Scorsese)
- BAFTA Awards: Best Director (Martin Scorsese), Best Adapted Screenplay
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Martin Scorsese was initially reluctant to remake Infernal Affairs, but he was drawn to the project’s potential to explore themes of identity and morality.
- Jack Nicholson improvised many of his scenes, adding depth and unpredictability to his character, Frank Costello.
- The film’s gritty realism was enhanced by Scorsese’s decision to shoot on location in Boston and employ a documentary-style approach to the cinematography.
Inspirations and References
The film is a remake of the 2002 Hong Kong film Infernal Affairs and incorporates elements of true crime, particularly the life of notorious Boston mobster Whitey Bulger, who inspired the character of Frank Costello.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
While the final cut closely follows Scorsese’s vision, some deleted scenes provide additional context and character development. These scenes can be found in special editions and DVD releases.
Book Adaptations and Differences
The film’s screenplay was adapted into a novel by William Monahan, capturing the essence of the story while providing additional insights into the characters’ thoughts and motivations.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- The opening monologue by Frank Costello.
- The tension-filled scene in the abandoned building where Costello meets his end.
- The dramatic rooftop confrontation between Costigan and Sullivan.
- The shocking final sequence in Sullivan’s apartment.
Iconic Quotes
- “When I was your age, they would say you could become cops or criminals. What I’m saying is this: When you’re facing a loaded gun, what’s the difference?” – Frank Costello
- “I don’t want to be a product of my environment. I want my environment to be a product of me.” – Frank Costello
- “I’m the guy who does his job. You must be the other guy.” – Sergeant Dignam
- “You’re no fucking cop!” – Billy Costigan
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The use of the letter “X” in the background of several scenes is a nod to the 1932 film Scarface, indicating impending doom for characters.
- The film’s careful attention to Boston’s local culture and accents adds authenticity to the setting and characters.
Trivia
- The film’s budget was around $90 million, and it grossed over $290 million worldwide.
- Martin Scorsese won his first Oscar for Best Director with The Departed after several previous nominations.
- The film was a critical and commercial success, revitalizing interest in the crime thriller genre.
Why Watch?
The Departed is a masterful blend of intense action, intricate plotting, and deep character studies. Its exploration of duality, morality, and identity, combined with stellar performances and expert direction by Martin Scorsese, make it a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and thrillers.
Director’s Other Movies
Martin Scorsese also directed:
Recommended Films for Fans
We’d say that The Departed is still one of the best films to come out of modern cinema. It’s got a gripping story, some complex characters, and a great look at the fine line between good and evil.
