Boondock Saints (1999) / Action-Thriller

MPAA Rated: R for strong language, strong violence and sexual content
Running Time: 110 min.

Cast: Willem Dafoe, Sean Patrick Flanery, Norman Reedus, David Della Rocco, Billy Connolly, David Ferry, Brian Mahoney, Bob Marley
Director: Troy Duffy
Screenplay: Troy Duffy
Reviw published December 17, 1999

In Boston, two brothers of Irish descent, Connor (Flanery, Suicide Kings) and Murphy (Reedus, Blade II), see themselves as the "saints" meant to rid the town of evildoers once they off some Russian hoods.  The people of the city aren't all that dismayed at seeing them rid the city of crime, while the cops who are on their trail, headed by eccentric FBI agent Smecker (Dafoe, Spider-Man), are conflicted in wanting to nab the vigilantes or to side with them.

The Boondock Saints is yet another recent entry in the Pulp Fiction clones, where huge doses of violence are mixed in with irreverently funny scenes of cleverness that entertain even if they are basically needless to the overall plot.  If you aren't squeamish about some generous portions of gratuitous violence, and are willing to swallow the over-the-top bravado, The Boondock Saints will deliver entertainment value, albeit mostly in the form of humor and chutzpah. Stylish touches by first-time writer-director Duffy, and funny grandiose performances by the actors all work together to form an ambitious and mostly successful crime vehicle. While it isn't for everyone, fans of off-beat, violent crime-operas should find lots to like. 

Qwipster's rating:

© 1999 Vince Leo