The classic
rise-and-fall gangster narrative paired with the uniquely secretive serial
killer aspect in the storyline makes for an original crime film in The Iceman. It is the type of film which
takes us down many familiar paths, so it is the individual blend of the
expected which makes up a majority of the entertainment. Even when we can guess
where the storyline is heading, this is a film rich enough in production design
and compelling acting to make up for some of the safer filmmaking decisions and
the limitations of being tethered to a true story.
Based on the
notorious killing of a mob-employed contract killer known for freezing bodies
to dispose of at a later date, The Iceman is a film carried by its lead actor,
Michael Shannon. Shannon has shown us the
eerie side of this role in previous performances, but adds an extra element of
machismo as Richard Kuklinski. Some of the actual facts behind this case are
debatable, with some of the 100-some murders he claimed to have performed
actually occurring when he was already behind bars. This film isn’t dedicated
to precise facts, but instead gives us the portrait of a man disturbed and
proud enough to embellish his kill-count.
There is a
typical rise-and-fall storyline at play here, but it becomes more untraditional
with the understanding that monetary gain seems to mean less to Kuklinski than
fear and respect. The high point in his rise in
success is due to a partnership he makes with a freelance contractor riding
around in an ice cream truck, played by Chris Evans. The weaker aspects of the
story come with the family life aspects of Kuklinski.
Where this film varies from most
gangster tales is the fact that Kuklinski’s family was oblivious to his actual
profession, believing him to be nothing more than an average American business
man. Through his marriage with his wife (Winona Ryder) and the raising of his
children, somehow Kuklinski is able to hide his true nature as a ruthless
killer. As compelling as this idea is, onscreen it does not play out nearly as
well. The film has more to gain from the relationship Kuklinski has with his
victims than it does his family life. Ray Liotta’s brief appearance adds
much-needed heft to the criminal underworld aspect of the film, which would be
otherwise off-balanced by focus on familial secrets.
The Blu-ray includes a making-of
featurette, as well as some behind-the-scenes footage.
Entertainment Value:
7.5/10
Quality of
Filmmaking: 7.5/10
Historical
Significance: 7/10
Disc Features: 5/10
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