DICK TRACY

Good cheese movie with Madonna making an appearance Read more

Dick Tracy is a visual masterpiece that stands as one of the most unique comic book adaptations ever created. Director Warren Beatty brilliantly captures the essence of a printed comic strip by strictly limiting the film’s color palette to seven vibrant, primary colors. This artistic choice gives the entire production a surreal, "live-action cartoon" aesthetic that is both striking and memorable. The film truly shines in its technical achievements, particularly its Oscar-winning makeup and production design. These elements transform an all-star cast—including Al Pacino and Dustin Hoffman—into exaggerated, prosthetic-heavy villains that appear as though they have stepped directly off the comic book page. Al Pacino’s performance as Big Boy Caprice is a standout, showcasing his ability to deliver "heavyweight hilarity" that captivates the audience. His portrayal is perfectly complemented by Madonna’s sultry performance, which adds depth and allure to the character of Breathless Mahoney. The film is further enriched by a memorable soundtrack penned by Stephen Sondheim, enhancing the overall experience with its catchy and thematic musical numbers. While the plot adheres to a traditional noir-lite formula, it is the immersive world-building and sheer artistic ambition that elevate Dick Tracy into an enduring piece of cinematic escapism. The film invites viewers into its vibrant universe, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination. Conclusion: In summary, Dick Tracy is a must-watch for fans of comic book adaptations and those who appreciate innovative visual storytelling. Its distinctive style, combined with memorable performances and artistic ambition, solidifies its place as a classic in the realm of cinema. Read more

When I first found out that this movie was finally on DVD I knew I had to go get it. "Dick Tracy" is a first rate action comedy classic with an all star cast that brings comic book characters to life in this entertaining spectacle that's fun for the entire family. As an active movie goer myself, after seeing it for the first time as a kid with my mom and my cousin it's still a joy to watch even after all these years. Looking back on that fun time in my life I was a big fan of the "Dick Tracy" franchise; so much so that I even got some of the action figures like "Dick Tracy" his partner Sam Catch Em' and of course Big Boy and one of his gangsters. And who can forget the Nintendo game and the Loony Toonish cartoon that followed the release of the live action film. Those were the days. The film takes place in the long and forgotten era of the 1930's where sleek long hooded antic cars, extravagant suits and lavish party dresses were the exception and the outlawed necessity of the Tommy gun set against the backdrop of crime ridden streets was the rule of a menacing criminal element. The story follows the tense and sometimes romantic exploits of its hero, top cop detective Dick Tracy as he struggles to rid the city he has vowed to protect from the vice like grip of terror orchestrated by a belligerent and cunning mob boss known throughout the city as, "Big Boy" as he and his thugs launch a crime wave of racketeering, intimidation and murder. When the call comes over his wrist watch radio Detective Tracy is always on hand to answer it no matter where he is or what he's caught up in the middle of. It doesn't matter whether he's at the Opera or having a touching conversation with his love interest when duty calls Dick has to go. Actor and Director Warren Beatty plays the title roll opposite of Al Pacino who plays his arch nemesis, "Big Boy". Both deliver powerhouse performances in this movie, everyone else is also perfectly cast for their unique rolls as their characters begin to take on personalities of their own. Another unique character in this film is one that takes on a double roll throughout the story, "Breathless Mahoney" played by Madonna is a charming fire cracker of a character who often tries to manipulate Tracy during his investigation, covers Big Boy as the lead singer at a nightclub that his gang has taken over and shadows sinister criminal activities as her alter ego the mysterious "Blank" a trench coat and top hat dark figure that hides in the back alleys and dark corners lying in wait to spring a surprise attack that leaves those she encounters stumped as to the lone figure's existence. I agree with what the previous reviewer posted about the film. This film was made for DVD simply because of the great sound that the stereo produces during some of the more action packed sequences in the movie such as, shoot outs, drive by shootings and a car bombing. In all, this film has something for everybody. A great storyline, character dialogue and development along with a good film score and soundtrack. For those who might worry about what their kids might get out of this film, this isn't your typical cop drama as opposed to some of the more violent films that have preceded it. There's very little in the way of foul language, graphic violence or censored sex. If anything its one of the more tame cop movies that's actually come out over the years and it makes for a great flick for the whole family to sit down and enjoy. As far as the DVD itself, I would have liked to have seen some behind the scenes features and cast interviews because it's always interesting to see how something that's now a classic got put together in the first place. For the critics I'll give this film a 9/10 but definitely worth the time to watch. Read more

Great comic book action movie from Disney. It’s as good as Batman 1989 and Darkman 1990 and has the same music composer Danny elfman. I used to love seeing this movie on Wpix 11 when it was the WB11 and tbs when it was the superstation back in the 1990s. Read more