Serpico (1973) Review

Serpico (1973)
Starring:- Al Pacino, John Randolph, Jack Kehoe
Directed by:- Sidney Lumet

A long time ago I gave up 'expecting' anything from films. All too often I would sit down to a supposedly excellent film, a classic even, and it would fail to deliver. Serpico doesn't fall into that bracket. I enter into films with an open, impartial mind, and thankfully Serpico delivered everything I hoped it would be.

Serpico is the true to life tale of Frank Serpico, a New York cop determined to expose corruption that is seemingly rife throughout the force. With few friends on the force, and unable to trust anybody, it becomes an almost impossible task. We see Serpico initially as a fresh faced young cop, eager to make a difference as he makes his way in his new job. As the job takes its toll, Serpico alters accordingly becoming aloof and hardened he uncovers the scale of the task facing him.

The plot is decent enough, and displays innovation. I may be right in saying that this may be one of the first films to start with a scene from the end, as we see a bloodied Serpico hauled into the hospital, unsure whether he will live or die. However, this film is not about the plotlines. It is purely about Pacino. He gives an absolute masterclass- a real treat. He becomes Serpico, mind, body and spirit. I can honestly say that I don't think that I have seen a more accomplished character development. Visually Pacino is completely transformed from effectively Michael Corleone, to a frustrated, battle-hardened, full-beard wearing vigilante style cop. Initially Serpico is free-wheeling, free-spirited young buck, who enjoys life outside the force. Serpico buys a sheepdog puppy, and makes friends outside of his usual social circles; displaying a sweet nature to his character. The more corruption he uncovers, the more hardened, and frustrated he becomes. Serpico becomes a hate figure in the force, constantly fearing for his life- director Lumet manages to build the paranoia to intolerable levels. Serpico scratches around for friends, finding few, and as a viewer I was living Serpico's pain- who could he trust? We are left wondering whether Serpico can trust anybody, and just how high does the corruption go?

Watch this film if only for Pacino playing a tough man who stands up for what is right- no matter what.

4 Stars