Terry Noonan returns home to New York's Hells Kitchen after a ten year absence. He soon hooks up with childhood pal Jackie who is involved in the Irish mob run by his brother Frankie. Terry also rekindles an old flame with Jackie's sister Kathleen. Soon, however, Terry is torn between his loyalty to his friends and his loyalties to others.
Penn's affecting performance, a strong and silent struggle with his warring emotions, is hard pressed to offset Oldman's shrill shenanigans.
– Rita Kempley,
Washington Post,
1 Jan 2000
fresh:
Mr. Oldman gives an electrifying performance that both establishes a tragic, terrifying character and explains why that character's world is such a perilous place.
– Janet Maslin,
New York Times,
20 May 2003
fresh:
A hugely impressive piece of work for a young director previously known for his documentary U2 Rattle and Hum.
– Derek Adams,
Time Out,
9 Feb 2006
fresh:
A handsomely produced, mostly riveting, but ultimately overlong and overindulgent gangster picture.
– Variety Staff,
Variety,
26 Mar 2009
rotten:
Every indulgence, including a two hour and 14 minute running time, is on display.