Few films capture the intensity of crime, corruption, and justice as powerfully as The Untouchables (1987). Directed by Brian De Palma and written by David Mamet, this gritty crime thriller brings to life the battle between law enforcement and organized crime during Prohibition-era Chicago.
Starring Kevin Costner, Sean Connery, Robert De Niro, Andy García, and Charles Martin Smith, the film follows Eliot Ness and his team of incorruptible lawmen as they take on Al Capone’s criminal empire. With its stylized action, gripping performances, and unforgettable moments, The Untouchables remains one of Hollywood’s most celebrated crime dramas, earning critical acclaim and box office success.
Historical Context and Inspiration
Set in 1930s Chicago, the film is loosely based on real events, inspired by Eliot Ness’s memoir, The Untouchables (1957). During Prohibition, the sale and distribution of alcohol were illegal, but crime syndicates—most notably Al Capone’s empire—thrived by smuggling liquor, bribing officials, and eliminating rivals.
Eliot Ness, a determined Treasury agent, was tasked with bringing down Capone, but corruption ran deep within the Chicago Police Department and government. Ness assembled a team of honest lawmen, famously dubbed “The Untouchables” because they could not be bribed or intimidated.
While the film takes creative liberties, it captures the essence of the battle between law and crime, portraying the sacrifices, dangers, and moral dilemmas faced by those who dared to challenge Capone’s reign.
Plot Overview
In 1930s Chicago, Al Capone (Robert De Niro) controls the city through illegal liquor sales, bribery, and ruthless violence. Determined to bring him down, Treasury agent Eliot Ness (Kevin Costner) assembles a team of honest lawmen, including:
- Jim Malone (Sean Connery) – A veteran Irish-American cop who teaches Ness how to fight crime “the Chicago way.”
- George Stone (Andy García) – A sharpshooter and police recruit with unwavering integrity.
- Oscar Wallace (Charles Martin Smith) – A government accountant who discovers Capone’s financial weaknesses.
As Ness and his team begin their crusade against Capone, they face corrupt officials, brutal assassinations, and moral dilemmas. The stakes rise when they discover that Capone’s greatest weakness is his tax records, leading to a high-risk operation to expose his financial crimes.
The film builds toward a tense and action-packed climax, where Ness and his men must outmaneuver Capone’s enforcers, culminating in one of cinema’s most iconic courtroom showdowns.
Themes and Symbolism
🔹 Justice vs. Corruption – The film explores the difficulty of enforcing the law in a city controlled by crime. 🔹 Loyalty and Sacrifice – Ness and his team risk their lives and reputations to uphold justice. 🔹 The Power of Fear – Capone’s reign thrives on intimidation, forcing Ness to fight fire with fire. 🔹 The Cost of Integrity – The Untouchables must choose between morality and survival, making difficult ethical decisions.
Why The Untouchables Stands Out
🔥 Legendary Performances – Sean Connery’s portrayal of Jim Malone won him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. 🔥 Stylish Cinematic Execution – Brian De Palma’s direction delivers tense action sequences and gripping drama. 🔥 Historical Significance – The film is loosely based on real events, offering a dramatic retelling of Eliot Ness’s battle against Capone. 🔥 Iconic Scenes – From the train station shootout to the baseball bat execution, the film is filled with memorable moments.
Reception and Legacy
Premiering on June 3, 1987, The Untouchables was met with critical and commercial success, grossing $106.2 million worldwide. It remains a defining crime thriller, influencing modern gangster films and law enforcement dramas.
Sean Connery’s performance as Jim Malone earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, while the film’s cinematography, music, and screenplay received widespread praise.
Where to Watch
Find The Untouchables on IMDb or Wikipedia. Watch the official trailer for a glimpse of its intense action and gripping storytelling.