Few crime dramas have left as lasting an impression as The Untouchables (1987). Directed by Brian De Palma and written by legendary playwright David Mamet, this film remains one of the most iconic gangster movies of the 1980s. Set in Prohibition-era Chicago, The Untouchables blends gripping storytelling, standout performances, and unforgettable cinematography into a cinematic masterpiece.
The Untouchables follows federal agent Eliot Ness (Kevin Costner) as he assembles a small, incorruptible team to take down the notorious gangster Al Capone, portrayed with chilling charisma by Robert De Niro. Frustrated by widespread corruption within law enforcement, Ness teams up with streetwise Irish cop Jimmy Malone (Sean Connery), accountant Oscar Wallace (Charles Martin Smith), and rookie George Stone (Andy Garcia). Together, this group — nicknamed The Untouchables — takes on Capone’s ruthless empire in a battle of wits, bullets, and willpower.
One of the film’s brightest highlights is Sean Connery’s portrayal of Malone. His performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, delivering both gravitas and dry humor to the gritty narrative. Connery’s character acts as Ness's mentor, guiding him through the murky moral landscape of crime-fighting in a city where everyone seems to have a price.
Brian De Palma’s direction is bold and stylish, with several standout sequences — most notably the climactic Union Station staircase shootout, inspired by the classic film Battleship Potemkin. De Palma expertly balances tense dialogue scenes with explosive action, all underscored by Ennio Morricone’s unforgettable score.
While The Untouchables takes creative liberties with historical facts, it captures the spirit of the era with detailed production design, authentic costumes, and a script that never shies away from the brutal realities of Prohibition-era crime. The film elevates real-life events into operatic spectacle without losing its human core.
Nearly four decades after its release, The Untouchables remains a touchstone in the gangster genre. It’s celebrated for its memorable characters, quotable lines, and relentless pacing. The film continues to inspire both audiences and filmmakers alike, proving that the battle between good and evil can still captivate when told with style and heart.
