I honestly believe that it has been since 2006 since I saw a great mob film (Martin Scorsese's "The Departed), and probably even longer since I saw a truly great L.A. story ("L.A. Confidential" maybe?). Ruben Fleischer ("Zombieland") has added his entry into one of America's greatest genres, and it is fantastic! "Gangster Squad" is fast-paced, violent, and entertaining. It doesn't let up for one second, from its bloody opening to its climatic shoot-out. Will Beall's script, based on Paul Lieberman's book, is crisp with snappy dialogue and great moments of humor (mostly between Michael Pena and Robert Patrick). The ensemble cast is full of great actors giving good to great performances: Josh Brolin anchors the cast well, and Sean Penn is frightening as snarling mob boss Mickey Cohen. Ryan Gosling plays the young level headed cop with a grudge to perfection, and Emma Stone is wonderful as always. See this film. Seriously, it is a lot of fun.
Grade: B+
3D: N/A
Easter Egg: No
Starring: Josh Brolin, Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone
Director: Rueben Fleischer
Writer(s): Will Beale - Paul Lieberman (Book)
RT: 113 min
Rating: R for strong violence and language
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