Righteous Kill had the distinct advantage of pairing two of cinema’s greatest actors, Robert De Niro and Al Pacino, for their first on-screen collaboration since the climactic diner scene in Heat.
Unfortunately, the film, a conventional police procedural with a twist, failed to live up to its promise. Instead of a fresh and complex thriller, audiences were given a by-the-numbers serial killer story that felt more like a direct-to-video release than a major cinematic event.
The film’s plot centers on two veteran New York City detectives, Turk (De Niro) and Rooster (Pacino), who are investigating a series of murders of criminals. Each body is found with a poem that seems to justify the killing, leading them to believe they are searching for a vigilante serial killer.
As the case progresses, the investigation is documented through a series of video confessions, revealing a twisted tale of justice and revenge.
The plot is predictable, and the big reveal, while a centerpiece of the marketing, is telegraphed early on, leaving the audience with little to be surprised about.
Righteous Kill is a testament to the enduring appeal of these two actors, even when the material doesn’t quite match their talent.
The strong supporting cast includes Carla Gugino, John Leguizamo, 50 Cent, Donnie Wahlberg, Melissa Leo, and Sterling K. Brown.
However, even their combined efforts can’t save the film from its uninspired script and lackluster direction.
Brian Dennehy‘s turn as the captain is solid but doesn’t elevate the movie.
Al Pacino and Robert De Niro in Righteous Kill (Photo/Overture Films)
Reception for Righteous Kill
Righteous Kill grossed $16.3 million on its opening weekend, finishing third at the box office.
The film would gross $75.5 million worldwide.
For comparison, Heat grossed $187.4 million worldwide.
Peter Travers, in his review, said “Righteous Kill, a.k.a. The Al and Bob Show, is a cop flick with all the drama of Law & Order: AARP.”
Legacy
Ultimately, Righteous Kill is a missed opportunity and while it’s nice to see De Niro and Pacino together again, the film itself is forgettable. It’s a curious footnote in their respective filmographies, and its primary value is as a cinematic “what if” rather than a successful standalone thriller.
