Sea of Love, released in theaters on September 15, 1989, is a steamy and atmospheric thriller that proved to be a critical and commercial success, revitalizing Al Pacino‘s career and solidifying his status as a box-office star.
Directed by Harold Becker, the film masterfully combines elements of a police procedural with a dangerous psychological cat-and-mouse game, all wrapped in a sleek, noir-inflected package.
The film is a tense and sexually charged character study that keeps the audience guessing until the very end.
The film centers on Frank Keller (Pacino), a jaded New York City police detective who is disillusioned with his job and his life. He is investigating a series of murders of men who were all victims of a crime-of-passion, found dead in their beds with a singles magazine ad left behind.
Frank teams up with a detective from a different precinct, the methodical and by-the-book Sherman Touhey (John Goodman), to track down the killer.
Their investigation leads them to place their own ad in the magazine, leading Frank to meet Helen Cruger (Ellen Barkin), a beautiful, enigmatic, and fiercely independent woman who becomes the prime suspect. As Frank becomes more deeply involved with Helen, his professional instincts clash with his undeniable attraction to her, blurring the line between his investigation and his personal life.
Sea of Love is a brilliant showcase for Pacino, who delivers a charismatic and world-weary performance that anchors the entire film. He is perfectly matched by Barkin, whose portrayal of Helen is a captivating mix of vulnerability and danger.
The on-screen chemistry between Pacino and Barkin is palpable, making their scenes together the heart of the movie.
Goodman is excellent in a supporting role as the wise-cracking partner, providing a much-needed grounding presence.
Micheal Rooker, William Hickey, Richard Jenkins, Paul Calderon, Michael O’Neill and John Spencer round out the supporting cast.
Lorraine Bracco appeared as Keller’s ex-wife Denise, but the scenes were cut from the theatrical release print. However, they were added for several different versions of the edited versions that appeared on television.
Samuel L. Jackson also has a brief appearance in the film.
Al Pacino in Sea of Love (Photo/Universal Pictures)
Reception for Sea of Love
Sea of Love grossed $10.01 million on its opening weekend, finishing No. 1 at the box office, besting Uncle Buck, which earned $4.1 million on its fifth weekend to finish in second place.
The film would remain in the top 10 for nine consecutive weeks en route to grossing $110.9 million worldwide.
Roger Ebert gave the film three out of four stars in his review.
Legacy
Sea of Love’s legacy is defined by its strong performances and its seductive, suspenseful tone and the film remains a standout example of a late 20th-century noir, driven by a tight script, a sense of mounting dread, and an unforgettable pair of lead performances.
