Hammerman Ikon

Hammerman Ikon Film Guide

The Insider
1999
****
Director: Michael Mann
Cast: Al Pacino, Russell Crowe, Christopher Plummer, Diane Venora

Russell Crowe gives one of his finest performances as a scientist whose decision to become a tobacco industry whistleblower ends up destroying his life. Al Pacino is also in fine form for a change as a TV producer who wants to break the story. Michael Mann's real-life drama is sharp and captivating, but also somewhat dry and academic. Adapted from the book The Man Who Knew Too Much by Marie Brenner.