Hammerman Ikon

Hammerman Ikon Film Guide

Before the Devil Knows You're Dead
2007
****½
Director: Sidney Lumet
Cast: Philip Seymour Hoffman, Ethan Hawke, Marisa Tomei, Albert Finney, Rosemary Harris

A gripping morality drama about two brothers who are both in dire financial straits. As a quick fix, they decide to rob their parents' jewellery store, but their victimless crime goes horribly wrong. The excellent script by first-time writer Kelly Masterson unfolds in a non-linear order, and veteran director Lumet shows that he still has what it takes to direct a riveting thriller. Only the ending feels a bit overdramatic.