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Miller's Crossing

Play trailer Poster for Miller's Crossing R 1990 1h 54m Crime Drama Play Trailer Watchlist
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93% Tomatometer 71 Reviews 90% Popcornmeter 50,000+ Ratings
When the Italian Mafia threatens to kill a crooked bookie (John Turturro), Irish mob boss Leo O'Bannon (Albert Finney) refuses to allow it, chiefly because he's dating the bookie's sister, crafty gun moll Verna Bernbaum (Marcia Gay Harden). Leo's right-hand man, Tom Reagan (Gabriel Byrne), is also seeing Verna on the sly, and when he's found out is obliged to switch sides, going to work for the Italian mob amidst a dramatically escalating gang war over liquor distribution.
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Miller's Crossing

Miller's Crossing

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Critics Consensus

Though possibly more notable for its distinctive style than an airtight story, this Coen brothers take on the classic gangster flick features sharp dialogue, impressive cinematography, and a typically quirky cast of characters.

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Critics Reviews

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Steve Murray Atlanta Journal-Constitution Sep 23
Highlights include a deftly choreographed attempted hit and Mr. Turturro's reptilian performance. Go to Full Review
Budd Wilkins Slant Magazine 03/08/2022
Bullet-riddled and crackling with quotable dialogue, Millers Crossing gets a handsome new 2K transfer and a handful of insightful extras. Go to Full Review
Variety Staff Variety 11/06/2007
Substance is here in spades, along with the twisted, brilliantly controlled style on which filmmakers Joel and Ethan Coen made a name. Go to Full Review
Don Shanahan Every Movie Has a Lesson Jul 20
4/5
Who ends up still breathing and who ends up dead on the streets or out in the woods at the titular "Miller's Crossing" is the fun of the film. Go to Full Review
Alan Jones Radio Times 08/17/2024
5/5
Byrne is simply outstanding as the cool, calculating catalyst around whom the whole vivid spectacle revolves. Go to Full Review
Brian D. Johnson Maclean's Magazine 10/18/2023
The violence, like the rest of Miller's Crossing, is poetically staged, and strangely tasteful. But the movie's real firepower is the staccato slang of its script. Go to Full Review
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Audience Reviews

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BJ M @HotMovieStar Nov 24 The story was not tight - even confusing at times. Really nothing redeeming about this one. See more Rohan H Oct 31 Miller’s Crossing (1990) is a stunning achievement in filmmaking — a beautifully crafted gangster drama that blends sharp dialogue, complex characters, and breathtaking visuals into one of the most sophisticated crime stories ever told. Written and directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, the film captures the essence of classic film noir while adding the Coens’ signature wit, irony, and emotional depth. Set during the Prohibition era, the story follows Tom Reagan (Gabriel Byrne), the clever and enigmatic right-hand man to an Irish mob boss. As rival gangs battle for control of the city, Tom becomes entangled in a web of loyalty, betrayal, and moral ambiguity. What unfolds is a masterclass in storytelling — a layered, unpredictable tale of politics, power, and the cost of integrity. Gabriel Byrne delivers a quietly powerful performance, portraying Tom as a man of intellect and restraint in a violent, unpredictable world. His subtle expressions and sharp dialogue make him a fascinating and mysterious protagonist. The supporting cast is equally strong — Albert Finney brings charm and ferocity to his role as mob boss Leo, while John Turturro gives an unforgettable performance as Bernie Bernbaum, a desperate man caught in the crossfire of power and deceit. Visually, Miller’s Crossing is a masterpiece. Cinematographer Barry Sonnenfeld captures the era with elegance and precision — from smoky backrooms and shadowy alleyways to the haunting forest sequences that give the film its title. Every frame feels deliberate, rich with texture and atmosphere. The musical score by Carter Burwell perfectly complements the tone, balancing melancholy with grandeur. What makes Miller’s Crossing truly exceptional is its intelligence. Beneath the gunfights and mob politics lies a meditation on loyalty, morality, and the loneliness of making impossible choices. It’s not just a gangster film — it’s a philosophical exploration of human weakness and survival. See more David F Oct 20 Not the Coen brothers’ best, but not their worst either. See more andras gaspar p Oct 15 My favourite movie. See more Robert M Sep 25 If you've never seen Miller's Crossing, you're in for a treat. This Coen brothers masterpiece is a captivating and complex gangster film that deserves a place among the best of the genre. What truly sets it apart is its unique blend of wit, style, and a surprisingly emotional core. The dialogue is razor-sharp, with every line dripping with the Coens' signature dark humor and poetic rhythm. Tom Reagan, played with a weary brilliance by Gabriel Byrne, is a protagonist unlike any other. He's not a hero, but his quiet struggle with loyalty and betrayal is deeply compelling. The supporting cast, especially John Turturro as the sniveling Bernie Bernbaum and Albert Finney as the formidable Leo O'Bannion, are absolutely fantastic, delivering performances that are both memorable and nuanced. ​But it's the film's visual style that really lingers. The autumn setting, with its falling leaves and muted colors, creates an atmosphere of melancholy and foreboding. The fedoras, trench coats, and classic cars transport you directly to the Prohibition era, making the world feel tangible and authentic. The score, by the legendary Carter Burwell, is a haunting and beautiful piece of music that perfectly complements the film's somber tone. Miller's Crossing is a film that rewards multiple viewings. You'll catch new details in the intricate plot, and appreciate the subtle character work more each time. It’s a smart, stylish, and endlessly rewarding movie that I highly recommend to anyone who loves a great story well told. See more Sep 20 Good movie, surprised I've not seen it until now. Seems to never be talked about. Film Noir vibes from the start would probably look great in Black and White. Great cast with good performances and story, definitely worth a watch. Possibly my favourite Coen Brothers Film. See more Read all reviews
Miller's Crossing

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Movie Info

Synopsis When the Italian Mafia threatens to kill a crooked bookie (John Turturro), Irish mob boss Leo O'Bannon (Albert Finney) refuses to allow it, chiefly because he's dating the bookie's sister, crafty gun moll Verna Bernbaum (Marcia Gay Harden). Leo's right-hand man, Tom Reagan (Gabriel Byrne), is also seeing Verna on the sly, and when he's found out is obliged to switch sides, going to work for the Italian mob amidst a dramatically escalating gang war over liquor distribution.
Director
Joel Coen, Ethan Coen
Producer
Ethan Coen, Joel Coen
Screenwriter
Joel Coen, Ethan Coen
Distributor
Fox, 20th Century Fox
Production Co
20th Century Fox, Circle Films, Inc.
Rating
R
Genre
Crime, Drama
Original Language
English
Release Date (Theaters)
Sep 21, 1990, Original
Release Date (Streaming)
Mar 1, 2013
Box Office (Gross USA)
$4.7M
Runtime
1h 54m
Sound Mix
Surround, Dolby SR
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