Harvey Kietel snorts and boozes his way through the titular role in this corrupt cop drama and thanks to the power of the star, watching him makes for compelling viewing. As a film, BAD LIEUTENANT is Abel Ferrera's exploration of Catholic angst, beginning with a typical DIRTY HARRY-type vibe but eventually turning into something completely different by the end.
Along the way there's plenty of explicit drug abuse and the kind of grittiness that Scorcese did so well back in the 1970s. Kietel is on superb form, and watch out for his outstanding breakdown that recalls the ending of RESERVOIR DOGS.
Along the way there's plenty of explicit drug abuse and the kind of grittiness that Scorcese did so well back in the 1970s. Kietel is on superb form, and watch out for his outstanding breakdown that recalls the ending of RESERVOIR DOGS.