Gangster Squad

Ryan Gosling AND the mob, give me a break.  Chances out of one billion that I would hate this movie...zero.  I loved Gangster Squad so much and I would have still loved it without Ryan Gosling, now that's saying something.  This movie is well worth your hard earned ca$h.

Let's start with Sean Penn, he was simply fantastic in this movie.  If anyone can play a heartless mobster, he is the man.  Oh my gosh, he's come a long way baby.  He is a fine actor and has turned into a great philanthropist as well.  The story is loosely based on the true story of an underground group of LAPD police officers determined to take down mobster Mickey Cohen and Penn plays Cohen.

This movie was a fun roller coaster ride.  Nothing award winning or deep, but really fun.  I feel a need to warn you of two things:  1. this film is very violent and 2. Sean Penn's makeup looks funny.  Like I said, it's probably not going to win any awards, but if you are looking for a super fun time at the movies, and you aren't too offended by mobster type violence, I think this movie is a good choice.

In addition to Gosling and Penn the cast includes Emma Stone and Josh Brolin.  Brolin plays a police Sargent   who assembles the group of officers to take down Cohen (the Gangster Squad).  Stone's character is largely unnecessary and forgettable. I have the feeling they wanted to add a love story element, but it wasn't necessary.

Gangster Squad has a US DVD release date scheduled in May of this year; it will be a great rental.  If you have a theater near you still showing this movie I recommend it as a great matinee choice.

Gangster Squad is rated R for strong violence and language.

What do you think of Ronda's Reaction to Gangster Squad?