Sleepers (1996)

Masterful Movie

This is one of the few movies I've ever seen where the whole audience broke into spontaneous, loud applause a third of the way in.

This is ultimately a movie about the very bad things that can happen when we don't address our unease, when we just try to brush it off, whether that's to fit in or to preserve our self-image.

Strong acting helps the film overcome an uncertain premise and create characters that hold our attention absolutely.

I forgot just how much I loved this movie. Classic. Well acted. Fantastic story.

Barry Levinson's all star heavy Sleepers is a very, very good film featuring some standout performances from known and unknown faces. This is a film you will remember for some time since you leave the theater.

performances. script. atmosphere. precise build of each part. a film about justice. and a story who use the references to Count of Monte Cristo as axis for a real gem. because , it could be perceived as version of Alexandre Dumas 's novel. same broken happiness. same cruel punishment. and the way to revenge. and the significant detail of few memorable scenes.a film who remains perfect. for the touching portrait of friendship. for the status of de Niro and Hoffman as pillars and for wise work of the young actors. de Niro does one of the most profound roles because his father Bobby is splendid definition of the Church's mission. a film about truth . dramatic, smart, beautiful in a special way.

I am giving this a 10. First thing first- I watched it in 2016. 20 years after it came out.And as i checked some facts about its origin, I found out that people questioned its "truthfulness" and cared far less of its content. That's sickening!The author of the book reveals of the personal sexual abuse he received at Boys Juvenile center.. would you do that if that REALLY didn't happen?Would any of us will say "I was raped even if I wasn't?" I think its more of a reverse...If someone is sexually assaulted, then there are chances that he might hide it out of shame or horror of reliving it... Thing is I don't question its truthfulness.And even it was faked, content is one that should be cared about.Kids are supposed to be "kept in line" at a Juvenile Center rather than forced upon or raped. It wet my eyes when I see kids being treated like that.About the performances, I think everybody performs superb especially Brad Pitt who is outstanding in the court(in order to lose the case).I also like the character of "Shakes" played by Jason Patric.And the character who draws me to watch any movie he is in-Robert DE Great Niro... superb as a gentleman as always. (I always wonder how many "flop" movies this legend has played in?-- - 1,2 or none... I don't think there is any).I recommend this movie. It asked me to write a First ever IMDb review.