Ordinary Decent Criminal

Ordinary Decent Criminal is a 2000 crime comedy film directed by Thaddeus O'Sullivan, starring Oscar summa Kevin Spacey in the captivating role of Michael Lynch, the character who anchors this engrossing tale. His suave performance teamed with the scintillating talents of Linda Fiorentino and Peter Mullan bring this enthralling criminal saga to life and keep viewers on their toes.

Set in Dublin, Ireland, Ordinary Decent Criminal starts by chronicling the life of charismatic, charming, yet roguishly cunning Michael Lynch. Lynch is a highly successful criminal mastermind who has not just become filthy rich but also a well-known figure among the locals thanks to his daring exploits. Kevin Spacey's charismatic portrayal of Michael Lynch brings out the charm of this central character, a man who's loved by two women, respected by his gang and admired for his defiance against the authorities.

The character Lynch is a man who enjoys playing cat and mouse games with the police. He has become quite the expert at outsmarting law enforcement, mainly due to his high intellect and his talent for impeccable planning. Besides, he is also a hero of sorts among the city's inhabitants because he does have a moral compass of his own. Although a criminal, he's seen as an ordinary decent criminal who follows a set of his own fundamentally intact ethics.

Linda Fiorentino and Peter Mullan, who play major roles in the film, complement Spacey’s performance, developing a vibrant on-screen concrete dynamic that's credible and relatable. Fiorentino plays Christine, one of Lynch's wives, where she projects her character's complexities and emotional landscape convincingly, making audiences empathize with her situation. Mullan takes on the role of Stevie, Michael's loyal assistant, and provides a solid support pillar to the gang's activities. Every character within the Lynch gang stands out, making the storyline much more captivating.

The director, Thaddeus O'Sullivan, brilliantly guides the narrative and execution of this clever script. With some impressively orchestrated heists, high-paced car chases, and intense stand-offs, O'Sullivan creates an exhilarating viewing experience. The film is beautifully shot across Dublin, with some scenes remarkably seizing the essence of the Irish landscapes and metropolitan life lending a genuine feel to the setting of the narrative.

What sets Ordinary Decent Criminal apart is its blend of genres that melds elements of dark comedy and crime thriller into a cohesive and entrancing whole. It's a celebration of the audacious, the ones who dare to challenge the system and bend the rules. Amidst the slick heists and thrilling chases, there are dashes of humor and wit, mainly delivered by Kevin Spacey's character, which keep the mood light-hearted and entertaining, making this movie a crime story with a touch of comedy.

Additionally, the film weaves an intriguing subplot around the intense power play between Lynch and the law enforcement. Despite their best efforts, the police are always a step behind Lynch, escalating the tension throughout the narrative. Their desperate attempts to bring him to justice only add to the audience's anticipation and makes his feats seem even more impressive.

In conclusion, Ordinary Decent Criminal is an engrossing crime comedy movie that offers an entertaining portrayal of the life of a charming yet cunning criminal mastermind. It beautifully combines the thrill of the crime genre with occasional doses of light-hearted humor. With Kevin Spacey’s exceptional performance at its core, supported by the equally impressive cast of Linda Fiorentino and Peter Mullan, it manages to engage, entertain, and keep audiences guessing until the very end. Whether you are a fan of crime capers or someone who appreciates witty, razor-sharp dialogues and complex characters, then Ordinary Decent Criminal is a movie that you wouldn't want to miss out on.