The Detective

The 1968 movie The Detective is a riveting crime drama that showcases the gritty streets of New York through the eyes of its protagonist, Detective Joe Leland, masterfully portrayed by the legendary Frank Sinatra. The film stands out among a sea of vintage Hollywood productions in the crime genre, not only for its engaging storyline, but also because of its unconventional hero whose quest for truth entwines his personal and professional life in an inextricable web of complexity and intricate intrigue.

The film opens with Detective Leland embroiled in one of the most gruesome murder cases his department has ever encountered. The dark underbelly of New York is greasily exposed in the wake of the brutal murder of a wealthy businessman, Theodore “Teddy” Leikman. Sinatra shines as the stoic and driven Leland, a man of principle, averse to cutting corners or succumbing to corruption that is rampant in his society and force.

With meticulous care, Director Gordon Douglas, known for his work in noir films, sets up the ambiance, injecting a feeling of tension and uncertainty from the inception. The screenplay by Abby Mann digs deeper into society's vices instead of naively turning a blind eye. The movie, unlike most commercial productions of its era, does not shy away from exploring themes such as police corruption, mental illness, homosexuality, and political machinations, which were then deemed controversial.

Lee Remick plays the role of Karen Leland, Joe’s wife. Remick perfectly captures the character's nuances, showcasing a modern, progressive woman who yearns for more than what her husband and their marriage can offer. Her performance marries vulnerability with strength that adds depth to her character and revealing surprising twists in the narrative.

Ralph Meeker impresses as well, playing the part of Detective Curran, when at a time when the line between good and evil was black and white in cinema, Meeker's character embodies shades of grey - illustrating the complexities in the relationships within a police force.

One of the many exceptional aspects of The Detective is its blending of a crime narrative with an honest examination of Joe Leland's crumbling marriage. It offers an in-depth character study of the protagonist, shedding light on his personal struggles while he attempts to solve a heinous crime. The pacing of the movie is well measured, allowing individual scenes to breathe, heightening their emotional impact in the process.

The movie manages to capture a sense of realism by highlighting the extremes of society during the late 60s, which was in the midst of political and social changes. It showcases a stark contrast between the glamorous façade of the upper echelons of New York society and the gritty, harsh reality of our flawed societal systems.

There’s no shortage of dramatic subplots, from extramarital affairs and back alley dealings to internal department politics. Each element serves to enrich the plot rather than merely complicating it. Douglas contemporizes the classic detective trope, replacing the often one-dimensional, infallible alpha-male persona with a more believable, relatable figure struggling not only with his high-stress job but also his deeply personal battles.

The memorable musical score by renowned composer Jerry Goldsmith punctuates the film's tension-filled moments while also providing the rhythmic heartbeat during more sentimental scenes. The cinematography by Joseph Biroc achieves a high degree of visual intensity. It lingers on the visceral details of the crime scenes, amplifying the movie’s dark, brutal tone and the suspense attached to the unknown.

In The Detective, the audience gets to experience a multifaceted thriller that dares to delve into taboo topics, painting a picture of society both grim and occasionally hopeful. It seamlessly amplifies the cinematic ethos of the time and holds a mirror up to the dark realities lurking beneath society's seemingly civilised surface.

To conclude, The Detective is more than just another murder mystery. Sinatra’s undeniably impressive portrayal of a detective swathed in personal and professional turmoil, blended with the film’s poignant exploration of social themes marks it as a compelling watch. Its unique blend of complex characters, hard-hitting social themes, and enthralling mystery sets it apart from typical crime dramas of its time. It’s a riveting exploration of one man’s crusade for justice while battling his personal demons within a flawed system.