We're No Angels

We're No Angels is a 1989 comedy film that showcases the exquisite talent of three of Hollywood's finest actors – Robert De Niro, Sean Penn, and Demi Moore. Directed by Neil Jordan, the film is a reinterpretation of a 1955 film of the same name, translating the original plot into a comedy that smartly balances crime and religion. This film provides an amusing, thoughtful, and, at times, eccentric journey through the prospects of repentance, faith, and the notion of good deeds.

The story begins with Ned (Robert De Niro) and Jim (Sean Penn), two small-time crooks in the 1930s who are serving time in prison. Following a spectacularly chaotic series of events, they manage to escape during an upheaval, orchestrated by other inmates of the prison facility located near the Canadian border. As they search for refuge, the two stumble upon a desolate border town, where their misadventures continue with an eclectic mix of comedy, cringe, and charisma.

Robert De Niro, showcasing his unrivaled versatility, presents a compelling portrayal of Ned, a seasoned yet somewhat soft-hearted criminal who somehow always winds up in a moral muddle. Sean Penn delivers an equally sterling performance as Jim, an illiterate and simple-minded convict. The duo complements each other perfectly, evoking both laughter and sympathy from the audience as they maneuver their way through one dilemma after another.

The plot thickens with the arrival of Molly (Demi Moore), a gritty, no-nonsense single mother who captures the attention of Ned. Demi Moore’s character adds a layer of emotional complexity to the movie as she struggles with her own issues – her hopeless love life, financial difficulties, and the longing to leave the town for good. The dynamic between Molly and the two convicts forms a pivotal part of the narrative, injecting elements of romance, compassion, and comic relief simultaneously.

During their escapades, Ned and Jim run into a monastery, hoping to hide in plain sight from the authorities hot on their tails. Disguised as priests, the pair encounters a host of quirky characters, including a suspicious Father Levesque (Hoyt Axton) and the gullible Father Riley (Wallace Shawn). The various encounters lead them to situations where they find themselves performing tasks they had never imagined, eventually earning the respect and adoration of the townsfolk despite their hidden criminal past.

We're No Angels uses the intriguing juxtaposition of criminality and divinity to deliver thoughtful messages about redemption and transformation. Holy symbols and religious rituals are humorously woven into the narrative, while the characters grapple with moral dilemmas, wrestling with their consciences more than the law enforcement pursuing them.

Neil Jordan's adept directorial skills complement the impressive screenplay by David Mamet, making the movie a magnetic combination of wit, satire, and simplistic wisdom. The film employs well-structured visual comedy and clever dialogues to ensure an engaging experience. Cinematography by Philippe Rousselot adds to the enchanting narrative, and the 1930s setting is faithfully recreated, transporting the audience back in time.

The film concludes on a high note, with a poignant yet comedic scenario that serves as a testament to the characters' unforeseen transformation in the course of the movie.

In essence, We're No Angels demonstrates not only the exemplary acting prowess of the leading actors, but also underlines the transformative power of faith and unforeseen friendships. The movie is an amalgamation of strong character-driven narratives, subtly thought-provoking themes, and classic humorous situations, serving up an emotional and humorous escapade that's difficult to resist. It's no surprise that the film has stood firm against the sands of time, remaining a memorable feature in the filmographies of Robert De Niro, Sean Penn, and Demi Moore.