Homicide (The Criterion Collection) [DVD] - Thoughtful Crime Drama

Our review of Homicide (The Criterion Collection) [DVD] finds it best suited to viewers who appreciate character-driven crime dramas that challenge identity and ethics. Joe Mantegna's portrayal of detective Bobby Gold anchors a film that starts as a gritty police procedural but evolves into a probing moral study. This Criterion release is worth picking up for anyone interested in David Mamet's early directorial voice and a performance-focused experience on DVD rather than spectacle.

Key Features

• Lead performance: Joe Mantegna delivers a restrained, compelling turn that gives the film its emotional center and keeps the viewer invested.
• Direction: David Mamet's direction shifts the story from routine crime into a thoughtful exploration of identity, adding depth beyond genre expectations.
• Supporting cast: William H. Macy and Natalija Nogulich provide grounded, believable support that complements the central conflict and raises the dramatic stakes.
• Narrative focus: The murder case at the story's core forces the protagonist into a crisis that explores heritage and duty, offering a thoughtful thematic payoff.
• Criterion presentation: This collection presentation targets collectors and cinephiles who prefer a curated DVD edition of a significant dramatic film.

Who It's For

Homicide is a good fit for film fans who prioritize performance and theme over fast-paced action. Viewers interested in David Mamet's writing and directing or in in-depth character studies will find the DVD rewarding, especially those who collect Criterion releases.

Those seeking high-octane cops-and-robbers thrills or modern visual effects should look elsewhere; this is a dialogue-driven drama that unfolds through moral tension and subtle performances rather than spectacle.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Strong lead performance by Joe Mantegna that anchors the film.
• David Mamet's direction turns a procedural premise into a thoughtful moral drama.
• Solid supporting turns, including William H. Macy, that enrich the story.

Cons

• The pacing and deliberate focus on identity may feel slow to viewers expecting action-focused crime movies.

Specifications

Our Verdict

Homicide on DVD is a worthwhile purchase for viewers who value performance and thematic depth. Joe Mantegna's central role and David Mamet's focused direction make this a smart pick for collectors and serious drama fans, offering enduring value as a character-driven crime film.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this the Criterion edition on DVD?
Yes, this listing is for Homicide as part of The Criterion Collection on DVD.

Who stars in the film?
Joe Mantegna leads the cast, with notable supporting performances by William H. Macy and Natalija Nogulich.

What kind of crime film is this?
It begins as a grounded police drama but becomes a thematic exploration of identity and moral conflict rather than a fast-paced thriller.