Kevin Costner delivered a career-defining performance as Elliot Ness in the critically acclaimed 1987 film The Untouchables, bringing to life the real-life Treasury agent’s relentless fight against Al Capone’s criminal empire. His portrayal cemented Ness’s image in popular culture as an incorruptible symbol of law and order during the Prohibition era.
Costner’s Ness: An American Icon Reborn
The Untouchables, directed by Brian De Palma and written by David Mamet, isn’t just a gangster film; it’s a morality play. Costner’s Ness, initially depicted as somewhat naive and inexperienced, undergoes a compelling transformation as he witnesses the brutality of Capone’s operation firsthand. He evolves into a hardened, determined figure, willing to bend the rules (but never break them entirely) to achieve justice. Costner masterfully conveys this evolution, showcasing both the vulnerability and the unwavering resolve of the character.
The film cleverly juxtaposes Costner’s clean-cut, all-American Ness against Robert De Niro’s menacing and larger-than-life Capone, creating a powerful dramatic tension. The supporting cast, including Sean Connery as the hardened Irish cop Jim Malone and Andy Garcia as the sharpshooting Italian-American agent George Stone (originally Giuseppe Petri), further enriches the narrative. Costner’s ability to convincingly lead this ensemble cast contributed significantly to the film’s success.
While the film takes liberties with historical accuracy, Costner’s portrayal of Ness captured the essence of his unwavering commitment to fighting corruption. He imbued the character with a quiet intensity and a strong moral compass, making him relatable and inspiring to audiences. The Untouchables not only revitalized Costner’s career but also solidified Ness’s place in American folklore.
Behind the Scenes: Casting and Preparation
The role of Elliot Ness was highly coveted, attracting considerable interest from several prominent actors. The casting of Costner was, in retrospect, a stroke of genius. His inherent earnestness and youthful idealism perfectly aligned with the initial depiction of Ness as an honest, but somewhat untested, agent.
Costner prepared for the role by researching Ness’s life and career. He studied historical accounts and attempted to understand the pressures and challenges Ness faced in his battle against organized crime. While the film dramatized certain aspects of Ness’s story, Costner strived to capture the core of the man: his unwavering belief in justice and his determination to uphold the law.
The collaboration between Costner and De Palma was crucial to the film’s success. De Palma’s meticulous direction, combined with Costner’s dedicated performance, created a compelling and visually stunning cinematic experience. The film’s iconic scenes, such as the Union Station shootout, showcase both De Palma’s directorial prowess and Costner’s ability to command the screen.
The Untouchables: Legacy and Impact
The Untouchables was a critical and commercial success, garnering numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Sean Connery. The film revitalized the gangster genre and helped launch Costner into superstardom. Its impact on popular culture is undeniable, with its memorable dialogue and iconic imagery continuing to resonate with audiences today.
The film also reignited interest in the historical Elliot Ness and his fight against organized crime. While historical accuracy was not the film’s primary goal, it served as a powerful reminder of the importance of fighting corruption and upholding the law. Costner’s portrayal of Ness helped to humanize a legendary figure, making him relatable and inspiring to a new generation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
H3 Was Kevin Costner the first choice to play Elliot Ness?
No, Kevin Costner was not the first actor considered for the role of Elliot Ness. Several other actors, including Mel Gibson, were reportedly approached. Ultimately, the producers and director Brian De Palma believed that Costner’s inherent qualities and screen presence were the best fit for the character.
H3 How historically accurate is Kevin Costner’s portrayal of Elliot Ness?
While The Untouchables is based on a true story, it takes significant liberties with historical accuracy. Certain events are dramatized or fictionalized for cinematic effect. Costner’s portrayal of Ness is therefore more of a stylized representation of the historical figure rather than a strictly factual one. He successfully conveys the spirit of the man, but not necessarily every detail of his life.
H3 Did Elliot Ness actually assemble a team called “The Untouchables”?
Yes, Elliot Ness did assemble a small team of agents who were considered incorruptible and trustworthy. This team was often referred to as “The Untouchables” due to their refusal to accept bribes from Capone’s organization. The film’s depiction of this team is largely based on fact, although the specific members and events are sometimes fictionalized.
H3 How did The Untouchables affect Kevin Costner’s career?
The Untouchables was a pivotal moment in Kevin Costner’s career. Prior to the film, he had appeared in several notable roles, but he was not yet a major star. The Untouchables propelled him to superstardom, establishing him as a leading man and paving the way for subsequent successes such as Dances with Wolves and JFK.
H3 What made Kevin Costner’s performance as Elliot Ness so memorable?
Several factors contributed to the memorability of Costner’s performance. His inherent likability, his ability to convey both vulnerability and strength, and his chemistry with the other actors all played a role. Moreover, the iconic status of the film itself helped to solidify Costner’s portrayal of Ness in popular culture.
H3 How did the film contribute to the mythology surrounding Elliot Ness?
The Untouchables significantly contributed to the mythology surrounding Elliot Ness, portraying him as an almost mythical figure of incorruptibility and justice. While the historical Ness was a complex and multifaceted individual, the film simplified his story and presented him as a heroic figure fighting against overwhelming odds.
H3 What other actors have portrayed Elliot Ness?
Several actors have portrayed Elliot Ness in various films and television series. Robert Stack played Ness in the original Untouchables television series in the 1950s and 1960s. Tom Amandes portrayed Ness in the 1993 television series The Untouchables. Each actor brought their own interpretation to the role, but Costner’s portrayal remains the most widely recognized and iconic.
H3 What was the critical reception of Kevin Costner’s performance?
Kevin Costner’s performance as Elliot Ness was generally well-received by critics. While some critics found his portrayal somewhat understated, most praised his ability to convey Ness’s moral conviction and his growing determination to bring down Capone. His chemistry with Sean Connery and Andy Garcia was also widely praised.
H3 Did Elliot Ness have any input into the making of The Untouchables?
Elliot Ness died in 1957, long before the film was made. Therefore, he had no direct input into the production. However, the film was based on his memoir, The Untouchables, which provided the foundation for the story.
H3 Why is The Untouchables considered a classic gangster film?
The Untouchables is considered a classic gangster film for several reasons. Its compelling narrative, its strong performances, its stylish direction, and its iconic imagery all contribute to its enduring appeal. The film’s exploration of themes such as corruption, justice, and the power of friendship also resonates with audiences.
H3 What is the significance of the Union Station shootout scene?
The Union Station shootout scene is one of the most memorable and influential scenes in The Untouchables. Its meticulously choreographed action, its suspenseful atmosphere, and its dramatic impact make it a defining moment in the film. The scene also serves as a turning point in Ness’s character arc, demonstrating his willingness to take extreme measures to achieve justice.
H3 What other films did Kevin Costner star in that are similar in theme or genre to The Untouchables?
Following the success of The Untouchables, Kevin Costner starred in several other films that explored similar themes of law and order, justice, and heroism. These include JFK, which deals with the investigation into the assassination of President Kennedy, and A Perfect World, which explores the complex relationship between a lawman and an escaped convict. These films, like The Untouchables, showcased Costner’s ability to portray characters who are driven by a strong sense of morality and justice.