The Iceman (2012)

Crime, Drama, Biography

Director: Ariel Vromen
Writers: Morgan Land, Ariel Vromen, Anthony Bruno, Jim Thebaut
Starring: Michael Shannon, Winona Ryder, Chris Evans, Ray Liotta

"Loving husband. Devoted father. Ruthless killer."

Michael Shannon (Take Shelter, 99 Homes) once again shines in this gritty biopic that tells the real story of Richard Kuklinski, one of the world's most prolific contract killers, who has killed over 200 men, by his own estimates, throughout his career that spanned over 30 years, while his wife and daughters were completely unaware about his real profession.

Even though receiving not much of a favorable critical response, the film's story, benefited by a solid performance by its lead, and a pretty impressive suporting cast that includes Ray Liotta, Winona Ryder, Chris Evans, David Schwimmer, Stephen Dorff and James Franco, make it one of those crime thrillers you will most likely be glad you have stumbled across.

Plot summary from IMDb: In the 1960s, Richard Kuklinski is working as a porn film lab tech until his mob bosses persuade him to change his career into that of a contract killer. For years, Kuklinski gains a reputation for cold blooded professionalism even as he raises a family who are kept in the dark about his true career. Unfortunately, mob politics ultimately forces him to secretly work independently with the psychopathic Robert 'Mr. Freezy' Pronge. As much as Kuklinski tries to keep his lives separate, circumstances and his own weaknesses threaten a terrible collision as the consequences of his choices finally catch up to him.

Awards: 2 wins.
Runtime: 106 min
R