Release: 1995-07-19
Runtime: 1h 46m (106 minutes)
Held in an L.A. interrogation room, Verbal Kint attempts to convince the feds that a mythic crime lord, Keyser Soze, not only exists, but was also responsible for drawing him and his four partners into a multi-million dollar heist that ended with an explosion in San Pedro harbor – leaving few survivors. Verbal lures his interrogators with an incredible story of the crime lord's almost supernatural prowess.
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Genres: Drama, Thriller, Crime
Cast: Kevin Spacey, Gabriel Byrne, Benicio del Toro, more
Kevin Spacey
as Verbal
Gabriel Byrne
as Keaton
Benicio del Toro
as Fenster
Giancarlo Esposito
as Jack Baer
Pete Postlethwaite
as Kobayashi
Dan Hedaya
as Jeff Rabin
Stephen Baldwin
as McManus
Clark Gregg
as Dr. Walters
Chazz Palminteri
as Dave Kujan
Peter Greene
as Redfoot the Fence (uncredited)
Kevin Pollak
as Hockney
Suzy Amis
as Edie Finneran
Held in an L.A. interrogation room, Verbal Kint attempts to convince the feds that a mythic crime lord, Keyser Soze, not only exists, but was also responsible for drawing him and his four partners into a multi-million dollar heist that ended with an explosion in San Pedro harbor – leaving few survivors. Verbal lures his interrogators with an incredible story of the crime lord's almost supernatural prowess.
Five criminals. One line up. No coincidence.
The Usual Suspects is a 1995 American crime thriller directed by Bryan Singer and written by Christopher McQuarrie. The film features a talented cast, including Kevin Spacey, Gabriel Byrne, Benicio del Toro, Chazz Palminteri, and Stephen Baldwin.
The story revolves around Roger "Verbal" Kint, a small-time con artist who finds himself in a police interrogation room after surviving a massacre on a ship in San Pedro Bay. As he recounts the events leading up to the tragic incident, he spins a complex tale filled with twists and turns, focusing on a mysterious crime lord known as Keyser Söze.
Initially released at the Sundance Film Festival on 25 January 1995 and later in the United States on 16 August 1995, the film was made on a budget of $6 million. Despite its modest start, it grossed over $66 million worldwide, thanks in part to its compelling story and critical acclaim.
Throughout the film, Verbal Kint narrates his backstory involving a group of criminals, including Dean Keaton, Michael McManus, Fred Fenster, and Todd Hockney. The criminals are initially brought together during a police lineup and subsequently plan a heist that spirals out of control, leading them to cross paths with the elusive Keyser Söze.
One of the film's standout aspects is its intricate plot, which is layered with deception and unexpected plot twists. The screenplay received high praise and won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, while Spacey's portrayal of Verbal Kint earned him the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
The film's non-linear storytelling and unique structure have led to it being compared to classics such as Double Indemnity and Rashomon. Its memorable ending leaves audiences questioning the narrative they just witnessed, making it a film that demands multiple viewings. The movie's twist ending, revealing Verbal Kint as the real mastermind behind the chaos, has become iconic in cinema history.
Critics have hailed The Usual Suspects as a clever and expertly crafted film. On review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, it holds an 87% approval rating, indicating widespread acclaim. Metacritic rates it at 77 out of 100, signaling generally favorable reviews from critics. Some reviews, however, have been mixed, with some noting its complexity as a drawback.
In addition to its critical success, The Usual Suspects has gained a significant following over the years. It was recognized in various awards circles, including being ranked as the tenth-best mystery film by the American Film Institute in June 2008. Verbal Kint’s character was also noted as one of the most memorable villains in cinematic history.
Overall, The Usual Suspects is a notable entry in the crime thriller genre, showcasing strong performances, a riveting plot, and a twist that has left a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike.
