We Own the Night

Quite a pleasant surprise in the end. James Gray has improved quite a bit, after the previous very boring, almost TV-like The Yards this is way better. At times pretty suspenseful (the visit to a drug den, the car chase in the rain), at times ridiculously theatrical; overall a better 3*. The bloodless Wahlberg is much neglected, Eva Mendes serves as mere decoration, basically the whole thing is pulled by a superb Phoenix, it’s a terrible shame that he plays in so few films. (02/01/2008)

How did this gem escape my attention for so long? I happened to come across it recently and must admit that James Gray surprised me. We Own the Night boasts flawless stylization. The creators truly succeeded in capturing the 1980s retro atmosphere perfectly. Moreover, I can’t overlook the cast. Joaquin Phoenix was outstanding, but even Robert Duvall, as the father of the main character, contributed significantly with his years of experience in the industry. Surprisingly, I was also pleased with the story. I was genuinely expecting another tired, clichéd plot, but thankfully, that wasn’t the case. The screenplay played cleverly with the audience, like a cat with a mouse. And that chase scene, where the focus is solely on the sound of the windshield wipers with an unpleasant screeching in the background? A masterfully directed moment (and emotionally powerful). The raid on the drug den also had its charm (I was holding my breath there). The film truly offers a lot, and I can definitely recommend it. For me, it’s an 8/10. (09/07/2023)

A very good thriller with a perfect cast, a tense atmosphere and an interesting plot. From beginning to end the film is accompanied by style, brutality, Russian mafia, drugs and a lot of great scenes, especially the one in the drug den and the chase on the rain. Those who haven't seen it catch up immediately. For me, a lot of great satisfaction. 80%. (05/12/2014)

There have been so many of these tough stories that it can't be counted, but this new release rides on the wave of the magnificent American Gangster, though unfortunately it doesn't measure up. If it wasn't for Phoenix, I wouldn't know where to look out of boredom. The family background doesn't have enough connection, and therefore some reactions are unjustified – or rather, you don't sympathise with the characters. The fault is in the the script, of course, not the actors – though, to be honest, good-guy Wahlberg’s performance is particularly good this time, and daddy Duvall can do better too. There are two scenes that are worth watching: the creatively conceived car chase with excellent camerawork, and the infiltration scene. The Russian accent is awesome. (09/23/2008)

We Own the Night is smaller and less original, but more open and emotionally relatable than the similar American Gangster. Excellent actors, hard-on-inducing Eva Mendes, and a breath-taking car chase that will make the blood freeze in your veins. Very good job, folks! (02/18/2008)