Storyline
Based upon the true story of Bruce Johnston Sr., his son, and his brothers; together, they constituted one of suburban Philadelphia's most notorious crime families during the 1970's. Their criminal activities ranged from burglary, theft... and ultimately, murder.
Directors
Cast
Christopher Walken, Chris Penn, Crispin Glover, David Strathairn, Paul Herman, Sean Penn, E.R. Davies, Anna Levine, R. D. Call, Mary Stuart Masterson, Millie Perkins, Tracey Walter, Kiefer Sutherland, Candy Clark, James Foley, Eileen Ryan, J.C. Quinn, Noelle Parker, Myke R. Mueller, Stephen Geoffreys, Jake Dengel, Alan Autry, Gary Gober, Marshall Fallwell Jr., Douglas Anderson, Nancy Sherburne, Terry Baker, Bob McDivitt, Bonita Hall, Terri Coulter, Janie Draper, Charles 'Tatoo' Jensen, Michael Edwards
Trailer
Reviews
88
Because this film is violent and cruel and very sad, why would you want to see it? For a couple of reasons, perhaps. One might be to watch two great actors, Penn and Walken, at the top of their forms in roles that give them a lot to work with. Another might be to witness some of the dynamics of a criminal society, some of the forces that push criminals further than they intend to go.
80
Audiences will respond to the very strong performances of the two leads, especially Walken in one of his best roles.
80
Newsweek
At times veering toward the portentous, the film nonetheless has the relentless rhythm of a juggernaut. The acting is first-rate American realism -- gutsy, funny and scary as the occasion demands. [09 June 1986, p.79]
75
Relentlessly grim, At Close Range offers a frightening glimpse at the dark side of American life and poses disturbing questions about family ties. Unfortunately, although director James Foley handles the performances with skill, he also indulges in too many flashy directorial pyrotechnics, muting the emotional impact.
63
At Close Range is impeccably photographed, and its other technical credits are fine, too. But this excellence serves a dubious, confused cause, and on that basis the film cannot be recommended.
