Kevin Costner’s ‘The Untouchables’ Thrives on Streaming Platforms

Kevin Costner‘s iconic film, The Untouchables, has surged in popularity since its debut on the streaming service Paramount+ on October 17, 2023. Directed by Brian De Palma, this classic gangster film has quickly become one of the platform’s top ten hits globally, now sitting at the ninth spot, according to FlixPatrol.

Originally released in 1987, The Untouchables is set in 1930s Chicago and chronicles the efforts of special agent Eliot Ness to bring the infamous gangster Al Capone to justice. Costner’s portrayal of Ness, alongside Robert De Niro‘s vibrant performance as Capone, helped solidify the film’s status within the gangster genre. The film combines the sweeping scale of Westerns with a gripping cops-and-robbers narrative, making it a standout in cinema history.

Critical Acclaim and Lasting Impact

The film’s critical acclaim is underscored by its impressive 83% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, where the critics’ consensus highlights its “slick” exterior and “artful touches.” The score, composed by the legendary Ennio Morricone, adds depth to the film’s atmosphere, while a memorable sequence pays tribute to the classic Russian film Battleship Potemkin. Sean Connery‘s portrayal of veteran cop James Malone earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, and the film itself garnered four nominations.

Financially, The Untouchables was a success, grossing over $105 million worldwide against a production budget of approximately $25 million. This commercial triumph contributed significantly to Costner’s rise to superstardom, leading to a series of notable films, including Field of Dreams, JFK, and The Bodyguard.

Costner’s Continued Success

Following the success of The Untouchables, Costner further cemented his place in Hollywood with Dances with Wolves, released in 1990. This film not only grossed over $400 million globally, but it also showcased his talents as a director. More recently, Costner has found success on television with the Paramount+ series Yellowstone, further broadening his audience.

As the resurgence of The Untouchables on streaming platforms illustrates, classic films continue to captivate audiences, proving that timeless stories and powerful performances can transcend generations. For those eager to experience this landmark film, it is available for streaming on Paramount+.

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