Director: Bryan Singer
Writer: Christopher McQuarrie
Stars: Kevin Spacey, Gabriel Byrne, Chazz Palminteri, Stephen Baldwin, Kevin Pollak, Benicio Del Toro, Pete Postlethwaite, Suzy Amis, Giancarlo Esposito

“The Usual Suspects,” directed by Bryan Singer and released in 1995, is a crime thriller that has become a touchstone for the genre, renowned for its intricate plot and iconic twist ending. Featuring a stellar ensemble cast including Gabriel Byrne, Kevin Spacey, Stephen Baldwin, Kevin Pollak, Chazz Palminteri, Benicio Del Toro, and Pete Postlethwaite, the film weaves a complex narrative that keeps audiences guessing until the very end. This review delves into the film’s production, writing, acting, cast, and overall execution, providing a comprehensive analysis of its enduring appeal.

The production of “The Usual Suspects” was overseen by producer Bryan Singer and executive producer Kenneth Kokin, with PolyGram Filmed Entertainment and Spelling Films International as the backing studios. The film was made on a relatively modest budget of $6 million, which necessitated a highly efficient and creative approach to production. Despite these financial constraints, the film’s production values are impressively high, with meticulous attention to detail in set design, cinematography, and editing.

Newton Thomas Sigel’s cinematography is particularly noteworthy, employing a dark and gritty visual style that enhances the film’s noir atmosphere. The careful framing and use of shadows contribute to the film’s sense of mystery and tension. Additionally, John Ottman’s dual role as both editor and composer allowed for a seamless integration of music and visual rhythm, further heightening the suspense and emotional impact of the narrative.

The screenplay, written by Christopher McQuarrie, is a masterclass in storytelling and structure. McQuarrie, who won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for his work, crafted a narrative that is both labyrinthine and tightly controlled. The plot revolves around the interrogation of Roger “Verbal” Kint (Kevin Spacey), a small-time con artist, who recounts the events leading up to a devastating explosion in the Port of Los Angeles. Through Kint’s unreliable narration, the story of a heist gone wrong and the shadowy figure of Keyser Söze unfolds.

McQuarrie’s script is distinguished by its non-linear structure and the use of an unreliable narrator, which keeps viewers engaged and constantly re-evaluating their understanding of the plot. The dialogue is sharp and often laced with dark humor, adding depth to the characters and their interactions. The film’s famous twist ending is a testament to McQuarrie’s ability to subvert expectations and deliver a satisfying yet unpredictable conclusion.

The ensemble cast of “The Usual Suspects” delivers outstanding performances across the board, each actor bringing a distinct presence to their roles.

Kevin Spacey’s portrayal of Verbal Kint is a standout, earning him the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Spacey masterfully embodies the character’s seemingly meek and unassuming nature, while subtly hinting at deeper, more complex layers. His performance is central to the film’s impact, particularly in the final scenes where the true nature of his character is revealed.

Gabriel Byrne’s performance as Dean Keaton, a former corrupt cop trying to go straight, is equally compelling. Byrne brings a brooding intensity to the role, capturing Keaton’s internal struggle and sense of fatalism. His interactions with the other characters, particularly Kint and Edie Finneran (Suzy Amis), reveal a man haunted by his past and desperate for redemption.

Chazz Palminteri excels as Dave Kujan, the dogged U.S. Customs agent determined to uncover the truth. Palminteri’s portrayal balances authority and frustration, as his character becomes increasingly obsessed with unraveling Kint’s story. His dynamic with Spacey’s Verbal Kint drives much of the film’s tension and narrative momentum.

The supporting cast, including Stephen Baldwin as the volatile Michael McManus, Benicio Del Toro as the eccentric Fred Fenster, Kevin Pollak as the pragmatic Todd Hockney, and Pete Postlethwaite as the enigmatic lawyer Kobayashi, all deliver memorable performances. Del Toro, in particular, adds a unique flair to his character with his distinctive speech pattern and mannerisms, making Fenster an unforgettable part of the ensemble.

Bryan Singer’s direction is pivotal in bringing McQuarrie’s complex script to life. Singer demonstrates a keen ability to manage the film’s intricate narrative structure, ensuring that the story remains coherent and engaging despite its non-linear approach. His use of visual storytelling, particularly through Sigel’s cinematography and Ottman’s editing, enhances the film’s atmosphere and keeps the audience immersed in the mystery.

Singer’s decision to emphasise character interactions and subtle visual clues pays off, especially in the film’s climactic reveal. The meticulous pacing allows for a gradual buildup of tension, making the final twist both shocking and satisfying. The film’s execution, from its visual style to its narrative structure, showcases Singer’s talent for creating a compelling and tightly woven thriller.

Newton Thomas Sigel’s cinematography plays a crucial role in establishing the film’s noir aesthetic. The use of low-key lighting, deep shadows, and a muted color palette creates a sense of foreboding and mystery. The visual composition of scenes, particularly the iconic lineup sequence, has become emblematic of the film’s style and mood.

“The Usual Suspects” explores themes of deception, identity, and the nature of evil. The character of Keyser Söze serves as a symbol of ultimate, almost mythical criminality, challenging the audience’s perceptions of power and fear. The film’s exploration of truth and narrative manipulation is reflected in its structure and the character of Verbal Kint, prompting viewers to question the reliability of what they see and hear.

“The Usual Suspects” remains a landmark in the crime thriller genre, distinguished by its masterful writing, stellar ensemble cast, and innovative direction. Bryan Singer’s vision, combined with Christopher McQuarrie’s intricate screenplay and standout performances from Kevin Spacey, Gabriel Byrne, and the rest of the cast, ensures that the film’s impact endures. Its exploration of complex themes and its unforgettable twist ending continue to captivate and intrigue audiences, solidifying its status as a classic of modern cinema.