Lucky Number Slevin is a 2006 crime thriller directed by Paul McGuigan and features an ensemble cast including Josh Hartnett, Bruce Willis, Morgan Freeman, Ben Kingsley, and Lucy Liu. The film is known for its intricate plot, dark humor, and stylish direction, combining elements of crime, mystery, and revenge.
The story follows Slevin Kelevra (played by Josh Hartnett), an unlucky man who, after mistaken identity, gets caught in the middle of a deadly feud between two rival crime bosses, known as "The Boss" (Morgan Freeman) and "The Rabbi" (Ben Kingsley). Both demand Slevin to settle debts, unaware that Slevin has a plan of his own. Meanwhile, Bruce Willis plays Mr. Goodkat, a mysterious hitman who also seems to have his own agenda.
Cinematic Style The film's aesthetic is sleek and modern, with sharp editing and stylish visuals. Director Paul McGuigan brings a sense of flair, with bright colors and unique framing that give the movie a distinctive look. The dialogue is snappy and often laced with dark humor, which lightens the otherwise tense atmosphere. The non-linear storytelling and gradual reveal of information keep the audience engaged and guessing, making it a film that often warrants a second viewing to catch all the intricacies of the plot. Reception While Lucky Number Slevin didn't perform spectacularly at the box office, grossing around $56 million worldwide against its $27 million budget, it became somewhat of a cult hit. The film was praised for its clever script and unexpected plot twists, though some critics found the complexity of the story to be excessive. Josh Hartnett’s and Bruce Willis’s performances were particularly highlighted, as was the chemistry between the cast members. Fun Fact The title "Slevin" is a play on the word "seven," which is a recurring motif in the film. The number plays a subtle but significant role in both the character names and the plot's symbolism. If you enjoy films with intricate plots and stylish presentation, Lucky Number Slevin is often compared to movies like The Usual Suspects and Pulp Fiction, both of which blend crime with unexpected twists.
The protagonist, seemingly unlucky but more clever than he initially appears.
A cold and calculating hitman who plays a crucial role in the unfolding mystery.
A powerful crime lord with a personal vendetta against The Rabbi.
A rival crime lord and former ally of The Boss, now locked in a deadly rivalry.