June 3, 1987, marked the electrifying debut of Brian De Palma's 'The Untouchables' in theaters, a cinematic powerhouse that instantly captivated audiences and critics alike. This release date was not just a premiere; it was the unveiling of a stylish, brutal, and utterly compelling vision of Prohibition-era Chicago, setting the stage for one of the year's most significant box office successes. The film's blend of historical drama, action, and star power cemented its place in cinematic history, kicking off its journey to becoming a beloved classic right from this initial showing and laying the groundwork for its impressive commercial performance.
What it is
Directed by Brian De Palma and penned by David Mamet, 'The Untouchables' is a gripping crime drama set during the Great Depression. The film chronicles the efforts of Eliot Ness (Kevin Costner), a federal agent determined to bring down the notorious mob boss Al Capone (Robert De Niro) in Chicago. Ness assembles a small, incorruptible team, including veteran Irish-American beat cop Jimmy Malone (Sean Connery), treasury accountant Oscar Wallace (Charles Martin Smith), and Italian-American police academy rookie George Stone (Andy Garcia). Together, this dedicated group fights against systemic corruption and Capone's violent empire, adhering to their unwavering moral code amidst a city steeped in crime and lawlessness. The film is renowned for its iconic performances, particularly Connery's Oscar-winning turn, and its visually stunning, often violent, depiction of the era.
How it came to be
The genesis of 'The Untouchables' began with Paramount Pictures' interest in revitalizing the classic 1959 television series. Director Brian De Palma, known for his distinctive visual style, was brought on board, and playwright David Mamet was tasked with writing the screenplay. Mamet crafted a tight, character-driven narrative that distilled the essence of the historical struggle between Ness and Capone, while De Palma imbued the film with his signature cinematic flair, including the now-legendary Union Station shootout scene, an homage to Sergei Eisenstein's 'Battleship Potemkin'. Casting was crucial, with Kevin Costner stepping into the role of Ness, Robert De Niro famously gaining weight to portray Capone, and Sean Connery delivering a career-defining performance as the grizzled Malone, securing his only Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Ennio Morricone's magnificent score further elevated the film's emotional intensity.
How many it sold
Upon its release on June 3, 1987, 'The Untouchables' quickly established itself as a major box office hit. The film garnered an impressive domestic gross of $76,270,454, a substantial return given its reported production budget of approximately $25 million. This robust performance cemented its status as one of the top-grossing films of 1987, demonstrating its widespread appeal and critical acclaim. Its commercial success was a testament to the powerful storytelling, star power, and stylish direction, allowing it to easily surpass its production costs and achieve significant profitability for Paramount Pictures, proving that audiences were eager for a sophisticated, action-packed period crime drama.
Why it resonated
'The Untouchables' resonated deeply with audiences and critics for its compelling narrative, memorable performances, and striking visual style. The film's central themes of justice, corruption, and the fight against overwhelming odds struck a universal chord. Sean Connery's portrayal of Jimmy Malone, delivering both gravitas and wit, was particularly celebrated, earning him an Oscar. The film's meticulously recreated 1930s Chicago atmosphere, coupled with Ennio Morricone's evocative score, immersed viewers in its world. Its blend of classic gangster tropes with modern filmmaking techniques, including its infamous moments of intense violence, solidified its reputation as a significant entry in the crime genre and a powerful exploration of American mythology.
Impact today
'The Untouchables' continues to wield significant influence as a touchstone in the gangster film genre, cementing its place as a modern classic. Its iconic scenes, particularly the Union Station shootout, are frequently referenced and studied for their masterful execution. The film's influence can be seen in subsequent crime dramas that aim for both historical authenticity and heightened cinematic drama. It solidified Kevin Costner's leading man status and provided Sean Connery with one of his most beloved roles. Today, 'The Untouchables' maintains a strong presence in pop culture, frequently airing on television, available on streaming platforms, and often cited in discussions of great cinema. Its legacy endures through its captivating storytelling and enduring performances.
Historical content researched and generated by Gemini 2.5 Pro.