Based on the James Ellroy novel, L. A. Confidential shows the sleazy side of Hollywood in the 1950's. The movie condenses the book down from years to days but all of the great characters and sleazy mystery is still intact.

L.A. Confidential tells the story of three LAPD cops who are investigating a multiple homicide. Ed Exley, is a by the book, kiss ass who is looking for a promotion. Bud White is a tough, prone to violent veteran who bends the rules to dispense his own justice. Jack Vincennes enjoys mixing with celebrities, dressing well and making a quick buck.

Although the plot has some twists and turns, it is the atmosphere and the supporting characters that help this movie succeed so well. Bassinger won an Oscar for her role as a Veronica Lake look-a-like prostitute name Lynn. Danny Devito steals many scenes as a tabloid writer constantly on the look for dirt on celebrities. His catchphrase is, "Off the record, on the QT, and very hush hush."

Like all good films, L. A. Confidential has some great lines. One of my favorite's is when White falls for Lynn. "I'd like to see you again." He states. "Are you asking me for a date or an appointment?" she asks. Another line that you are not likely to hear too often comes from a coroner who just looked at the body of a male prostitute, "Stomach of the week. Unemployed actor had frankfurter, french fries, alcohol, and sperm. Hell of a last supper, don't you think?"

The film contains some funny moments as well as some violent ones. At one point Exley is trying to hard nose a mobster in a restaurant. He calls the girl with him a "Hooker who is cut to look like Lana Turner." The girl gets noticeably pissed. Vincennes interrupts to inform him that she is in fact Lana Turner. The last part of the film is a very tense shootout. In most movies you can guess who will live and who won't. L.A Confidential is directed in a way that you are never sure whose number may be up.

L.A Confidential is the greatest film noir ever made!

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