Kevin Costner’s The Untouchables Thrives on Streaming Platforms

The classic gangster film The Untouchables has made a remarkable impact on streaming platforms, securing its place among the top ten hits on Paramount+ shortly after its release. As of October 17, 2023, the film has climbed to the ninth position in global viewing rankings, illustrating a growing appetite for classic cinema among audiences.

Directed by Brian De Palma, The Untouchables debuted in 1987 and quickly became a critical and commercial success. Set against the backdrop of 1930s Chicago, the film chronicles special agent Eliot Ness, played by Kevin Costner, as he strives to bring the infamous gangster Al Capone to justice. The film features a stellar cast, including Robert De Niro as Capone and Sean Connery as veteran cop James Malone. Connery’s performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, contributing to the film’s overall acclaim.

The film’s production was notable not just for its storytelling but also for its memorable score, composed by the legendary Ennio Morricone. His work added a sweeping emotional depth that complemented the film’s grand scope, often reminiscent of classic Westerns. Critics have praised the film’s climactic sequence, which pays homage to the iconic Russian film Battleship Potemkin, further solidifying its status as a cinematic masterpiece.

Despite being a gangster film, The Untouchables encompasses elements of various genres, including action and drama, making it a unique viewing experience. It currently holds an impressive 83% rating on the aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, where the consensus reads, “Slick on the surface but loaded with artful touches, Brian De Palma’s classical gangster thriller is a sharp look at period Chicago crime, featuring excellent performances from a top-notch cast.”

The success of The Untouchables undoubtedly played a significant role in launching Kevin Costner‘s career into superstardom. Following its release, he starred in several iconic films, including Field of Dreams and JFK. In 1990, he directed and starred in Dances with Wolves, which grossed over $400 million globally, further cementing his status in Hollywood.

Recently, Costner has seen a resurgence in popularity through the successful Paramount+ series Yellowstone. The ability to stream The Untouchables alongside his other works allows audiences to appreciate the breadth of his career, as well as the evolution of the gangster genre.

As the film continues to capture new viewers on streaming platforms, it serves as a reminder of the lasting power of classic cinema. For those interested in experiencing this iconic film, The Untouchables is currently available for streaming on Paramount+.