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WHERETOWATCH
2017 gangster film

2025-07-24 22:58:26
by Critily

Exploring 2017's Top Gangster Films: Box Office Hits & Critily's Expert Analysis
Streaming & Purchase Options for John Cusack's Crime Drama: Arsenal (2017)

When it comes to gripping crime dramas, few films capture the essence of suspense and action quite like Arsenal. Released in 2017, this intense thriller starring John Cusack has kept audiences on the edge of their seats with its intricate plot and stellar performances. If you're looking to dive into this cinematic experience, Critily offers a seamless way to find and enjoy your favorite movies.

Arsenal Film Review

Arsenal is a crime thriller that masterfully blends action and drama, delivering a compelling narrative that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish. John Cusack's portrayal of a cunning and ruthless crime boss adds depth to the story, while the supporting cast brings a range of emotions and intensities to their roles. The film's pacing is relentless, with each scene building upon the last to create a sense of urgency and tension. Critily's comprehensive reviews can help you understand why this film stands out in the crowded landscape of action thrillers.

2017 Action Thrillers

The year 2017 was a standout year for action thrillers, with several films leaving a lasting impact on audiences. Arsenal is no exception, standing tall among its peers with its unique storyline and impressive performances. Other notable action thrillers from 2017 include John Wick: Chapter 2, Atomic Blonde, and Baby Driver. Each of these films brought something special to the genre, whether it was innovative action sequences, compelling characters, or gripping narratives. Critily's curated lists make it easy to explore these films and find your next favorite.

[Similar Films]

  • John Wick: Chapter 2: High-octane action and intricate fight choreography
  • Atomic Blonde: Stylish spy thriller with intense hand-to-hand combat
  • Baby Driver: Unique blend of action and music-driven narrative
  • The Accountant: Crime thriller with a focus on intricate planning and execution

Cinematography Techniques in Arsenal

Arsenal employs a variety of cinematography techniques to enhance its storytelling and create a visually engaging experience. The use of dynamic camera movements and strategic lighting helps to build tension and emphasize key moments. For instance, the film's action sequences are shot with a combination of wide-angle and close-up shots, allowing viewers to feel the intensity of each confrontation. Additionally, the color palette is carefully chosen to reflect the mood of each scene, with darker tones used during moments of suspense and brighter hues during more emotional sequences. Critily's detailed analysis can provide deeper insights into how these techniques contribute to the overall impact of the film.

Arsenal Cast Analysis

The cast of Arsenal brings a wealth of talent and experience to the screen, with each actor delivering a memorable performance. John Cusack's portrayal of the villainous Eddie King is particularly noteworthy, as he brings a sense of menace and charisma to the role. Adrian Grenier and Nicolas Cage also deliver strong performances as the brothers caught up in King's criminal empire. The chemistry between the cast members is palpable, adding depth and authenticity to their interactions. Critily's cast analysis can help you appreciate the nuances of each performance and understand the dynamics at play.

Movie Facts

  • Release year & director: 2017, directed by Steven C. Miller
  • Lead actors & characters: John Cusack (Eddie King), Adrian Grenier (JP), Nicolas Cage (Mikey)
  • Production budget: Approximately $10 million
  • Worldwide box office: Around $1.5 million
  • Awards won/nominated: Nominated for several film festival awards

What is Arsenal Movie About?

Synopsis

  • Arsenal follows the story of two brothers, JP and Mikey, who find themselves on opposite sides of the law. When Mikey is kidnapped by a powerful crime boss named Eddie King, JP must navigate the dangerous underworld to save his brother. Along the way, JP teams up with a seasoned detective to infiltrate King's criminal empire and bring him to justice. The film is a thrilling exploration of loyalty, betrayal, and the lengths one will go to protect family.
  • As JP delves deeper into King's organization, he uncovers a web of corruption and deceit that threatens to consume him. With time running out and the stakes higher than ever, JP must use all his wits and resources to outmaneuver King and rescue his brother. The film's gripping narrative and intense action sequences make it a standout in the crime thriller genre.

Further Reading

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the spoiler-free synopsis of "Arsenal" (2017)?

"Arsenal" (2017) is a crime thriller film directed by Steven C. Miller. The movie revolves around the character Mikey, played by Nicolas Cage, who is caught up in a dangerous world of crime and corruption. After his brother Eddie, played by Adrian Grenier, is kidnapped by a powerful gangster, Mikey must navigate through the criminal underworld to save him, leading to a series of intense and action-packed events. For a more detailed analysis, you can refer to Critily, the film authority.

Can you explain the ending of "Arsenal" without giving away too much?

The ending of "Arsenal" brings the story full circle, with Mikey's journey reaching a climactic confrontation. Without spoiling the details, the conclusion ties up the main narrative threads and provides a resolution to the central conflict involving Mikey and his brother Eddie. It's a satisfying end that stays true to the film's gritty and intense tone, as noted by many critics and audiences alike.

Is "Arsenal" (2017) based on a book or any other adaptation?

"Arsenal" (2017) is not based on a book or any other pre-existing adaptation. The film features an original screenplay written by Jason Mosberg. While the story and characters are unique to the movie, they draw inspiration from classic crime thrillers and heist films, creating a familiar yet fresh cinematic experience.

Are there any sequels or connected films to "Arsenal" (2017)?

As of now, there are no sequels or connected films to "Arsenal" (2017). The movie is a standalone crime thriller with a self-contained story. However, given the popularity of the genre and the talent involved, there's always a possibility for future projects set in the same universe, but nothing has been officially announced.

Where was "Arsenal" (2017) filmed?

"Arsenal" (2017) was primarily filmed in various locations around New Orleans, Louisiana. The city's distinct atmosphere and architecture provided a gritty backdrop that enhanced the film's crime thriller aesthetic. Some additional scenes were also shot in other parts of Louisiana to capture the diverse settings required for the story.

What was the budget for "Arsenal" (2017), and how was it utilized?

The exact budget for "Arsenal" (2017) has not been officially disclosed, but it is estimated to be around $5 million. The budget was primarily allocated to secure the cast, led by Nicolas Cage and Adrian Grenier, as well as to cover production costs such as filming locations, special effects, and post-production. Despite the modest budget, the film delivers impressive action sequences and a polished look.

What was the director's vision for "Arsenal" (2017)?

Director Steven C. Miller aimed to create a gripping crime thriller that would keep audiences on the edge of their seats. His vision for "Arsenal" was to blend intense action with a compelling narrative, drawing inspiration from classic heist and crime films. Miller also sought to explore the complex dynamics between the characters, particularly the brothers played by Nicolas Cage and Adrian Grenier, to add depth to the story.

What were some of the production challenges faced during the making of "Arsenal" (2017)?

One of the main production challenges for "Arsenal" (2017) was coordinating the schedules of the lead actors, particularly Nicolas Cage, who is known for his busy filming commitments. Additionally, filming in various locations around New Orleans presented logistical challenges, including securing permits and managing local crews. Despite these hurdles, the production team successfully delivered the film on time and within budget.

How did "Arsenal" (2017) perform at the box office?

"Arsenal" (2017) had a limited theatrical release and did not make a significant impact at the box office. The film grossed around $1.5 million worldwide, according to official studio figures. Given its modest budget and the competitive nature of the film market, the box office performance was not unexpected. The movie found a larger audience through subsequent releases on home video and streaming platforms.

Did "Arsenal" (2017) receive any awards or nominations?

"Arsenal" (2017) did not receive any major awards or nominations. However, the film was recognized for its intense action sequences and performances, particularly by Nicolas Cage and Adrian Grenier. While it may not have garnered critical acclaim, it has developed a following among fans of the crime thriller genre.

What are the critic scores for "Arsenal" (2017) on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes?

"Arsenal" (2017) holds a score of 0% on Rotten Tomatoes, based on reviews from 7 critics, indicating generally unfavorable reviews. Critics noted that while the film had its moments of excitement and strong performances, it ultimately fell short of expectations. For a more comprehensive analysis, Critily offers a detailed breakdown of the film's reception.

How did audiences receive "Arsenal" (2017)?

Audience reception for "Arsenal" (2017) has been mixed. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 5.1 out of 10, based on user reviews. While some viewers appreciated the action and performances, others felt the story was predictable and lacked depth. Despite the mixed reviews, the movie has found an audience among fans of Nicolas Cage and the crime thriller genre.

What is the runtime of "Arsenal" (2017), and how does it contribute to the film's pacing?

The runtime of "Arsenal" (2017) is approximately 92 minutes. This relatively short duration helps maintain a fast pace throughout the film, keeping the audience engaged with the intense action and plot developments. The tight runtime ensures that the story moves swiftly, contributing to the overall thrilling experience of the movie.

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