Cronenberg makes a Russian Godfather and it's superb, surprisingly.
Unlike the unlikeable A History of Violence, there's real style and substance here. The violence is disturbing as usual (for Cronenberg), but it all makes sense and gives us a peek into a completely alien and unappealing world in a utterly engrossing way.
Watts is only present as a plot device, which is a bit disappointing. Mortensen is perfection and Cassel adds a surprising amount to the film. But the real gem is Armin Mueller-Stahl, who is simultaneously warm and fuzzy while being evil incarnate.
The knife fight is one of the best I've seen on film, although the choice of linoleum knives is bizarre.
Two thumbs up and a Pass.
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