The best period for films dealing with cops and overall gritty suspense had to have been the '70s. Almost every year there were certifiable "classics" being released!  "THE PARALLAX VIEW," "THREE DAYS OF THE CONDOR," "DOG DAY AFTERNOON" and "THE FRENCH CONNECTION," were all released in the '70s, and these were but three among many great films. Another great film was "SERPICO."

Al Pacino stars as the real-life cop, who did his best to bring respect and honor to the New York City Police Department, by keeping "clean."  Frank Serpico wants nothing more than to do a great job as a police officer, but that's not enough to please the rampantly corrupt cops in his precinct, and the mere fact that he won't accept bribes is enough to put his life in danger. It captures the mood of the '70s perfectly, with a well-founded sense of mistrust in the government, as Serpico elevates his concerns up the ladder, to no avail.

Everything about this film is first-rate!  Lumet has never been tighter as a director, and every supporting actor is at their best! "SERPICO" accomplishes what most films only aspire to, and it's deserving of the label, "CLASSIC." 

PARAMOUNT has preserved the film's 1.85:1 aspect ratio, with 16: 9 enhancement.  In spite of colors varying in quality from dull to rich, the image has great depth.  Contrast is excellent, allowing for deep blacks and grays, resulting in superb detain dark scenes. Fleshtones appear natural throughout.

PARAMOUNT has provided a Dolby Digital 5.1 remix, as well as mono(for purists)but we recommend the remix! It's great!  There are some subtle surround effects, enhancing the film's impact and the wonderful score is complimented through all speakers.  Dialogue is always intelligible and free from distortion. 

A brief interview with Lumet and producer Martin Bregman, is offered in "FROM REAL TO REEL."  Short but sweet, the two discuss casting and the adaptation to film process.

"INSIDE SERPICO" allows for some great "behind-the-scenes" footage.

"FAVORITE MOMENTS" is another brief segment in which Lumet and Bregman discuss some of their favorite scenes.

A photo gallery offers Lumet's insight relative to the scoring of the film, and it's also terrific!