A Gritty Cop Drama in a Woke Era
It’s quite surprising to see a movie like Dragged Across Concrete emerge in a time when the public’s perception of law enforcement is increasingly critical. The film’s dialogue can be rough and challenging to follow, but the story of Detectives Ridgeman and Lurisetti, played by Mel Gibson and Vince Vaughn, respectively, is an intriguing one. These two flawed cops navigate a world of moral ambiguity, making for a darkly humorous buddy cop movie that occasionally loses its focus.
Interwoven Stories and Personal Struggles
The film juggles multiple storylines, beginning with the character of Henry, who returns home from prison to find his mother has turned to prostitution. Meanwhile, Ridgeman and Lurisetti are suspended without pay for six weeks after using excessive force during a drug bust, an incident caught on video by a bystander. This suspension puts both detectives in a financial bind, with Ridgeman’s wife suffering from MS and their daughter being assaulted, while Lurisetti plans to propose to his girlfriend and needs to buy an engagement ring.
A Desperate Plan and Unlikely Alliances
With their backs against the wall, Ridgeman concocts a plan to steal gold bullion from a dangerous bank robber and enlists Lurisetti’s help. Although Lurisetti is hesitant due to his moral compass, he ultimately agrees to participate. As the plot unfolds, it’s revealed that Henry and his friend Biscuit are working for the bank robbers, creating an unexpected connection between the characters. Despite noticing the detectives tailing the getaway van, Henry remains silent, setting the stage for a tense confrontation.
A Violent Showdown and Moral Questions
The film’s climax is a messy and violent affair, with the bank robbers taking a hostage who ultimately kills Lurisetti before being shot by Ridgeman. After the dust settles, Ridgeman is confronted by Henry, who managed to escape the carnage. The movie explores themes of trust and racial tension between the characters, as well as the moral dilemmas faced by dirty cops trying to provide for their loved ones. In the end, Henry does the right thing by sharing the stolen gold with Ridgeman’s family, allowing them to move to a safer location.
A Flawed but Intriguing Film
While Dragged Across Concrete may not be a groundbreaking masterpiece, it offers an engaging story with complex characters and moral dilemmas. The dialogue may be a weak point, but the film’s exploration of dirty cops and the lengths they’ll go to for their families is a compelling aspect. Overall, it’s a gritty cop drama that’s worth a watch for fans of the genre.
Follow Us
