Miller's Crossing

The opening scene of Miller’s Crossing (1990) tells the viewer that the film to follow is about friendship, character, and ethics–and it is, but done in such a way that the first-time viewer cannot fully appreciate the ways in which its protagonist, Tom Reagan (Gabriel Byrne), acts as if these are his private religion: a set of beliefs so secret that other characters, the viewer, and even, at times, Tom himself cannot fully articulate. That sounds very highfalutin’, but the film is also a joyful homage to the kinds of books and movies the Coen brothers enjoy. It’s also their best, which is a difficult call to make with a resume as strong as theirs. So pour yourself a glass of bootleg whisky and give it a listen! Gabriel Byrne’s 2021 memoir Walking with Ghosts is a cut above celebrity memoirs and worth a read, even if all you know of him is Miller’s Crossing or Hereditary. Follow us on X and Letterboxd–and let us know what you’d like us to watch! Incredible bumper music is usually by John Deley. Also check out Dan’s new Substack site, Pages and Frames, for essays and short pieces about books and films.