On December 1, the Kevin Costner gangster epic The Untouchables will become available for free streaming on Tubi. This 1987 crime drama, directed by Brian De Palma, stars Costner as legendary Agent Eliot Ness leading a determined law enforcement team against notorious mob boss Al Capone during Prohibition.
The Making and Impact of The Untouchables
Released in 1987 at the height of Brian De Palma’s exploration of organized crime stories, The Untouchables blends true events with dramatized fiction. The screenplay, penned by David Mamet, drew inspiration from Oscar Fraley’s book about Eliot Ness and his team’s attempts to dismantle Al Capone’s criminal empire. Costner portrayed Ness, whose creation of the titular Untouchables squad marked a pivotal moment in law enforcement’s battle against the Mafia.
Alongside Costner, the film showcased memorable performances from Robert De Niro as Al Capone, Sean Connery as Jim Malone, Charles Martin Smith, and Andy García. With a production cost of $25 million, the movie grossed over $106 million at the box office, signaling a strong commercial success. It also garnered critical acclaim, receiving four Academy Award nominations. Sean Connery won Best Supporting Actor for his role, cementing the film’s legacy among gangster classics.
Kevin Costner’s Current Career Path and Public Challenges
Despite his enduring appeal as a Western and crime genre figure, Kevin Costner has faced tense times recently, particularly surrounding controversies linked to the hit series Yellowstone. Public disputes, including a notably fractious relationship with creator Taylor Sheridan, have kept Costner somewhat withdrawn from the spotlight. His ambitious four-part Western project, Horizon: An American Saga, met setbacks after a disappointing launch of its first installment, prompting Costner to reconsider the series’ direction even though the second film is already completed.
Nonetheless, fans still have access to many of Costner’s celebrated performances. The upcoming streaming release of The Untouchables offers an opportunity to revisit one of his most iconic roles outside the cowboy hat, highlighting his versatility in a tense and gripping narrative of crime and justice.
Notable Cast Members and Their Roles
Kevin Costner stars as Eliot Ness, the determined federal agent leading the fight against organized crime. Sean Connery plays Jim Malone, a seasoned officer who mentors Ness and provides crucial streetwise insight. The ensemble also includes Robert De Niro as Al Capone, whose portrayal of the infamous gangster is chilling and commanding. Other key players such as Andy García and Charles Martin Smith contribute to the layered depiction of this historic story.
“We’re trying to bring justice to a corrupt world during a chaotic time.” – Eliot Ness, character role in The Untouchables
“The Untouchables wasn’t just a crime story; it was about standing up against overwhelming odds.” – Sean Connery, Actor
The Lasting Importance of This Release
As the home viewing landscape continues to expand, streaming classic films like The Untouchables allows a new generation to experience acclaimed cinematic works without cost. Given Kevin Costner’s evolving career and recent difficulties, this release serves as a reminder of his significant impact in key film genres spanning westerns and gangster epics. The film’s blend of historical context, star power, and critical recognition ensures it remains a relevant point of reference for fans and newcomers alike.
Looking forward, Costner’s navigation of both his personal and professional challenges will be closely watched by audiences. Meanwhile, the accessibility of his past iconic roles helps maintain his visibility and influence in popular culture.
