The Popes are a family who haven’t been able to use their real identity for years. In the late sixties, the parents set a weapons lab afire in an effort to hinder the government’s Vietnam war campaign. Ever since then, the Popes have been on the run with the authorities never far behind. Their survival is threatened when their eldest son falls in love with a girl, and announces his wish to live his life on his own terms.
Good coming-of-age movie, putting a teenager from a family that’s running away from the authorities in a classic teenager situation. The story unfolds nicely, each character has its well-defined role and is played very well. It all makes sense once you realize that this movie is directed by the great Sidney Lumet (Serpico, 12 Angry Men, Dog Day Afternoon, Murder on the Orient Express), and the end result is absolutely marvellous. Probably one of his best movies, and definitely one of the best performances from Judd Hirsch, the scene where he gets drunk and breaks out is absolutely masterful. Five popcorns for this masterpiece and it goes into the Movie Vault.
