One of Ray Liotta’s best work is in this movie. He is tough, gritty, and at the same time you can see his point of view and mostly sympathize with his actions. Jason Patric as Tellis is equally good as the ex-cop who came back to investigate the murder of an undercover narc and is partnered with the always-on-edge Liotta. The filming is fast and the colors are drab setting a perfect mood. I also loved the street chase scenes (on foot) where the camera is hand held and shaky putting the viewer right on the street following the cop and suspect. As far as characters go, Tellis’ wife seems like she is only there to bitch at him for going back to work. Other than that, she could be discarded.