Step into the gritty world of 1930s Chicago with the intense opening scene of The Untouchables (1987), directed by Brian De Palma. This powerful introduction sets the tone for the classic crime drama, as we witness the ruthless violence of Al Capone’s reign and the explosive start of the battle between law and organized crime. Featuring Robert De Niro and Kevin Costner, The Untouchables is a must-watch for fans of gangster movies, crime thrillers, and unforgettable cinematic moments. Don’t miss this iconic first scene that kickstarts one of the greatest mob films of all time.
Movie Description: After building an empire with bootleg alcohol, legendary crime boss Al Capone rules Chicago with an iron fist. Though Prohibition Agent Eliot Ness attempts to take Capone down, even his best efforts fail due to widespread corruption within the Windy City's police force. Recruiting an elite group of lawmen who won't be swayed by bribes or fear, including Irish-American cop Jimmy Malone, Ness renews his determination to bring Capone to justice.
This transcript introduces the conflict between organized crime and federal law enforcement in Prohibition-era Chicago. It contrasts the charismatic, business-minded approach of a powerful bootlegger with the rigid, law-abiding determination of Special Agent Eliot Ness and his newly formed \"Untouchables\" unit tasked with stopping illegal liquor shipments.
An article, which I believe appeared in a newspaper, asked why,
since you are, or it would seem that you are, in effect, the mayor
of Chicago, you've not simply been appointed to that position.
Well, I'll tell you, you know it's touching.
Like a lot of things in life,
we laugh because it's funny and we laugh because it's true.
Some people say, reformers here say, put that man in jail.
What does he think he is doing?
What I hope I'm doing, and here's where
your English paper's got a point,
is I'm responding to the will of the people.
People are going to drink. You know that. I know that.
We all know that, and all I do is act on that.
And all this talk of bootlegging. What is bootlegging?
On the boat, it's bootlegging. On Lakeshore Drive, it's hospitality.
I'm a businessman.
And what of your reputation that you control
your business through violence?
That those that don't purchase your products are dealt with violently?
It's all right.
I grew up in a tough neighborhood,
and we used to say you can get further with a kind word and a gun
than you can with just a kind word.
And in that neighborhood, it might have been true.
And sometimes a reputation follows you.
There is violence in Chicago, of course,
but not by me and not by anybody I employ,
and I'll tell you why, because it's not good business.
There's
a
loan
down
here.
We're getting along fine.
Everything we need.
Green beer, you're peddling, just ain't any good.
Well, it's supposed to be good. It's supposed to be bought.
I'm not buying any.
Don't worry about it, Pops. We won't come back.
And how's everyone at your house today? Mama well?
She has a little cold.
Oh, she does, huh? Sorry to hear that.
But she'll be all right.
It's all right, sweetie.
Be careful crossing
the street.
Yes, sir.
Ness, Special Agent of the Treasury Department.
The city of Chicago, the federal government,
specifically the Department of the Treasury,
has inaugurated a special program to deal with the flow
of illegal liquor and the violence which it creates.
Mr. Ness, what does this program consist of?
Agents of the Treasury will be working in conjunction
with the Chicago police and other enforcement...
This is just another showpiece program, you know, keep the news...
What do you think about prohibition, Mr. Ness?
You're going to drink, Mr. Ness?
Mr. Ness, answer the question.
It's not just a showpiece,
and I'll tell you exactly how I feel about prohibition.
It is the law of the land.
You consider yourself a crusader, Mr. Ness? Is that it?
What special qualifications do you think you have for this job,
Mr. Ness?
Do you have any political ambitions, Mr. Ness?
Do you fear for your person?
All right, boys, I think that...
One more shot.
Mr. Ness, what are your real plans? What do you got coming up?
You'll just have to read about it in the paper.
Listen, let me write along with you and give you good play.
Can't help you.
Yes? Lieutenant Alderson, the Flying Squad.
Are you ready to meet the men?
Yes, I am.
One more thing
to say.
I've let many of
you take a drink.
What you've done before today is not my concern.
But now we must be pure, and I want you to stop.
It's not a question of whether or not it's a harmless drink.
It may very well be, but it's against the law, gentlemen.
And as we are going to enforce the law, we must do first by example.
Any questions?
The Department of the Treasury has had
a man undercover here for some time now.
We've received word from this informant that a very large shipment
of Canadian whiskey has arrived in Chicago.
So I hope that you've signed on for some action,
gentlemen, because you're going to get it.
Remember, the liquor cases
are marked with a red maple leaf.
Yes, sir. I have it.
Treasury agent is in a gray suit with a white scarf.
He is not to be arrested.
A gray suit and a white scarf.
I think that's about it. Are your men ready?
Yes, sir.
They are.
Good.
Smoking
if you got them.
How we doing?
Okay.
Part of the sandwich?
No, thank you, sir.
You
nervous?
No, sir.
Been with the unit long?
A short while.
I suppose we all want to do well.
Yes, sir.
Message
from my wife.
You married?
Yes, sir, I am.
Nice to be married, huh?
Put your hands in the air.
Get him up.
Drop it.
Get away from this.
