Bugsy (1991) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Bugsy is a 1991 biographical crime drama directed by Barry Levinson, starring Warren Beatty as notorious gangster Benjamin “Bugsy” Siegel. The film, set in the 1940s, offers a stylized and compelling look at Siegel’s life and his instrumental role in the creation of modern-day Las Vegas. With a star-studded cast that includes Annette Bening, Harvey Keitel, and Ben Kingsley, Bugsy is a blend of crime, ambition, and romance, set against the backdrop of the American mafia’s rise to power.
Nominated for ten Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Bugsy was praised for its sharp screenplay, stunning performances, and its lush cinematography, all of which combined to create a nuanced portrait of one of the most infamous figures in American history. This article delves into the movie’s plot, critical reception, and where to stream or rent Bugsy online in the U.S.
Plot Summary: The Rise and Fall of Benjamin “Bugsy” Siegel
Bugsy follows the life of Benjamin Siegel (Warren Beatty), a charismatic and ambitious gangster with grand dreams. The film begins in New York City, where Siegel is an up-and-coming mobster known for his ruthlessness, good looks, and taste for luxury. However, when Siegel is sent to Los Angeles to expand the mafia’s operations on the West Coast, he becomes infatuated not only with the glamorous world of Hollywood but also with aspiring actress Virginia Hill (Annette Bening).
While in Los Angeles, Siegel becomes captivated by the idea of transforming the barren Nevada desert into a bustling casino and entertainment hub. His vision culminates in the creation of the Flamingo Hotel, which would lay the foundation for what would later become the Las Vegas Strip. However, Siegel’s lavish spending, erratic behavior, and his deepening relationship with Virginia lead him down a dangerous path that ultimately threatens both his career and his life.
The movie explores Siegel’s character in depth—his passion, his flaws, and his obsession with building an empire. The film’s portrayal of his dream to make Las Vegas the gambling capital of the world is tinged with both idealism and tragic consequences, as his vision begins to crumble under the weight of mafia pressure and financial mismanagement.
Warren Beatty and Annette Bening: A Dynamic On-Screen Pairing
Warren Beatty delivers a mesmerizing performance as Bugsy Siegel, capturing both the charm and volatility of the gangster. Beatty portrays Siegel as a man who is equal parts visionary and violent criminal, constantly torn between his desire for legitimacy and his inability to escape his criminal past. His portrayal is both glamorous and tragic, as the film shows Siegel’s inability to manage his dreams within the confines of reality.
Annette Bening’s portrayal of Virginia Hill is equally captivating. As Siegel’s love interest, Hill is portrayed as a sharp, independent woman who is just as dangerous as the men she surrounds herself with. The chemistry between Beatty and Bening is electric, contributing to the intensity and emotional core of the film. Their dynamic elevates Bugsy from a standard gangster movie to a complex love story set in a world of crime.
Themes: Ambition, Obsession, and the American Dream
At its core, Bugsy is a film about ambition and obsession. Siegel’s dream to build a glamorous casino in the middle of the desert is symbolic of the American Dream itself—an idea born out of ambition and fueled by risk. However, Bugsy also serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of unchecked ambition. Siegel’s refusal to listen to reason, coupled with his tendency for violence and unpredictability, leads to his downfall.
The movie also explores the complex relationship between crime and power. Siegel’s rise within the mafia and his growing influence in Hollywood show the interplay between organized crime and legitimate business, blurring the lines between law and corruption. Siegel’s belief that he can use his criminal empire to create something legitimate—the birth of Las Vegas—creates a tension that runs throughout the film.
Cinematography and Direction: A Stylish Portrait of 1940s Hollywood
Barry Levinson’s direction in Bugsy is both stylish and evocative, capturing the glitz and glamour of 1940s Los Angeles and Las Vegas. The film’s cinematography, helmed by Allen Daviau, paints a rich picture of the era, from the sleek, art-deco interiors of Hollywood nightclubs to the stark, empty desert landscapes that would eventually become Las Vegas.
The film’s aesthetic is crucial to its success, giving the viewer a sense of time and place that feels both nostalgic and glamorous. The costumes, set design, and period-accurate details add to the immersion, making Bugsy as much a historical drama as a character study.
Critical Reception: Acclaimed Performances and Direction
Bugsy was met with widespread critical acclaim upon its release, with particular praise given to the performances of Warren Beatty and Annette Bening. Beatty’s portrayal of Bugsy Siegel earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor, while Bening’s performance also received praise for its depth and complexity. The film received a total of 10 Academy Award nominations, winning two for Best Art Direction and Best Costume Design.
Roger Ebert, the famous film critic, praised the film for its style and for Warren Beatty’s performance, describing Bugsy as “a movie about a dreamer who was also a killer.” Many other critics echoed this sentiment, lauding the film’s ability to balance the allure of Siegel’s vision with the dark reality of his criminal life.
While the film may not be as well-remembered today as some other gangster classics like Goodfellas or The Godfather, it remains a standout in the genre for its focus on character, ambition, and the glamorization of crime.
Where to Watch Bugsy Online in the U.S.
For those interested in watching Bugsy, the movie is available on several streaming platforms for rental or purchase in the U.S.
1. Amazon Prime Video
Bugsy is available for both rental and purchase on Amazon Prime Video. You can choose between SD and HD formats, making it accessible to a wide range of viewers.
- Rental Price: Around $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $12.99
- Availability: Available in SD and HD
- Devices: Watch on Fire TV, Roku, smart TVs, mobile devices, and more.
2. Apple TV (iTunes)
For Apple users, Bugsy is available on Apple TV for rental or purchase. Apple offers high-definition streaming, making it a great option for watching on modern displays.
- Rental Price: Around $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $14.99
- Devices: Available on iPhones, iPads, Apple TVs, and Macs.
3. Google Play Movies & TV
Google Play Movies & TV offers Bugsy for rental and purchase. The platform is accessible on a variety of devices, making it convenient for Android users.
- Rental Price: Around $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $12.99
- Availability: Available in HD
- Devices: Android devices, smart TVs, Chromecast, and more.
4. Vudu
Vudu is another platform where you can rent or buy Bugsy. With no subscription required, it’s a great option for one-time rentals.
- Rental Price: Around $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $9.99
- Devices: Available on Roku, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and mobile devices.
5. YouTube Movies
YouTube Movies offers Bugsy for rental and purchase. Accessible on any device that supports YouTube, it’s a flexible option for viewing the film.
- Rental Price: Around $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $12.99
- Devices: Stream on smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and more.
Conclusion: A Glamorous and Tragic Look at a Gangster’s Dream
Bugsy stands out in the gangster genre for its focus on the psychology and ambitions of its titular character. Warren Beatty’s portrayal of Bugsy Siegel brings nuance to a man torn between his grand vision and the violent world of organized crime. The film’s lavish aesthetic and strong performances from its cast make it a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and historical biopics.
With its focus on the creation of Las Vegas and Siegel’s personal struggles, Bugsy is more than just a gangster movie—it’s a meditation on ambition, obsession, and the cost of pursuing a dream at all costs. Whether you’re drawn to the film for its performances, its historical context, or its visual flair, Bugsy remains an engaging and entertaining portrait of one of America’s most notorious criminals.
