Most critics respond favourably to Abel Ferrara’s grim study of a corrupt, drug-addicted policeman, with praise concentrated on Harvey Keitel’s exposed, anguished performance. The reviews repeatedly describe his sincerity as the force that keeps the character’s degradation compelling. Ferrara’s feel for urban decay also earns approval, particularly the vivid locations and oppressive atmosphere. For most critics, the explicit sex, violence and drug use serve a serious examination of faith and possible redemption.
The division concerns how much weight those religious themes can bear. The Independent finds the claims to redemption hollow and pretentious, while still admiring Ferrara’s handling of mood and Keitel’s performance. Empire is strongly supportive but calls the study overbearing, showing that discomfort with its excesses extends beyond the negative verdict. The spread is broad, then, but the central performance remains common ground even where belief in the film’s larger purpose gives way.