L.A. Confidential

A 1997 American crime thriller directed by Curtis Hanson, based on James Ellroy’s novel of the same name. Set in 1950s Los Angeles, the story follows three police officers with contrasting methods: the principled Ed Exley (Guy Pearce), the brutal Bud White (Russell Crowe), and the celebrity cop Jack Vincennes (Kevin Spacey). While investigating a mysterious murder at a café, they uncover a web of corruption and intrigue that threatens their lives and tests their moral boundaries. The film won two Academy Awards—for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Supporting Actress (Kim Basinger).