True Confessions

A 1981 American neo-noir crime drama film directed by Ulu Grosbard, with a screenplay by Joan Didion and John Gregory Dunne, based on Dunne's novel of the same name. Set in 1948 Los Angeles, the film centers on the Spellacy brothers: younger brother Monsignor Desmond Spellacy (Robert De Niro), a rising figure in the Catholic archdiocese, and older brother Detective Tom Spellacy (Robert Duvall), who is investigating the brutal murder of a young woman named Lois Fazenda. Desmond is deeply involved in expanding church projects, collaborating with influential construction magnate Jack Amsterdam (Charles Durning), whose methods are ethically questionable. As Tom delves into the murder case, he uncovers connections between the crime, the city's underworld of prostitution, and corruption that implicates both the police force and the church. Tensions between the brothers escalate as Tom's pursuit of justice threatens Desmond's reputation and the integrity of the archdiocese. The film explores themes of morality, faith, corruption, and familial bonds, illustrating how personal and professional lives intertwine within a complex web of deceit and betrayal. Notable supporting performances include Burgess Meredith as Monsignor Sevelian, Desmond's mentor, and Cyril Cusack as the Cardinal, a high-ranking church official. "True Confessions" received positive reviews from critics for its thoughtful screenplay and strong performances, particularly the dynamic between De Niro and Duvall, but achieved moderate commercial success, grossing $12.9 million against a $10 million budget.