Watch Crime and Punishment

Crime and Punishment is a gripping drama that explores the psyche of a young man who committed murder, and the ensuing moral and psychological turmoil that he faces as a result. The film is a modern interpretation of the famous novel by Fyodor Dostoevsky, and features an all-star cast including Crispin Glover, Vanessa Redgrave, and John Hurt.

The story follows the life of Raskolnikov, a poor and desperate student who lives in St. Petersburg. Raskolnikov is intelligent, but he is also deeply disturbed by the suffering he sees around him, and believes that some people are inherently superior to others. He becomes increasingly convinced that he is one of these superior beings, and that he has the right to commit a murder in order to achieve his own ends.

The film begins with Raskolnikov killing an old pawnbroker and her sister in their apartment. The crime is brutal and shocking, and the audience is left to wonder what kind of person could commit such a heinous act. Raskolnikov himself is tormented by guilt and fear, and struggles with the idea that he may be caught and punished for his crime.

As the story unfolds, Raskolnikov meets a variety of characters who challenge his beliefs and force him to confront the reality of his actions. These include a police detective named Porfiry Petrovich, who suspects Raskolnikov of the murder and begins to question him; a young prostitute named Sonya, who befriends Raskolnikov and tries to help him find redemption; and Raskolnikov's own mother and sister, who are horrified by what he has done.

The acting in the film is outstanding, with Crispin Glover delivering a powerful and nuanced performance as Raskolnikov. Vanessa Redgrave is equally impressive as Raskolnikov's landlady, who is deeply suspicious of him and keeps a close eye on his activities. John Hurt is also memorable as Porfiry Petrovich, the wily detective who seems to know more than he lets on.

The film is beautifully shot, with moody, atmospheric images that capture the bleakness and despair of Raskolnikov's world. The streets of St. Petersburg are depicted as dark and foreboding, while the interiors of Raskolnikov's apartment and the pawnbroker's house are cramped and claustrophobic.

One of the most impressive aspects of the film is the way in which it explores the psychological motivations behind Raskolnikov's crime. Rather than portraying him as a villain, the film shows him as a complex and troubled individual who is struggling to find his place in the world. The murder is not presented as a straightforward act of evil, but rather as a desperate and misguided attempt to achieve a sense of power and control.

Overall, Crime and Punishment is a thought-provoking and compelling film that will stay with viewers long after the end credits roll. It is a deeply human story that explores the nature of guilt, redemption, and the search for meaning in a world that can often seem cruel and unforgiving. Fans of psychological dramas and literary adaptations will not want to miss this powerful and moving film.

Crime and Punishment is a 2002 drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 2 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6.