State of Grace 1990

Sheila Benson, Los Angeles Times: Every indulgence, including a two hour and 14 minute running time, is on display. Read more

Janet Maslin, New York Times: Mr. Oldman gives an electrifying performance that both establishes a tragic, terrifying character and explains why that character's world is such a perilous place. Read more

Owen Gleiberman, Entertainment Weekly: Joanou shows signs of becoming a real director. But they're still only signs. Read more

Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times: What's best about "State of Grace" is what's unique to it - the twisted vision of the Oldman character, who lives in a world of evil and betrayal and has somehow thought himself around to the notion that he is doing the right thing. Read more

Derek Adams, Time Out: A hugely impressive piece of work for a young director previously known for his documentary U2 Rattle and Hum. Read more

Variety Staff, Variety: A handsomely produced, mostly riveting, but ultimately overlong and overindulgent gangster picture. Read more

Rita Kempley, Washington Post: Penn's affecting performance, a strong and silent struggle with his warring emotions, is hard pressed to offset Oldman's shrill shenanigans. Read more