“While the goal of all movies is to entertain, the kind of film in which I believe goes one step further. It compels the spectator to examine one facet or another of his own conscience. It stimulates thought and sets the mental juices flowing.” — Sidney Lumet

Sidney Lumet passed away today at the age of 86 after a long bout with lymphoma. It would be no exaggeration to say that he was one of the greatest directors to ever set foot behind a camera. His list of classics is long and personal, spanning several decades in a variety of genres. He elevated cinema in America in the 70’s with such incredible films as Network, Serpico, and Dog Day Afternoon. My personal Lumet favorites, however, were all made in the 80’s: The Verdict, Prince Of The City, Running On Empty… these films are all excellent and extremely underrated.

RIP, Sidney Lumet: “May you be in heaven a full half-hour before the devil knows you’re dead.”