Based on the true story of would-be Brooklyn bank robbers John Wojtowicz and Salvatore Naturile. Sonny and Sal attempt a bank heist which quickly turns sour and escalates into a hostage situation and stand-off with the police. As Sonny's motives for the robbery are slowly revealed and things become more complicated, the heist turns into a media circus.

It's a rewarding, richly detailed film -- not only the best work Sidney Lumet has ever done but also possibly the most perceptive movie ever made on the intriguing subject of New York City's collapse.
Martin Knelman
Globe and Mail