A “masterpiece” crime thriller hailed by one fan as “highly underrated” is streaming now in the UK. The Untouchables (1987) is set in Prohibition-era Chicago and loosely based on police’s to bring down bootlegging kingpin Al Capone (played by Robert De Niro). Kevin Coster stars as Elliot Ness, a law enforcement officer who played a key role in the probe in real life, leading a crack team assembled to bring Capone to justice.

This includes veteran Irish cop Jim Malone (Sean Connery), harpshooter George Stone (Andy Garcia), and IRS agent Oscar Wallace (Charles Martin Smith). The film incorporates some historical figures but takes considerable creative license in its depiction of the the hunt for Capone. It was directed by Brian De Palma, known for classics like Scarface (1983) and Mission Impossible (1996).

The screenplay was written by David Mamet, losely based on Ness’s and Oscar Fraley’s book of the same name and some historical details.

Fans have taken to review aggregator sites to lavish the thriller with praise. One hailed it as a “masterpiece”, adding “it’s a shame they don’t make movies like this anymore”. “This is a movie to watch over and over in a lifetime,” they wrote.

“If you liked Scarface and Carlito’s Way, you’ll probably love The Untouchables”, calling it a “must see crime movie”.

Another called it “one one of the greatest gangster movies ever made”, adding that it’s “without a doubt the best ever that was shown from the good guys point of view”.

“From the moment it begins it captivates you, it makes you understand why movies are made,” they continued.

A third wrote: “Stunning gangster movie featuring a memorable collection of the most beautifully constructed cinematic scenes that will have you on the edge of your seat.

“The battle at the bridge, Capone’s round table celebration, a very moving death scene and of course the famous scene at the station steps all supported by a stonking Morricone score are just a few extraordinary highlights in this beautifully realised epic.

“Costner is a good stolid lead, surrounded by magnificent performances from Martin-Smiith, Garcia, De Niro and of course Oscar winning Connery. Bliss.”

A fourth said they believe it’s “highly underrated, as I was so surprised how good it actually was even when I have really never liked mob-movies so much”.

“It has superb role performances, excellent directing, a brilliant story and it is all in all, a great movie. A recommendation for everyone who haven’t seen it!”

The film has a 15 certificate and contains strong violence and strong language, so viewer discretion is advised.

The Untouchables returned to Netflix in the UK on Friday, February 27. It’s also available to stream, rent, or buy on other platforms.