Analyze This
dir. Harold Ramis · 1999
Feature
Organized Crime
Mood
Comedic
Look
bright, polished cinematography with a classic New York backdrop
Structure
episodic with a focus on character interactions
Plot
Countless wiseguy films are spoofed in this film that centers on the neuroses and angst of a powerful Mafia racketeer who suffers from panic attacks. When Paul Vitti needs help dealing with his role in the "family," unlucky shrink Dr. Ben Sobel is given just days to resolve Vitti's emotional crisis and turn him into a happy, well-adjusted gangster.
Why watch
"Analyze This" cleverly blends the worlds of organized crime and psychological introspection, delivering a comedic exploration of a mobster's existential crisis. With sharp wit and a unique premise, it invites viewers to laugh at the absurdities of power and vulnerability in the criminal underworld.
Cultural context
1990s mafia film resurgencethe rise of therapy culturecomedic takes on masculinityNew York City as a character