City by the Sea Poster

City by the Sea 2002

★ 5.8379 votes108 min📅 2002-09-06

"When you're searching for a killer... the last suspect you want to see is your son."

In Michael Caton-Jones' gripping crime drama City by the Sea (2002), Robert De Niro delivers a powerhouse performance as Vincent LaMarca, a seasoned New York City detective whose carefully constructed life unravels when he uncovers that his own son h...

Director: Michael Caton-Jones

Cast

Robert De Niro
Robert De Niro
Vincent LaMarca
Frances McDormand
Frances McDormand
Michelle
James Franco
James Franco
Joey
Eliza Dushku
Eliza Dushku
Gina
William Forsythe
William Forsythe
Spyder
Patti LuPone
Patti LuPone
Maggie
Anson Mount
Anson Mount
Dave Simon
John Doman
John Doman
Henderson
Brian Tarantina
Brian Tarantina
Snake
Drena De Niro
Drena De Niro
Vanessa Hansen

Frequently Asked Questions

What is City by the Sea (2002) about?

City by the Sea follows Detective Vincent LaMarca, who has spent years distancing himself from his past, only to face the unthinkable when his estranged son becomes entangled in a life of crime. As LaMarca races to solve a string of violent cases, he's forced to confront his own failures as a father while grappling with the moral weight of his choices.

Who directed City by the Sea?

City by the Sea was directed by Michael Caton-Jones, known for his ability to blend intense character studies with gripping crime narratives. The film showcases his talent for exploring complex emotional terrain within high-stakes scenarios.

Who stars in City by the Sea?

The film features an all-star cast led by Robert De Niro, Frances McDormand, and James Franco, with standout performances from Eliza Dushku, William Forsythe, and Patti LuPone.

Is City by the Sea (2002) worth watching?

City by the Sea is a compelling watch for fans of crime dramas with emotional depth. De Niro's nuanced portrayal and the film's tense atmosphere make it a standout, though those expecting a straightforward thriller might find its slower moments challenging. It's a film that lingers long after the credits roll, especially for viewers who appreciate character-driven storytelling.

How long is City by the Sea?

City by the Sea has a runtime of 108 minutes, or 1 hour and 48 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

About City by the Sea (2002) — When a Cop's Son Turns to Crime, His Greatest Case Begins

In Michael Caton-Jones' gripping crime drama City by the Sea (2002), Robert De Niro delivers a powerhouse performance as Vincent LaMarca, a seasoned New York City detective whose carefully constructed life unravels when he uncovers that his own son has slipped into a dangerous criminal underworld. The film masterfully explores the tension between duty and family, as LaMarca's relentless pursuit of justice collides with the emotional turmoil of confronting his past. With a moody, atmospheric New York setting and a cast that includes Frances McDormand as his supportive yet weary partner, the story delves into themes of redemption, loyalty, and the inescapable bonds of lineage. As LaMarca navigates the moral complexities of his dual roles as protector and father, the film builds to a heart-wrenching climax that questions whether justice can ever truly coexist with personal sacrifice.

City by the Sea (2002) is a tense, character-driven thriller where the line between hunter and hunted blurs tragically. The ensemble cast, led by De Niro's commanding presence and James Franco's breakout role as his troubled son, crafts performances that are as raw as they are riveting. The film's gritty realism and atmospheric tension make it a standout in the crime genre, offering a poignant look at the cost of a life devoted to law enforcement when that life's darkest secret hits closer to home than anticipated.