Rampart - B+

Rated R, 105 minutes

Even if you're a fan of Woody Harrelson, the new police crime drama "Rampart," a fictional story set against the backdrop of actual events in early 1990s Los Angeles, isn't for everyone. Gritty, superbly acted and very dark, the overlooked "Rampart" is a gem of a movie that will be best known for Harrelson's stunning performance as a truly despicable human being and dirty cop. Harrelson is Officer Dave Brown, a Vietnam vet and a Rampart precinct cop who up until now has asserted his own level of justice on his own terms. But as he gets caught on tape for some dirty dealings, he begins a downward spiral that will either bring him down or bring out the worst in him. Downbeat but well-acted, "Rampart" is an unforgettable movie based on the performances alone. As the racist, sexist, aggressive, homophobic and very dirty cop, Harrelson gives one of his most memorable performances in a film directed and written by Owen Moverman, who wrote "The Messenger," for which Harrelson received an Oscar nomination two years ago as another unsympathetic character. Harrelson does an excellent job at capturing the character's vulnerability and dark side; a scene with veteran character actor Ned Beatty shows both sides of the character in a heartbeat (and unforgettable once you see what happens to Beatty). The story feels very familiar, but Harrelson, along with an all-star A list cast including Sigourney Weaver, Ben Foster, Ice Cube, Robin Wright, Steve Buscemi, Anne Heche and Cynthia Nixon all bring it to life. Harrelson's character is so despicable it's humorous at times but is ultimately depressing once you realize he's not likely to change anytime soon. "Rampart," as mentioned earlier, isn't for everyone, but it's certainly worth a look.