When a novel is adapted to the screen, the question invariably arises: "Is the movie as good as the book?" In the case of L.A. Confidential, the new film based on a James Ellroy police procedural, the answer is complicated. The movie is as good as the book. Better, in fact. But the engrossing film also points out that, despite his often EXCLAMATORY style, Ellroy is a master of characterization and emotional intensity.

Harold Check