SPOILER ALERT: This series of posts is spoiler-heavy. But, seriously, the movie is from 1997!!! If you haven’t watched it by now…
Some of the best lines in L.A. Confidential are understatements. Rather than an overwrought line heavy on corn, understated dialogue is often cooler and more clever.
As a writer, there is certainly a temptation to avoid understatement. Will the reader pick up on the subtleties and nuances of an understated line? Will the intent of the line be understood?
It is important, however, to trust the intelligence of the reader. It’s also important to recognise that the context in which the line is spoken will help provide meaning.
Understatement also rewards repeat viewings or reading. A line foreshadowing a later event or realisation will make sense once the audience has the extra information. By understating the line, it avoids tipping the reader off to what is to come in the story, but gives added pleasure to the reader when they finally see how the line fits into the story.
It seems to me, too, that understating a line gives an actor more to work with. There is more subtext in an understated line. The sentiments are not overwrought or on the nose.
Following are a couple of examples of understated lines in L.A. Confidential, and why I think the lines work well.
Page 46/ 47
BUD
Where’s the other guy? Buzz.
PATCHETT
He no longer works for me.
We don’t know it yet, but the subject of Patchett’s dialogue no longer works for him because he’s dead. It is a line that makes sense in hindsight. Patchett speaks the truth, but there is far more to the statement than a surface understanding would indicate.
Page 53/54
LYNN
You’re the first man in five years who didn’t tell me I look like Veronica Lake inside of a minute.
BUD
You look better than Veronica Lake. Now, PIERCE PATCHETT.
Bud is totally smitten with Lynn, hence his admission that she looks better than Veronica. It’s a sweet line from a hardened, jaded cop. His quick return to business (Now, Pierce Patchett) shows his commitment to his job.