Blow Out (Criterion)
The Criterion Collection
In the enthralling Blow Out, brilliantly crafted by Brian De Palma, John Travolta gives one of his greatest performances, as Jack, a movie sound-effects man who believes he has accidentally recorded a political assassination. He enlists the help of Sally (Carrie's Nancy Allen), a possible eyewitness to the crime who may be in danger herself, to uncover the truth. With its jolting stylistic flourishes, intricate plot, profoundly felt characterizations, and gritty evocation of early-1980s Philadelphia, Blow Out is an American paranoia thriller unlike any other, as well as a devilish reflection on the act of moviemaking.
Member Reviews
Slick DePalma Mystery-Thriller - newdaysof
Brian DePalma is one of those directors with a certain style and flair that is unique. Most of his films have the same elements: murder-mystery, psychotic killer, georgous women in flimsly outfits or nude being stalked and brutally killed, fast-paced action and many twists and turns, good camerawork - much of it at night and cool soundtrack. This film has all of those elements and more.
Although somewhat dated, the film has a number of interesting concepts: sound recording and mixing, photo images made into film then synced with sound, all geared towards solving a murder-conspiracy. The only complaint I have about the movie is much of the violence is against young women and is disturbing.
John Travolta plays one of his first serious roles after playing Vinni Barbarino on Welcome Back Kotter. He is young, cool, hip, sexy and smart. Nancy Allen plays the ditzy broad who gets tangled up in the murder-mystery along with Travolta's character. There are a number of other interesting characters, the dialogue is fast and engrossing as is the entire film. Much of the camerawork is dazzling and slick.
Member Reviews
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Slick DePalma Mystery-Thriller - newdaysof
Brian DePalma is one of those directors with a certain style and flair that is unique. Most of his films have the same elements: murder-mystery, psychotic killer, georgous women in flimsly outfits or nude being stalked and brutally killed, fast-paced action ...