The Day Of The Locust
Nathanael West's novel about Hollywood decadence in the late '30s is a brilliant piece of filmmaking. A deeply insightful work that is powerful in its presentation, staggering in its vision. Director John Schlesinger (Midnight Cowboy, Marathon Man) is masterful in creating a world of platinum blondes, cockfights, glamour and broken dreams, and throughout, he plays on the edge of sexual and physical danger that finally erupts in the shocking climax. Oscar nominations went to Burgess Meredith and cinematographer Conrad Hall.
Member Reviews
Movie takes tarnish off Hollywood's "Golden Age" - TMFan1
This is a deeply unsettling movie. It's a view of Hollywood from the perspective of people who for the most part, have not succeeded in their Hollywood dreams. Everyone is deeply troubled - from Karen Black's needy bit player to Donald Sutherland's socially awkward but financially well off character. This is a dense movie with many interesting and complex people. There is a desperation in many of their actions. The acting is for the most part superb: Black and Sutherland are great - whatever happened to Karen Black? Burgess Meredith is simultaneously sad and hilarious. There is so much black humour here. Only William Atherton, in a lead role, dissapoints. We need more than frozen stares from him. The cinematography by Conrad Hall is beautiful. The ending; foreshadowed by a violent rooster fight, is very shocking. One of the most amazing things that I've ever seen in a movie.
Member Reviews
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Movie takes tarnish off Hollywood's "Golden Age" - TMFan1
This is a deeply unsettling movie. It's a view of Hollywood from the perspective of people who for the most part, have not succeeded in their Hollywood dreams. Everyone is deeply troubled - from Karen Black's needy bit player to Donald Sutherland's socially ...