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The film industry, much like a shimmering diamond, has many facets. However, few have been as intriguing and occasionally controversial as the facet shaped by director William Friedkin. A maverick even amidst the revolutionary filmmakers of the New Hollywood era of the 1970s, Friedkin carved a unique niche.
He wove a tapestry of raw thrillers and social narratives that didn't just evoke reactions but demanded them, often inviting the very controversies they hinted at.
List of Proactive Movies
- "The Boys in the Band" (1970): Streaming on Amazon, Apple TV, and Vudu, this movie gives a candid peek into the world of gay men, a rarity for its time.
Friedkin’s portrayal, an adaptation of Mart Crowley’s stage play, offers a sympathetic lens through which we witness the multifaceted dynamics of a birthday party, revealing deep-seated insecurities and alienation.
- "The French Connection" (1971): This Oscar-winning masterpiece, available on Amazon, Apple TV, and Vudu, plunges into the dark underbelly of New York.
Through the relentless pursuit of a detective (a stellar Gene Hackman), we are thrust into a high-octane chase against a heroin smuggling operation.
- "The Exorcist" (1973): On streaming platforms like Amazon, Apple TV, Google Play, and Vudu, Friedkin's demonic tale is not just about the terror of possession but also about the unwavering maternal love combating the menacing evil.
- "Sorcerer" (1977): This cinematic gem, overshadowed by Star Wars upon its release, now stands tall among Friedkin's repertoire.
It is a suspense-filled journey of outlaws navigating treacherous terrains, available on Amazon and Apple TV.
- "Cruising" (1980): A polarizing depiction of New York's gay community, this film, available on multiple platforms, follows a detective's deep dive into the city’s leather scene to catch a serial killer.
- "Blue Chips" (1994): Streaming on Amazon Prime and Paramount+, Friedkin probes into the shady realm of college basketball, offering a dynamic portrayal of the sport's darker truths.
- "The Hunted" (2003): On Max and other platforms, Friedkin introduces us to a riveting cat-and-mouse chase between a rogue soldier and his former mentor, painting a tale of betrayal and redemption.
- "Bug" (2007): This collaboration with playwright Tracy Letts, available on platforms like Pluto TV, Amazon, and Apple TV, spirals into paranoia, underscoring the vulnerabilities and fears of two souls in an intense, claustrophobic setting.
A plot that not only challenges morality but also the lengths to which desperation can drive a man. William Friedkin's movies aren’t mere narratives; they are immersive experiences, each a distinct chapter in the legacy of a cinematic genius.
