Review of Cockfighter (1974) by Jan D — 27 Jan 2008
Based on Charles Willeford's 1962 novel of the same name. "Cockfighter" is Warren Oates and Monte Hellman's finest collaboration. Frank Mansfield (Warren Oates) is obsessed with cockfigthing. He has taken a vow of silence until he wins the 'Cockfighter of the Year' medal and regains his lost reputation. The reason for his silence is simple, Frank used to be a drunk and a loudmouth who lost everything he owned (including his girlfriend) to his gambling pal Jack Burke (Harry Dean Stanton). This movie isn't for the faint of heart, the cockfighting scenes are mostly real and many animal lovers won't be able to stomach it. For those of us who do though, this is an amazing movie. Warren Oates is spectacular in it, and it's amazing how much authenticity and depth he brings to the role without speaking much at all.
This is a strangely beautiful film and a treasure chest for lovers of 70s cinema and Warren Oates. One of my personal favorites!
This review of Cockfighter (1974) was written by Jan D on 27 Jan 2008.
Cockfighter has generally received positive reviews.
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