Review of Coogan's Bluff (1968) by Art S — 05 Mar 2016
In a sort of prelude to Dirty Harry (1971), Don Siegel directs Clint Eastwood as a steely Arizona deputy sheriff come to the Big Apple to extradite a killer. As was his m. o., Eastwood breaks all the rules, roughing up suspects (and others) and using whatever means were available (including sex) to get his way.
The expected fish-out-of-water gags are soon dispensed with in favour of straightforward action (fights and chases). Siegel's direction is no frills but it is effective and concise. Lee J. Cobb is good in support as a harried NYC precinct chief (with other acting here just ordinary), but basically Eastwood's star quality holds the film together.
Somehow, though, I just can't find it in my heart to root for a reactionary hero.
This review of Coogan's Bluff (1968) was written by Art S on 05 Mar 2016.
Coogan's Bluff has generally received mixed reviews.
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