Review of Bonnie and Clyde (1967) by Kyle20Ellis — 18 Mar 2022

I am not sure whether I can add to the commentators who have talked about how good Bonnie and Clyde is, but I'll have a go. I didn't see Bonnie and Clyde until quite recently, and I can completely understand the film's reputation as it is a fantastic film.

It is very well made, with crisp cinematography and a superb period recreation. The violence here is not cartoony, it is very violent and shocking, as seen in the ending which I also found quite affecting.

Arthur Penn directs beautifully, there is a compelling story, a slick pace and a cracking script with some of the most important and sharpest dialogue in any film of the '60s. I was amazed by the last scene with Bonnie and her mother, it was a scene that is very chilling but also one that resonates emotionally too.

And the acting I have no qualms with. Gene Hackman is wonderful as is Estelle Parsons as a somewhat annoying character. Also Gene Wilder makes a brief but funny appearance. But the film belongs to Warren Beatty and Faye Dunnaway, who actually become the characters rather than just playing them.

Overall, a fantastic film and one of the best and most important of its decade.