Review of Dirty Harry (1971) by Steve S — 10 Sep 2012

Controversial, gritty, but effective and thrilling 70's cop drama. Clint Eastwood in his iconic role as the hard-boiled Harry Callahan is easily one of the most recognizable movie characters of the 70's.

Disgusted by what seems to be a never ending contingent of scumbags and lunatics threatening to overtake San Fransisco Harry utilizes his own methods to meat out his unique brand of justice. Certainly there is no denying the undercurrent of reactionary and jingoistic subtext that exudes from the film.

We aren't afforded a sufficient explanation as to what in his background has caused him to become such an hardened authoritarian. Nonetheless there are plenty of startling action packed sequences to distract you from becoming to involved in inner lives of the characters, and some absolutely gorgeous cinematography of the San Fransisco Bay area.