Review of Looking for Mr. Goodbar (1977) by Matty S — 16 Aug 2013
A very masculine and limited point-of-view screenplay adapted from Judith Rossner's unforgettable novel, this film does carry quite a bit of merit. While the film never quite manages to capture the psychological complexities of the main character (or of the character referred to as "Mr. Goodbar") it is a fascinating glimpse into the 1970's Pre-AIDS singles scene of New York City. The urban and pscyho-sexual blight of the city is so stark the film could almost serve as a text book for loneliness and sexual addiction.
However, Richard Brooks' film comes across as a confused mess of misunderstanding of Feminism and homosexuality. Unlike Rossner's novel, which was loosely based on an actual murder, the movie often feels homophobic and misogynistic. If one is unfamiliar with the internal thinking of the original source material, the movie seems to be much less an historical cautionary tale as it does a study of a woman who the filmmaker feels must be punished.
When one takes pause and notices the fine performances of the lead actors - particularly Diane Keaton and Tuesday Weld - the viewer will pick up an almost "Time Capsule" worthy depiction of the confusion of the 1970's.
Though Keaton won the Oscar for her performance as Annie Hall -- her best work was in this film as an isolated elementary school teacher. Almost shocking in the graphic depiction of sexuality, drug use and the violence of the doomed main character, Richard Brooks' movie packs quite a punch.
Film Theory lovers will note that film directors and cinematographers have been attempting to copy the final horrific scene for years.
Another notable performance is that of Richard Gere before he became a name superstar.
Quite flawed, LOOKING FOR MR. GOODBAR is an unforgettably grim journey into the darkest corner of a moment in shared societal / cultural history. Most definitely a film of note deserving a "re-visit" if for only the acting and cinematography alone. The movie manages to hold a certain validity of an era and a New York City that many prefer to forget.
Warning: Not for the easily offended or faint of heart. Over 34 years old, LFMG is surprisingly intense, suspenseful and disturbing.
This review of Looking for Mr. Goodbar (1977) was written by Matty S on 16 Aug 2013.
Looking for Mr. Goodbar has generally received positive reviews.
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