Review of The Cross and the Switchblade (1970) by Richard W — 25 Mar 2008
Most of the reviews of this movie are by Christians who like the "Jesus Loves You" message it contains. I found that cloying and annoying. The last 10 minutes the movie totally devolves into Pat Boone preaching.
It is so over the top it has excellent parody value. The first 90 minutes are excellent however in a campy "oh please" sort of way. You have the classic Hollywood 1960s version of New York Gangs, stylish matching red patent leather jackets, etc.
You have some of the most ridiculous "black" dialog ever put to screen. Did Pat Boone himself write this? The closest any other movie comes to this is The Warriors - same era, same absud costumes.
It does have some harrrowing shots of junkie life and better than average ghetto sets. All in all well worth the time to see if you are a fan of campy gang movies. Rated "R" for racist stereotypes abounding (black pusher man is particularly well played here.
) As a parody of itself three or maybe even four stars, as a serious movie 2. As a Christian recruiting tool, for me, one star.
This review of The Cross and the Switchblade (1970) was written by Richard W on 25 Mar 2008.
The Cross and the Switchblade has generally received positive reviews.
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