Review of The Last Picture Show (1971) by Doron T — 17 Dec 2007

There is extreme balance in The Last Picture Show, that makes it such a good watch. It's extremely nostalgic but its also very gritty and downright abrasive. there are times when it hits you over the head with symbolism and other were things are so subtle that I had watch the directors commentary to figure it out.

There cinematography also plays the same way. With some really subtle things but also some really direct scenes. The shot of Sam the lion reminiscing about his past just blows me away every time I watch it.

I also really enjoyed the casting on this film. With a bunch of unknowns at the time like Timothy Bottoms and getting established actors like Ben Johnson and Cloris Leachman who ended up Winning Oscars for their performances.