On S List of Movie Reviews

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Scarecrow (1973)

Rate: 9
Viewed: 11/14, 4/25

ScaCr
11/14: In the prime of their Hollywood careers, Gene Hackman and Al Pacino starred together in a rare film entitled Scarecrow.

Both are at top of their game and show why they're among a handful of best actors alive. In many films, you won't hear lines this good as supplied by Garry Michael White's screenplay. Each presents a brilliant character study of a dumb, flawed man: one carrying around a white box with a cheap lamp inside and the other wanting to open up a car wash for less than three grand.

They go on a hobo trek from California to Detroit while having lively conversations and meet old acquaintances but manage to find trouble in the stupidest ways possible. Both are met with a tragic end which sums up the impact of their brief friendship. The message of the title is to keep up a positive outlook, no matter how dire the situation is. Yeah, it does sound like a repeat of Midnight Cowboy.

All in all, Scarecrow is a top ten picture of Gene Hackman's and Al Pacino's careers.

4/25: Talk about two actors making something out of nothing.

Scarecrow mostly reminds me of Midnight Cowboy. Everybody is dumb but has character. First half is dominated by Gene Hackman, and then, Al Pacino takes over during the second half. They both finish the film at a high but somber note. It's about relationships and earning respect. Yes, this one takes a while to get there, but once it does, you'll be hooked.

All in all, Scarecrow is among the most overlooked films of all time.