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To Live and Die in L.A. (1985)
Rate:
9
Viewed:
10/11, 5/20
10/11:
William Friedkin sure knows how to make exciting movies.
Although I'm not a huge fan of The French Connection,
To Live and Die in L.A. is a more satisfying cinematic experience for me. It's almost like a Michael Mann
picture as in Miami Vice meets the west coast. There are many compelling elements, and the biggest of them
all is William Petersen's supercharged performance. Of course, Michael Mann saw so much talent that he had to have
him for Manhunter.
Then, there's the young Willem Dafoe in a brilliant, chilling role as Eric Masters. He'll go on to star in the next
film called Platoon and be Oscar-nominated. Because of him and William Petersen,
To Live and Die in L.A. is one of the best policiers made. Remember they, and others such as Steve
James, John Turturro, and Darlanne Fluegel, weren't yet established stars which is amazing enough.
When Richard Chance's head was blown away, it caught me off guard. I've got to say that I feel bad about him.
Honestly, the movie should've ended right there to secure a rating of '10' from me. Who cares about the rest of
the way?
All in all, To Live and Die in L.A. is among William Friedkin's best films.
5/20:
I wish William Petersen did more films like To Live and Die in L.A. and
Manhunter, but for some reason, he just stopped and switched genres.
It's his first film in a leading role, and he's brilliant. So is Willem Dafoe as Eric Masters. These two make for a
supercharged pair of good/bad guys. Both are selfish and will use people to achieve their objectives, legal or not.
William Friedkin's direction plays a big role in pace and action as he focus on the buildup of the characters.
The best and most elaborate scene is the car chase that stretches out for miles. That's why
To Live and Die in L.A. is, in a way, a remake of
The French Connection.
Among the most shocking moments maybe in cinema history is when Richard Chance was shot in the head. Given how he
lived his life constantly on the edge and took on huge risks, it shouldn't be a surprise. Yet what happened is a
daring but calculated risk by William Friedkin. However, the movie should've ended right there because who cares
about Chance's partner afterwards?
The supporting players are a bonus: John Turturro, Dean Stockwell, Steve James, and Darlanne Fluegel. During the
opening credits which showed how counterfeit money was printed, it's the real thing, and some of the dollar bills
were passed around by the cast and crew for shopping afterwards.
All in all, William Friedkin is one of the best directors ever.