William Friedkin was one of the greatest American filmmakers of his generation. One of the leading exponents of New Hollywood, the director has directed a number of acclaimed and significant films throughout his career.
He won the Oscar for best director for the film “Operation France”. However, the director was widely recognized for directing ‘The Exorcist’, one of the most famous and influential horror films of all time.
Sadly, Friedkin passed away on August 7, 2023 at the age of 87. However, he has left us an incredible cinematic legacy, with a series of quality films. Below, we list the best movies from this big name in cinema.
movie list
Operation France (1971)
Winner of five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, the classic “Operation France” is a remarkable crime thriller recognized for its gritty, realistic approach and intense, dangerous atmosphere.
The film also stands out for its memorable and mind-blowing chase scenes.
The plot follows iconic narcotics detective Popeye Doyle (Gene Hackman) on his search for a French drug lord as part of an operation to bust a drug trafficking ring.
The Exorcist (1973)
‘The Exorcist’ is widely regarded as one of the scariest and most influential horror films of all time.
The film tells the story of a Hollywood actress (Ellen Burstyn) whose 12-year-old daughter (Linda Blair) is possessed by an evil entity. Desperate, her mother asks the priests for help to perform an exorcism and save the life of her daughter.
A pop culture milestone, the film features haunting and unforgettable scenes, such as the famous green vomit scene and the scene of the possessed girl turning her head.
The Fear Train (1977)
Reinterpretation of the French film “The Salary of Fear”. “The Train of Fear” chronicles the journey of four individuals of different origins and nationalities who are forced to work together to transport unstable nitroglycerin by truck through dangerous terrain in South America.
Punctuated by moments of high tension, the film is full of impressive and intense scenes, such as the one in which a truck crosses a precarious and unstable bridge.
Cruise (1980)
Upon its release, “Cruising” sparked controversy within the LGBTQIAPN+ community and activists due to its depiction of New York’s gay culture and BDSM scene. The film also faced production challenges due to censorship issues, resulting in some scenes being cut to avoid restrictive ratings.
The plot follows an undercover cop (Al Pacino) who investigates the brutal murders of a serial killer who targets gay men in New York nightlife. As you immerse yourself in the scene Skinfaces a variety of personal and professional conflicts and dilemmas.
Despite initially negative critical reception and commercial failure, “Cruising” has been reevaluated over the years, taking into account the cultural and social context in which it was released.
To Live and Die in Los Angeles (1985)
Capturing the energy of the 1980s, “To Live and Die in Los Angeles” is an action thriller that blends the director’s signature gritty and engaging approach with an alluring aesthetic and setting.
Additionally, the feature film features one of cinema’s most memorable car chase scenes.
In the story, a Secret Service agent (William Petersen) walks the line between justice and corruption as he seeks revenge against a master forger (Willem Dafoe) who murdered his partner.
Hunted (2003)
One of the main highlights of “Caçado” is the use of physical environments to create tension, particularly by using the scenarios and locations in the thrilling chases between the protagonists, covering various spaces from urban to natural.
The plot follows a retired special forces instructor (Tommy Lee Jones) who is called upon to hunt down and capture a former student (Benicio del Toro) who has turned into a ruthless and skilled killer with jungle survival techniques.
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Source: Olhar Digital
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
