Dustin Hoffman had a decade, the 1970s, when all of his films became either classics or at least interesting performances from him. But one such film, though very well put together, is completely ruined by its French title.
Dustin Hoffman’s first film… until he was released
Straight Time is a feature film released in 1978, directed by Ulu Grosbard, with whom Hoffman had recently made the little-known Who Is Harry Kellerman?, the story of a rock composer who discovers that someone named Harry Kellerman is spreading false rumors about him. . Unable to discover the identity of this liar, the musician loses control and thinks about killing himself. Hoffman was hired as a director on Straight Time, but quit a few days into filming, unable to produce enough shots each day.
Straight Time tells the story of the release from prison of ex-con Max Dembo (Hoffman), who is on parole after 6 years in prison. Determined to rebuild his life honestly, he tries his best to get back on the straight and narrow, despite the pressure put on him by his court controller, played by Mr. Emmett Walsh.
A French title that spoils the film
The French title of the film is Recidivist, do you think the main character will resist committing a new crime?
Where Straight Time tells us that it’s literally “time to go straight” and leaves us wondering if the hero will come back over the course of the film, The Repeat Offender already shows the character sinking again. Because in fact, Max Dembo can’t escape and finds himself cornered and without a way out, he decides to rob again (this time a jewelry store).
Dustin Hoffman and Harry Dean Stanton
It’s a bad choice that continues to this day, as the film is still marketed under that title. A nice remnant that doesn’t completely ruin the discovery of this good thriller, but still hurts its plot interest.
FYI, this scenario is also based on Edward Bunker’s personal experience, which he recounted in a novel titled No beast so cruel. Bunker worked on the first draft of the script with one Michael Mann, who would again be inspired by Bunker to write the role of Jon Voight in Heat.
Source: Allocine
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.
