|
What else can you
really say about Arthur Penn’s immaculate production of “Bonnie and
Clyde” a masterpiece that’s admittedly sensationalistic of the legendary
criminal couple who robbed banks and went down in a hail of incredible
gunfire due to a police ambush. Though much of the details are little
foggy, “Bonnie and Clyde” succeeds in its depiction thanks to an
incredible cast who collectively give fantastic performances. From Gene
Hackman, to Estelle Parsons, right down to one of the most memorable
walk on roles of all time by Gene Wilder as an inadvertent motorist who
gets his car stolen by them, chases after them, and then unsuccessfully
attempts to run away when he learns of their identities, “Bonnie and
Clyde” is a pure masterpiece. And of course, who can forget the sterling
performances from the electric Warren Beatty and the elegant Faye
Dunaway? Penn’s film is an admitted sensationalist glance at the
infamous bank robbing duo, but at its core, that’s the basic intent.
“Bonnie and Clyde” isn’t just about the infamous bank robbing couple,
but of exploitation of crimes and exploitation of the people who commit
them.
|
Bonnie and
Clyde were one of the first celebrity couples known for
their misdeeds during the depression era, and the people
they came in contact with became celebrities in effect,
while the media exploited the entire reign of terror. Bonnie
and Clyde and their family were exploited up until and even
after the day they died, and Penn’s statement rings through
loud and clear, even to this day. |
|
 |
And in spite of the
technological advances of film in the modern age, the blood soaked
finale remains one of the most extraordinarily shot closers ever filmed.
The picture transfer for the DVD is fantastic with incredible sound and
glorious widescreen presentation. Among the extras are the original
trailers for “Bonnie and Clyde,” and on the second disc two hours worth
of tidbits for hardcore film buffs. “Revolution! The Making of Bonnie
and Clyde” is a series of documentaries about the making the film
and the commemoration of the 40th anniversary, while Profile
Love and Death: The Story of Bonnie and Clyde is the fascinating tale of
the real life couple who went from county to county robbing banks and
leaving a trail of bodies in their wake. There’s also the interesting
wardrobe tests for Warren Beatty prior his filming, and two deleted
scenes one of which features the couple planning their first failed
heist in the first half, and another of Clyde offering Bonnie a way out
of the threesome after the bank robbery, to which she declines. This
anniversary edition is definitely a worthy purchase for anyone whose yet
to own the film.
The packaging is
aces, the movie is still the downright masterpiece from Penn, and this
is one hell of a DVD set for fans of the film with great special
features, and a beautiful DVD transfer.
|
