Friedkin Uncut 2019
Directed by
Francesco Zippel
Made by
Ambi Distribution
Plot Summary
The brilliance of William Friedkin is on full display as he intimately recounts his journey from navigating the lively streets of Chicago to becoming an iconic filmmaker. His deep admiration for cinema was sparked by Orson Welles’ acclaimed film Citizen Kane (1941), which inspired him to craft compelling narratives that resonate with viewers globally. Friedkin’s early endeavor, The People vs. Paul Crump (1962), not only played a role in commuting a death sentence but also marked the initiation of his notable filmmaking career.
A significant milestone in Friedkin’s artistic evolution is The French Connection (1971), where he adopted a cinéma vérité style by embedding himself with real New York police officers to grasp the harsh realities of drug trafficking. This immersive experience later influenced his direction in Killer Joe (2011), a film where both Gina Gershon and Matthew McConaughey share insightful experiences about their performances guided by Friedkin.
His creative journey unfolds through engaging conversations with actors, including an interesting anecdote involving Stacy Keach who was originally cast as Father Karras in The Exorcist, a role that ultimately went to Jason Miller. This exploration leads us to Sorcerer (1977), a film that, despite its lackluster box office, demonstrated Friedkin’s willingness to explore bold narratives.
Throughout his career, Friedkin has drawn inspiration from luminaries such as Buster Keaton, whose pioneering contributions to filmmaking resonated with him. This connection is further highlighted in his 1975 documentary Conversation with Fritz Lang, which provides an insight into the life and artistic legacy of this cinematic titan.
As the New Hollywood movement transitioned into the 1980s, Friedkin’s projects maintained a broad scope. Even with the controversies surrounding Cruising (1980), he continued to challenge conventional storytelling. His return to the crime thriller genre with To Live and Die in L.A. (1985) solidified his status as a maestro in filmmaking.
In the later stages of his career, Friedkin shifted his focus towards stage direction, embracing operas such as Wozzeck and Aida. His latest venture in supernatural horror, The Devil and Father Amorth (2017), premiered at the 74th Venice International Film Festival, marking a significant comeback to the genre that first imbued him with creative inspiration.
In summary, William Friedkin’s cinematic legacy is a testament to his unyielding commitment to storytelling, a fervent passion for filmmaking, and a boldness in taking creative risks. His candid opinions on film award ceremonies, which he humorously deems as a “dirty joke,” further exemplify his dedication to uphold artistic integrity.
Timeline
Friedkin's Inspiration from Citizen Kane
William Friedkin's deep admiration for cinema began with Orson Welles' film *Citizen Kane*. This iconic work ignited his desire to craft narratives that deeply resonate with audiences around the globe.
The People vs. Paul Crump
Friedkin directed *The People vs. Paul Crump* in 1962, a landmark short documentary that played a crucial role in commuting a death sentence. This film marked the beginning of Friedkin's illustrious career in filmmaking.
The French Connection
One of Friedkin's most significant achievements is *The French Connection*, released in 1971. He adopted a cinéma vérité style, immersing himself with real New York police officers to explore the harsh realities of drug trafficking.
Killer Joe
In 2011, Friedkin directed *Killer Joe*, a film that showcases deeply compelling performances from actors like Gina Gershon and Matthew McConaughey. The immersive style he honed during *The French Connection* influenced his approach to this gritty narrative.
Casting of Father Karras
An interesting casting anecdote involves Stacy Keach, who was originally set to play Father Karras in *The Exorcist*. However, the role was ultimately taken by Jason Miller, leading to a cinematic classic that remains influential today.
The Release of Sorcerer
In 1977, Friedkin released *Sorcerer*, a film that, despite underperforming at the box office, showcased his bravery in pursuing bold narratives. The film is now regarded as a cult classic, illustrating his innovative storytelling.
Influences from Buster Keaton
Throughout his career, Friedkin drew inspiration from legends like Buster Keaton. The comedic genius's contributions to filmmaking significantly impacted Friedkin's artistic approach and narrative style.
Documentary on Fritz Lang
In 1975, Friedkin created the documentary *Conversation with Fritz Lang*, exploring the life and legacy of another cinematic titan. This project served as a homage to Lang's contributions to the art of filmmaking.
Controversy Surrounding Cruising
Friedkin's 1980 film *Cruising* sparked significant controversy but also maintained his reputation for challenging conventional storytelling. The film's themes and execution pushed boundaries during a transformative period in cinema.
Return to Crime Thrillers
In 1985, Friedkin returned to the crime thriller genre with *To Live and Die in L.A.*. This film reaffirmed his status as a master storyteller and solidified his influence on the cinematic landscape.
Shift to Stage Direction
In the later stages of his career, Friedkin transitioned to stage direction, embracing operas like *Wozzeck* and *Aida*. This shift reflects his desire to explore new artistic avenues beyond film.
The Devil and Father Amorth Premiere
Friedkin's venture into supernatural horror culminated with *The Devil and Father Amorth*, which premiered at the 74th Venice International Film Festival in 2017. This film marked his return to a genre that greatly influenced his creative journey.
Artistic Integrity and Film Awards
Friedkin has been candid about his views on film award ceremonies, referring to them humorously as a 'dirty joke'. His outspoken nature reflects his commitment to artistic integrity and storytelling over accolades.
Cinematic Legacy
William Friedkin's legacy is marked by his relentless pursuit of storytelling excellence and his willingness to take creative risks. His contributions to cinema have left an indelible mark on filmmakers and audiences alike.
Characters
William Friedkin
William Friedkin is a dedicated and audacious filmmaker known for his innovative storytelling and commitment to cinema. His journey is marked by significant milestones that reflect his deep appreciation for the art form and his willingness to tackle complex themes.
Gina Gershon
Gina Gershon is a talented actress who shares her insights on performing under Friedkin's direction. Her experiences emphasize the collaborative spirit of filmmaking and the impact of an innovative director on an actor's craft.
Setting
Time period
1960s - 2010s
The film chronicles the artistic evolution of William Friedkin from the 1960s through the 2010s, a period marked by significant changes in cinema, including the rise of the New Hollywood movement. This era saw filmmakers like Friedkin breaking traditional storytelling norms and experimenting with innovative techniques and narratives.
Location
Chicago, New York
Chicago serves as the backdrop for William Friedkin's early life, a vibrant city known for its rich cultural scene and historic architecture. New York plays a pivotal role in Friedkin's filmmaking career, known for its bustling streets and the gritty realities of urban life, particularly in the realm of crime and drug trafficking.
Themes
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Artistic Journey
Friedkin's journey embodies the theme of artistic exploration, showcasing his dedication to cinema and storytelling. The film reflects on his willingness to take risks and embrace new techniques, ultimately redefining the landscape of modern filmmaking.
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Crime and Reality
The influence of crime and reality is a core theme, evident in Friedkin's immersion with real police officers to capture authentic experiences. This approach underscores his commitment to portraying the gritty truths of society through compelling narratives.
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Theatrical Influence
Friedkin's transition into stage direction highlights the theme of theatrical influence on filmmaking. His ventures into opera and stage plays reflect his versatility and passion for storytelling beyond the cinematic realm.
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