The Outfit 1973

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The Outfit," a 1973 film, masterfully combines elements of crime and drama, offering a captivating cinematic experience. Directed by John Flynn, the movie adapts Donald E. Westlake's novel with skill and finesse, showcasing a gripping narrative that holds the audience's attention from start to finish.

Robert Duvall leads the cast with a powerful performance, embodying the role of Earl Macklin, a professional criminal seeking revenge against a mob organization. His portrayal is both nuanced and intense, bringing depth to a character driven by a personal vendetta. Joe Don Baker as Jack Cody stands out as well, providing a robust supporting role that complements Duvall's performance.

The cinematography of "The Outfit" is a highlight, capturing the gritty, tense atmosphere of the underworld. The film's pacing is excellent, balancing action sequences with quieter moments of character development. This balance ensures that the narrative remains engaging and dynamic throughout.

The script is another strength, delivering sharp dialogue and a well-structured plot. The characters are well-developed, each with their own motivations and complexities, which adds layers to the story. The direction by John Flynn is commendable, as he skillfully navigates the plot's twists and turns, maintaining suspense and intrigue.

In conclusion, "The Outfit" is a standout film in the crime genre. Its combination of strong performances, compelling narrative, and skillful direction make it a must-watch for fans of classic cinema. The movie not only entertains but also provides a thought-provoking look into the criminal psyche, making it a memorable and rewarding viewing experience.





Written and directed by John Flynn (Rolling Thunder, Lock Up, Out for Justice). Adapted from the Donald Westlake novel. Starring Robert Duvall, Joe Don Baker, Karen Black, Robert Ryan, and Timothy Carey with Richard Jaeckel, Joanna Cassidy, Sheree North, Bill McKinney, Elisha Cook Jr., Marie Windsor, Tom Reese, Felice Orlandi, Henry Jones, Jane Greer, Anita O’Day, Archie Moore, Roland La Starza, Roy Jenson, Emile Meyer, and John Steadman.

It certainly qualifies for the Neo Noir MoFo List, if anyone is looking for another candidate. The novel was published under Westlake's pseudonym, Richard Stark, and though the character's name is changed in this adaptation, Duvall is in essence playing the same Parker character introduced in the novel The Hunter, which was adapted first by John Boorman as Point Blank (1967) starring Lee Marvin (changing his name to Walker) and then later as Brian Helgeland's Payback (1999) starring Mel Gibson (changing the name to Porter). The Split (1968) starring Jim Brown, Slayground (1983) starring Peter Coyote, and Parker (2013) starring Jason Statham are also adapted from Richard Stark's Parker novels.
















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