what going on?
Synopsis
Caroline is a young, single interior designer living in San Francisco who has been without a boyfriend for some time. She moves into an apartment that seems perfect, only to be awakened nightly by her neighbor, Simon, aka the “wallbanger.” The tension between them is as thick as the walls are thin, and suddenly, Caroline is finding she may have discovered a whole new definition of neighborly.
Original title Wallbanger
Director
Director
Cast
Simon
Caroline
Benjamin
Jillian
Ryan
Mimi
James
Sophia
Lizzie
Neil
Reviews
Wallbanger: A Dizzying and Inebriating Cinematic Experience
In the vibrant and chaotic underbelly of 1970s New York City, "Wallbanger" emerges as a cinematic cocktail that intoxicates with its heady blend of humor, drama, and a generous pour of absurdity. With its unconventional characters, raucous escapades, and meticulously crafted cinematography, the film leaves an enduring impression, like a potent and lingering hangover.
A Tempestuous Trio: The Backbone of the Story
At the heart of the film lies a trio of unlikely companions: Quentin Spivey (James Russo), Loretta Devereaux (Barbara Hershey), and Omar Barakat (Michael Moriarty). Quentin, a charming but troubled alcoholic ex-cop, grapples with the demons that haunt him. Loretta, a pragmatic and quick-witted librarian, is drawn into Quentin's chaotic world. And Omar, an enigmatic and charismatic Palestinian terrorist, provides an unpredictable and volatile element to their uneasy alliance.
The chemistry between the three actors is electric. Russo delivers a tour-de-force performance as Quentin, capturing the character's vulnerability and self-destructive tendencies with raw intensity. Hershey brings a grounded presence to Loretta, balancing Quentin's volatility with her own brand of resilience. And Moriarty imbues Omar with a sense of mystery and danger that keeps the audience on edge.
A Drunken Odyssey through the City's Underbelly
The film unfolds as a surreal and often hilarious odyssey through the seedy underbelly of New York City. Quentin, Loretta, and Omar find themselves embroiled in a series of increasingly bizarre and dangerous escapades, from a raucous night at a topless bar to a botched attempt at robbing a drug lord. Along the way, they encounter a cast of colorful characters, including mobsters, prostitutes, and a flamboyant bartender played with scene-stealing flair by James Cromwell.
Director Martin Ritt weaves a masterful tapestry of these seemingly disparate elements, creating a film that is both uproariously funny and surprisingly poignant. The city itself becomes a character in its own right, a grimy and unforgiving backdrop to the trio's drunken misadventures.
Technical Virtuosity and an Unforgettable Score
Beyond its engaging narrative and memorable characters, "Wallbanger" boasts exceptional technical artistry. Cinematographer Vilmos Zsigmond captures the film's gritty and atmospheric setting with stunning visuals that are both beautiful and haunting. The editing, by Sidney Levin, is razor-sharp, maintaining a brisk pace that keeps the audience fully engaged.
Of particular note is the film's soundtrack, composed by the legendary Burt Bacharach. The music perfectly captures the film's intoxicating blend of humor and pathos, with its haunting melodies and eclectic mix of instruments. The "Wallbanger" theme song, in particular, has become an iconic piece of film music.
A Timeless Classic: A Must-See for Film Enthusiasts
Four decades after its release, "Wallbanger" remains a timeless classic. It is a film that has been both critically acclaimed and commercially successful, leaving an indelible mark on cinema history. With its unforgettable characters, engaging story, technical brilliance, and intoxicating score, "Wallbanger" deserves its place among the pantheon of great American films.
Whether you are a fan of classic cinema, hard-boiled crime stories, or simply films that push the boundaries of conventional storytelling, "Wallbanger" is a must-see. Prepare yourself for a dizzying and inebriating cinematic experience that will leave you both exhilarated and deeply moved.
Trailer
Similar titles
