Sorcerer Review: Pure Lunacy of Filmmaking!

Sorcerer is definitely one of those “They don’t make films like this anymore” sort of classics. William Friedkin wanted it to be his magnum opus and I think he well succeeded. I can see the obsessive side Friedkin had to create something unforgettable no matter how much time or money it took, it is quite a risk, and sadly one that doesn’t always pay off, but it is an effort that is well appreciated, and something not as many filmmakers take on nowadays.

What’s striking about this film personally to me is how sophisticated it managed to be whilst being a tense edge of the seat thriller. The trucks are represented quite poetically in this film, almost like the sentinent beings in their quiet menace and restrained power. Men driving them are mere bugs by comparison as they try tricking each other and grovel over as yet unattained spoils, even as the trials of the journey are about to transform and destroy them.

Another thing that’s great about this film (among multiple other great things) is its soundtrack. What a stroke of genius to have “Tangerine Dream” modulate the soundtrack, totally fits the vibe of the film.

All in all, Sorcerer is worth seeing just for the sheer ambition (madness) of William Friedkin in pulling off this miracle of a film in 1970s. More people need to see this film.

PS: I really miss this Strangers-brought-together-by-a- mastermind type of heist genre. Please bring it back Hollywood!

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