Watch Dog Day Afternoon
- R
- 1975
- 2 hr 5 min
-
8.0 (277,521)
Dog Day Afternoon is a classic crime drama movie from 1975 that was directed by Sidney Lumet and written by Frank Pierson. The movie stars some of the most iconic actors of all time like Al Pacino, John Cazale, and Penelope Allen. Based on a real-life incident, the movie revolves around a failed bank robbery that took place on a scorching hot day in New York City. Al Pacino plays the role of Sonny Wortzik, a young, impulsive, and desperate man who attempts to rob a New York bank along with his friend Sal (John Cazale) to pay for his boyfriend's gender reassignment surgery.
However, their ill-prepared plan falls apart right from the start, and they end up holding up the bank for hours, taking employees as hostages. The tension is high as the police, media, and the public gather outside the bank, trying to figure out what's going on inside.
What started as a simple bank robbery soon turns into a media sensation, thanks to Sonny's erratic behavior and the media's constant coverage of the event. The movie paints a vivid picture of the chaos that unfolds due to the impulsive actions of a few people.
As Sonny's desperation grows, and his situation becomes more precarious, the tension reaches a boiling point. The movie showcases how people can be driven to extreme lengths due to their desperate circumstances.
Dog Day Afternoon is highly praised for its realistic portrayal of the events that took place that day. The screenplay is highly engaging, and the dialogues between the characters are sharp, witty, and unforgettable.
But what makes the movie truly shine is the powerhouse performances by its lead actors. Al Pacino's portrayal of Sonny is nothing short of brilliant. He brings a rawness and vulnerability to the role that is unmatched. His character is complex, and he manages to capture every nuance of his emotions admirably.
John Cazale, who tragically passed away soon after the release of the movie, also delivers an exceptional performance as Sal. He brings a quiet intensity to the role that perfectly balances Pacino's explosive performance.
Penelope Allen, who plays the role of Sylvia, one of the bank employees held hostage, also deserves a special mention. Her portrayal of a frightened and anxious hostage is incredibly realistic, and she manages to convey a wide range of emotions with just a few gestures.
Dog Day Afternoon is not just a gripping crime drama but also a commentary on society's attitudes towards the queer community, the media's obsession with sensationalizing news and the police's handling of hostage situations.
The movie's final act is emotional, intense, and unforgettable. It showcases the harsh realities of life and the consequences of the choices we make. It's a movie that will stay with you long after the end credits roll.
In conclusion, Dog Day Afternoon is a classic movie that deserves all the praise it has received over the years. It's a movie that showcases some of the best performances in cinema history and tells a story that is both gripping and unforgettable. If you're a fan of crime dramas, then you should definitely watch this movie.
Dog Day Afternoon is a 1975 crime movie with a runtime of 2 hours and 5 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.0 and a MetaScore of 86.