Introduction:
In the realm of motion pictures, the 1980s witnessed a surge of thrilling crime films. One standout among them is “To Live and Die in LA” (1985), a crime thriller written and directed by William Friedkin. This blog post delves into the captivating world of the film, its themes, impact, and its influence on subsequent works like “The Departed” and the renowned TV series “Breaking Bad.”
Synopsis:
“To Live and Die in LA” revolves around Richard Chance, a determined United States Secret Service agent portrayed by William Petersen. After his partner falls victim to the cold-blooded actions of counterfeiter Rick Masters (played by Willem Dafoe), Chance vows to avenge his death at any cost. The film follows Chance’s relentless pursuit of Masters, showcasing his unorthodox methods, such as sleeping with an informant and engaging in a daring undercover operation.
Plot and Climax:
As Chance’s operation takes an unexpected turn, tragedy strikes when he is killed by Masters’ bodyguard during an attempted arrest. Enter John Vukovitch, Chance’s new partner played by John Pankow, who embarks on a thrilling shoot-out and foot chase to bring Masters to justice. In a final confrontation, Vukovitch empties his gun into Masters, defending himself and avenging his fallen partner. The film concludes with an intriguing twist, suggesting that Vukovitch may have inherited Chance’s “at all costs” mentality.
Reception and Influence:
“To Live and Die in LA” garnered positive reviews upon its release, surpassing its modest $6 million budget and grossing $17.3 million, according to IMDB. Esteemed film critic Roger Ebert hailed it as Friedkin’s comeback film, while praising Petersen’s portrayal of a wry, tough, and smart protagonist. However, Variety’s review offered a more mixed perspective, labeling it “A rich man’s Miami Vice.”
Themes Explored:
At the heart of the film lies the theme of vengeance and the lengths one is willing to go to achieve it. The narrative also explores the familiar trope of law enforcement bending the rules, albeit with a twist. As the story unfolds within the realm of the United States Secret Service, federal agents with higher authority, it subverts the expectations associated with typical rogue police detectives taking on the establishment. The film strikes a balance with its violence, as it remains necessary to convey the revenge-driven narrative.
Impact and Legacy:
“To Live and Die in LA” left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. Its influence can be prominently seen in subsequent works like the 2005 crime drama “The Departed” and the acclaimed TV series “Breaking Bad.” Both projects share similar themes of revenge, accompanied by intense levels of violence, showcasing the lasting impact of Friedkin’s masterpiece.
Personal Reflection:
As a viewer, “To Live and Die in LA” captivated me, particularly given its influence on the beloved series “Breaking Bad.” Witnessing William Friedkin’s work post-“The French Connection” was a treat, and the film’s gritty atmosphere and suspenseful narrative left a lasting impression.
Conclusion:
“To Live and Die in LA” remains an essential entry in the pantheon of ’80s crime thrillers. Its exploration of vengeance, unorthodox law enforcement, and its impact on subsequent works make it an influential piece of cinema. For those seeking a gripping tale of pursuit and revenge, this film serves as a gateway to an era marked by intense storytelling and masterful direction.
Sam Whitfield 