Friedkin Uncut

William Friedkin's deep admiration for cinema began with Orson Welles' film *Citizen Kane*. This iconic work ignited his desire to craft narratives that deeply resonate with audiences around the globe.

Friedkin directed *The People vs. Paul Crump* in 1962, a landmark short documentary that played a crucial role in commuting a death sentence. This film marked the beginning of Friedkin's illustrious career in filmmaking.

One of Friedkin's most significant achievements is *The French Connection*, released in 1971. He adopted a cinéma vérité style, immersing himself with real New York police officers to explore the harsh realities of drug trafficking.

In 2011, Friedkin directed *Killer Joe*, a film that showcases deeply compelling performances from actors like Gina Gershon and Matthew McConaughey. The immersive style he honed during *The French Connection* influenced his approach to this gritty narrative.

An interesting casting anecdote involves Stacy Keach, who was originally set to play Father Karras in *The Exorcist*. However, the role was ultimately taken by Jason Miller, leading to a cinematic classic that remains influential today.

In 1977, Friedkin released *Sorcerer*, a film that, despite underperforming at the box office, showcased his bravery in pursuing bold narratives. The film is now regarded as a cult classic, illustrating his innovative storytelling.

Throughout his career, Friedkin drew inspiration from legends like Buster Keaton. The comedic genius's contributions to filmmaking significantly impacted Friedkin's artistic approach and narrative style.

In 1975, Friedkin created the documentary *Conversation with Fritz Lang*, exploring the life and legacy of another cinematic titan. This project served as a homage to Lang's contributions to the art of filmmaking.

Friedkin's 1980 film *Cruising* sparked significant controversy but also maintained his reputation for challenging conventional storytelling. The film's themes and execution pushed boundaries during a transformative period in cinema.

In 1985, Friedkin returned to the crime thriller genre with *To Live and Die in L.A.*. This film reaffirmed his status as a master storyteller and solidified his influence on the cinematic landscape.

In the later stages of his career, Friedkin transitioned to stage direction, embracing operas like *Wozzeck* and *Aida*. This shift reflects his desire to explore new artistic avenues beyond film.

Friedkin's venture into supernatural horror culminated with *The Devil and Father Amorth*, which premiered at the 74th Venice International Film Festival in 2017. This film marked his return to a genre that greatly influenced his creative journey.

Friedkin has been candid about his views on film award ceremonies, referring to them humorously as a 'dirty joke'. His outspoken nature reflects his commitment to artistic integrity and storytelling over accolades.

William Friedkin's legacy is marked by his relentless pursuit of storytelling excellence and his willingness to take creative risks. His contributions to cinema have left an indelible mark on filmmakers and audiences alike.