Episode Details

What makes To Live and Die in L.A. one of the best films of the 1980s?

Like The French Connection's stylish cousin, To Live and Die in L.A. blurs who's a cop and a criminal.

An action thriller Neo-noir, the movie boasts an all-time thrilling car chase and features the grind, scheming, and sex appeal of 1980s Los Angeles.

Director William Friedkin considered it one of his top works, and I and many others toss it in the mix for the very best movies of the 1980s.

In this episode, I discuss what this film glues together: a bit of Robby Müller and crew's cinematography; Wang Chung's synth soundtrack; gritty performances from actors like Willem Dafoe and William Peterson; and, of course, that unforgettable ending.

I also share some fun facts about the making of the movie and discuss its lasting legacy.

Directed by William Friedkin. Starring William L. Petersen, Willem Dafoe, John Pankow, Debra Feuer, John Turturro, Darlanne Fluegel, and Dean Stockwell.

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