I revisited one of my favourite Jean Rouch's film Cocorico Monsieur Poulet (1974) few days back and it took me by surprise that the masterpiece didn't have a single review on IMDB. I posted the first and then I have always compared the chaps from Rouch's road movie to Eagle Pennell's character. They leave a myriad of lasting impressions and it depicts normal people like with the same needs or longings. Anyway, I wanted to share my thoughts on Pennell's indie gem The Whole Shootin' Match (1978), a film credited to serve as an inspiration for Robert Redford to start the Sundance Film Festival and Institute. Also, it was the first film to gain national attention for the Austin film scene. I can even add Kent Mackenzie's The Exiles (1961).
An analysis of Eagle Pennell's films reveals simple themes that are seen or repeated in all his works. It's about a small town that on the surface gives the middle class living. The movie follows Lloyd and Frank, two hapless blue-collar friends (drinking buddies) who possess a never give up attitude and have dreams of making it rich. They aren't depressed, but still dream big and drown their sorrows in local pub. For them, drinking and dreaming is much more important, whose signature is repeatedly captured by the director. Unfortunately, the alcoholism resonated with the real life of Eagle Pennell which led to his passing. He could have been something else but never wanted or cannot escape from his personal demons.
Anyway, this film is not a homage to drunkenness like few have mentioned online. The film does not sermonize but rather it presents the events as they happen. It could've been cheesy at times, introduced like in a soap opera, most seem to serve a cliché at first glance, but the characters never jump out of the track as they maintain the necessary grip despite galloping madness.
Conclusion: Thankfully as a character study and even as a downbeat comedy, It is easy to imagine that the film will develop a right amount of feelings and smile with some alcohol. Regardless, It can be viewed soberly, the gags and goofballs entertains with or without opening a cold one.
An analysis of Eagle Pennell's films reveals simple themes that are seen or repeated in all his works. It's about a small town that on the surface gives the middle class living. The movie follows Lloyd and Frank, two hapless blue-collar friends (drinking buddies) who possess a never give up attitude and have dreams of making it rich. They aren't depressed, but still dream big and drown their sorrows in local pub. For them, drinking and dreaming is much more important, whose signature is repeatedly captured by the director. Unfortunately, the alcoholism resonated with the real life of Eagle Pennell which led to his passing. He could have been something else but never wanted or cannot escape from his personal demons.
Anyway, this film is not a homage to drunkenness like few have mentioned online. The film does not sermonize but rather it presents the events as they happen. It could've been cheesy at times, introduced like in a soap opera, most seem to serve a cliché at first glance, but the characters never jump out of the track as they maintain the necessary grip despite galloping madness.
Conclusion: Thankfully as a character study and even as a downbeat comedy, It is easy to imagine that the film will develop a right amount of feelings and smile with some alcohol. Regardless, It can be viewed soberly, the gags and goofballs entertains with or without opening a cold one.