American film director best known for The French Connection (Il Braccio Violento Della Legge) and The Exorcist; influential figure of the New Hollywood era.

Born August 29, 1935; died August 7, 2023. His film The French Connection won multiple Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Director.

DeBaser reviews present William Friedkin as a central New Hollywood director, best known for The French Connection and The Exorcist. Critics praise his raw, realist style, technical mastery and memorable chase/violence sequences. Some reviews note controversial reception (Cruising, The Exorcist) and divided opinions on certain works. Killer Joe is discussed as a late-career return to form.

For:Fans of crime and horror cinema, students of New Hollywood, viewers interested in realist and confrontational directing

 Suck on this chicken.

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 In Friedkin's vision, there is no difference between the hunter (the law) and the hunted (the criminals).

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 William Friedkin is the most important living American director alongside Carpenter and Cronenberg, and this film is yet another confirmation of its beauty, importance, and solidity.

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