Barfly (1987) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
“Barfly (1987)” is a cult classic film that offers a gritty and poetic exploration of the life of a down-and-out writer. Directed by Barbet Schroeder and written by Charles Bukowski, the film stars Mickey Rourke and Faye Dunaway in unforgettable roles that delve into the world of alcohol, despair, and raw human emotion. This article provides a comprehensive review of “Barfly” and guides you on where to watch it online, including streaming services and rental options, particularly in the United States.
Plot Summary
Set in the gritty underbelly of Los Angeles, “Barfly” follows Henry Chinaski (played by Mickey Rourke), a struggling writer and alcoholic who spends his days and nights in dive bars, indulging in brawls and drunken escapades. The character of Henry is a semi-autobiographical portrayal of Charles Bukowski, capturing the writer’s own experiences and existential musings.
Henry meets Wanda Wilcox (played by Faye Dunaway), a fellow alcoholic who shares his disdain for conventional society. Together, they form a tumultuous relationship based on mutual understanding, attraction, and a shared love for booze. As they navigate their lives filled with barroom brawls, fleeting romances, and the constant quest for the next drink, Henry is confronted with an unexpected opportunity to escape his destitute existence when he catches the attention of Tully Sorenson (played by Alice Krige), a wealthy publisher who sees potential in his writing.
Direction and Screenplay
Barbet Schroeder directs “Barfly” with an eye for capturing the raw and unpolished reality of the characters’ lives. His direction maintains a balance between the grimness of the setting and the dark humor that permeates the narrative. The film’s screenplay, penned by Charles Bukowski, is a direct reflection of his literary style—raw, unfiltered, and imbued with a sense of brutal honesty. Bukowski’s dialogue is filled with wit and cynicism, capturing the essence of his literary voice and providing insight into the mind of a man who has made peace with his own disillusionment.
Performances
The performances in “Barfly” are widely regarded as some of the best of the era, particularly those of Mickey Rourke and Faye Dunaway. Rourke’s portrayal of Henry Chinaski is both charismatic and tragic; he embodies the character’s weary demeanor and biting wit with a performance that is equal parts vulnerable and defiant. His interpretation of Chinaski captures the essence of Bukowski’s alter ego—a man who is simultaneously a poet and a degenerate, struggling to find meaning in a seemingly meaningless world.
Faye Dunaway delivers a standout performance as Wanda Wilcox, a woman whose elegance is marred by her alcoholism and disillusionment with life. Dunaway brings a complexity to the character, making Wanda both a tragic figure and a beacon of strength in her own right. Together, Rourke and Dunaway share a chemistry that is electric, their interactions filled with a sense of authenticity and emotional rawness.
Themes and Symbolism
“Barfly” explores themes of existential despair, the search for meaning, and the gritty reality of life on society’s margins. The film serves as a critique of conventional success and happiness, instead finding poetry and beauty in the struggles of its characters. Through Henry Chinaski, “Barfly” offers a narrative that questions societal norms and celebrates the life of the outsider—those who live outside the bounds of societal expectations, embracing their flaws and living life on their own terms.
The bar setting itself is symbolic—a microcosm of society where the downtrodden gather, finding solace in the bottle and each other’s company. The characters’ constant return to the bar reflects a deeper existential need to belong, even in a place that represents their own personal hell.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, “Barfly” received mixed reviews from critics but has since garnered a cult following. Critics praised the film for its unflinching portrayal of alcoholism and the performances of its lead actors, particularly Rourke and Dunaway. Some saw the film as a romanticized view of Bukowski’s life, while others appreciated its candidness and the authenticity of its depiction of a subculture often ignored in mainstream cinema.
The film’s dialogue, direction, and performances have earned it a place as a cult classic among fans of Bukowski’s work and those who appreciate a raw and realistic approach to storytelling.
Where to Watch “Barfly” Online
For viewers in the United States, “Barfly (1987)” is available on several streaming platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: “Barfly” is available for rental or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. You can rent the film for $3.99 or purchase it for $12.99 in HD.
- Apple TV: The movie can be rented on Apple TV for $3.99 or purchased for $12.99 in HD quality.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Similar to other platforms, “Barfly” is available for rent or purchase on Google Play. Rentals start at $3.99.
- Vudu: “Barfly” can be rented on Vudu for $3.99 or bought for $12.99.
- YouTube Movies: The film is also available for rent or purchase on YouTube, providing another accessible option for viewers.
Conclusion
“Barfly” is a gritty, unfiltered look at the life of an outsider and a love letter to those who live on the fringes of society. With its stellar performances, sharp screenplay, and authentic portrayal of Bukowski’s world, the film offers a unique cinematic experience that is both sobering and poetic. Whether you are a fan of Charles Bukowski’s work or interested in a film that dives deep into the human psyche, “Barfly” is a must-watch. Check it out on your preferred streaming platform and immerse yourself in this raw and unforgettable cinematic journey.
