To Live and Die in L.A. (1985) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
To Live and Die in L.A. (1985) is a neo-noir crime thriller directed by William Friedkin, known for his work on The French Connection and The Exorcist. The film stars William Petersen, Willem Dafoe, John Pankow, and Darlanne Fluegel. It is celebrated for its gritty portrayal of crime and corruption in Los Angeles, as well as its intense narrative and memorable action sequences.
Plot Summary
The film follows Richard Chance (William Petersen), a secret service agent who becomes deeply involved in a dangerous and morally ambiguous pursuit. Chance is on a mission to bring down a notorious counterfeiter, Rick Masters (Willem Dafoe), who has managed to evade capture. The story takes a dark turn when Chance’s partner is killed by Masters during a botched operation, propelling Chance into a personal vendetta.
As Chance dives deeper into the world of counterfeit money and organized crime, he finds himself increasingly entangled in a web of deceit and violence. The film explores themes of justice, obsession, and the fine line between law enforcement and criminality.
Critical Reception
To Live and Die in L.A. is widely regarded as a classic in the crime thriller genre, praised for its intense storytelling and stylish direction.
Strengths:
- Direction and Cinematography: William Friedkin’s direction is sharp and unflinching, creating a gritty and realistic portrayal of Los Angeles. The film’s cinematography captures the city’s underbelly with a raw, immersive quality.
- Performance: William Petersen delivers a compelling performance as Richard Chance, bringing depth and intensity to his role. Willem Dafoe’s portrayal of the menacing Rick Masters is also notable, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
- Action Sequences: The film is known for its gripping action scenes, including a particularly memorable car chase that stands out for its realism and excitement. The practical effects and stunts contribute to the film’s dynamic energy.
- Musical Score: The film’s score, composed by Wang Chung, complements its high-octane atmosphere and adds to the overall intensity of the experience.
Weaknesses:
- Violence and Morality: Some viewers may find the film’s portrayal of violence and moral ambiguity unsettling. The gritty depiction of crime and corruption can be intense and might not appeal to all audiences.
- Pacing Issues: While the film is generally well-paced, there are moments where the story can feel slow or meandering. Some critics have noted that the film’s second act may drag slightly.
- Character Development: While the film excels in its action and plot, some critics have felt that character development could be deeper. The focus on the crime narrative sometimes overshadows more nuanced character exploration.
Themes and Analysis
To Live and Die in L.A. explores several significant themes:
- Justice and Obsession: The film delves into the concept of justice and how far individuals are willing to go to achieve it. Richard Chance’s obsession with capturing Rick Masters drives much of the narrative, highlighting the thin line between justice and personal vendetta.
- Corruption and Moral Ambiguity: The film portrays a world where corruption is pervasive and moral lines are blurred. It examines how characters navigate a system rife with deceit and ethical compromise.
- Identity and Transformation: Characters in the film often grapple with their identities and the transformations that come with their actions. The film explores how the pursuit of justice can lead to personal changes and moral conflicts.
- Crime and Consequence: The consequences of criminal actions are central to the film’s narrative. The impact of crime on individuals and their relationships is a recurring theme, illustrating the far-reaching effects of illegal activities.
Where to Watch To Live and Die in L.A. Online
To Live and Die in L.A. is available on several streaming platforms and for rental/purchase online:
1. Streaming Services
- Hulu: The film may be available for streaming on Hulu. Check their catalog for current availability.
- Amazon Prime Video: It might also be available for streaming with an Amazon Prime subscription. Check the Amazon Prime library for availability.
2. Rental/Purchase Services
- Amazon Video: The film can be rented or purchased on Amazon Video. Rental prices typically start at $3.99, with purchase options around $12.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rental or purchase on Google Play, with similar pricing to Amazon.
- Apple iTunes: To Live and Die in L.A. can be rented or purchased on iTunes, with rental prices starting at $3.99 and purchase options available for around $12.99.
- Vudu: Vudu offers rental and purchase options for the film, with standard pricing.
Conclusion
To Live and Die in L.A. (1985) is a gripping and intense crime thriller directed by William Friedkin. Featuring strong performances from William Petersen and Willem Dafoe, the film combines thrilling action with a deep exploration of justice and morality. Its portrayal of Los Angeles’ darker side and its stylish direction make it a standout in the genre. Available on streaming and rental/purchase platforms, To Live and Die in L.A. is a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and neo-noir cinema.
