Midnight Cowboy

I don't think I've ever had such a completely different picture in my head for the narrative of this film and how it would play out, but then I realized there was no way I could've thought of something so dark, moving, sad, but beautiful all in one bunch. The pinnacle of toxic masculinity portrayed on the big screens! Plus watching this at 2am with a J sparked felt like the wildest fever dream ever. If I'm not mistaken this my first Dustin Hoffman film... sad to say but I've been missing out on some great work my gosh.. Now onto the film. This magnificent Best Picture Winner dives into the dark side of the American dream, reflecting the isolation, loneliness, and desperation of people on the edge of society. It also challenges the traditional notions of masculinity and the complexities of sexuality in a very fleshed out way. Joe Buck the naive visionary, the cowboy persona.. a facade. It reflects his insecurity also serving as an attempt to protect his image of masculinity but as the film progresses Mr. John Schlesinger slowly peals back this image. Revealing his true self. Then you have Ratso, without a doubt just the other side of the coin to Joe Buck. They may have a lot of similarities but their own views on the world couldn't be more different. He knows who he is, he knows the true harsh reality of New York City. But once Ratso feels like Joe is a true friend and he can trust him such responsibilities, it ultimately leads him to telling Joe he wants to move to Florida. Symbolizing hope, which unfortunately remains unfulfilled? That's up to you! To top it all off John creates a realistic and unflinching depiction of urban life and the struggles of oppressed individuals. With my personal favorite handheld camerawork, you add in one of the best soundtracks ever with the likes of Everybody's Talkin, Jungle Gym at the zoo, Tears and Joy. Most of all, the beautiful melancholic scores all throughout this film enhances the emotional impact and atmosphere of this film to an unreal level. “John Wayne your gonna tell me, he’s a fag? “ That may be my favorite one liner in cinema history..