Phillip Marlowe is a iconic character, from the pages of Raymond Chandler novels to portrayals on film by the likes of Humphrey Bogart and Robert Mitchum. Robert Altmans' The Long Goodbye took that character (who very much was a man stuck in the late 40's early 50's) and transplanted him to the mid-70's without updating his personal traits. Marlowe does not fit in with the lifestyle of the 70's, with his strict moral codes and lack of health consciousness (he's the only character to smoke in the movie and does so in every scene).
I'm not going to get into the plot (it involves a murder and some gangsters and some Private detecting) of the film because it's more about style and mood. Elliott Gould is great in the lead role. He's constantly talking to himself and has a smart-ass remark for everything thrown his way. Sterling Hayden is amazing as well as hard-drinking author Robert Wade, displaying a uncanny ability to fly off the handle at any given moment. Keep an eye out for a early career appearance by a certain muscle-bound Governor as well (sporting an incredible moustache).
The movie is rooted in noir tradition but turns it a bit on its side, making for a very enjoyable experience. I highly recommend everyone with a passing interest in Film Noir or detective stories to check out The Long Goodbye. It's a little bit different and not for everyone but I really enjoy this film.
Rating 4.5/5
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