Dog Day Afternoon 40th Anniversary (Blu-ray)

"Dog Day Afternoon" is a film which only gets better with age, and this print is gorgeous. More than in many other contemporary films, Sidney Lumet's New York as depicted here is an indelible time capsule - early 70's NY in aspic. I found myself thoroughly enjoying every accurate detail from the phones to the car models to the topical references (the "Attica!" chant and the World Trade Center looming in the smoggy background, police sawhorses blocking the area instead of today's yellow crime scene tape, plus all the old local TV stations being represented on the scene: WOR-TV, etc).To top it off, it's touching to see the great documentary about John Cazale included in this 40th anniversary edition (and thus becoming widely available, which feels like justice being served). Acknowledging his importance both to this film and to all his colleagues, his co-star and friend Al Pacino goes on record describing how much Cazale taught him about acting. It's fascinating to hear someone of Pacino's stature talk about his own idols! Along with Pacino, a number of other heavyweights give testimony about why John Cazale was so important to them as a collaborator and friend. His was a tragic loss, and I'm just grateful we can enjoy the unforgettable performances Cazale had time to put on film.

Dog Day Afternoon is one of the definitive films of the 70s. It was a trend setter and a rule breaker. In a way it is a matching bookend to Midnight Cowboy in its gritty portrayal of NYC. The characters of Sonny, Sal and Leon were fraught with problems but we still rooted for them because they were likeable in their weaknesses and imperfections. This is one of the first films to portray gay characters as real people without relying on dated, negative stereotypes. Al Pacino's portrayal of Sonny is one of his most enjoyable and energetic. Chris Sarandon is amazing as Leon, a character whose transgenderism was tragically misdiagnosed. John Cazale's portrayal of the deeply troubled Sal is unforgettable.John Cazale is simply one of the greatest character actors of all time. It is great that this set includes the documentary about him. It is very impressive to see some of the greatest actors of our time singing his well deserved praises. How tragic that he was lost at such a young age.

Pacino at his best

Very happy with DVD and time frame. Had it just in time for the weekend. Glad to have purchased it for my collection. Again I do like the way it came pretty fast. :).

Great movie.

Dog Day Afternoon was a good movie at the time it was released. I recall hearing ELton John's Song "Tiny Dancer' when seeing the FiLm upon its initial release - I believe the song played during the outro-credits, but it could have been at the beginning. However, although Elton John provided some Music for Dog Day Afternoon, Tiny Dancer is NOT listed anywhere. Can anyone tell me if Tiny Dancer is on the soundtrack?

It's Lumet & Pacino in top form, both in the prime of their careers. This is what FILM is about. If you don't love, like or even appreciate this film...check for a pulse.

Best Picture of 1975 in my opinion! It’s that good! I absolutely love this film!

What's NOT to ♡One of my all time favorite movies!A must have in my DVD ~ Blu Ray home video Collection !

You don't want to get through life without having seen this film at least once. Al Pacino's performance is utterly captivating. John Cazale is great too. Brilliant direction from Sidney Lumet who helped the actors to improvise around an already brilliant script. This is how films should be made. It's so alive. If it's ever on the TV I find it almost impossible to stop watching despite the fact that it's sitting there on my shelf.

An excellent movie, better than I remembered and I remember being impressed when I originally saw it, a lifetime ago. The John Cazale doc on the bonus disk was interesting and enlightening.

One of Sidney Lumet's best films - arguably his best release.

Un autre classique des années 70! Å voir absolument!