It’s 30-odd years since Friedkin directed The French Connection and The Exorcist, but the man’s still got ‘It’ – heck, “edgy” was practically invented for Friedkin’s movies! Infused with venality and dark ambiguity, I challenge you not to laugh out loud at the most inappropriate of moments. It’s Matthew McConaughey’s film: toothpick-chewing, spur-clinking charmer Joe Cooper, a law enforcer by day and a ruthlessly efficient contract killer by night. Check out our Monday double-bill of Magic Mike and Killer Joe: ”Matthew McConaughey: from himbo to highbrow,” according to The Guardian.
“I heard you all talkin’ about killin Mama… I think it’s a good idea.” When a debt puts a young man’s life in danger, he turns to putting contract out on his evil mother in order to collect the insurance. It all comes to a head in a visceral climactic scene that will not only test your stomach but also leave you in awe of Friedkin’s furious, funny and fearless anarchy. Think Coen brothers, Tarantino.
