This is one of those films that preys on the fears and emotions of its viewers, but does it rather well. It purposely contrives situations in order to gain our sympathies for the characters it wants. "Lethal Weapon 2" did this by having the evil South African government offical proclaim, "Diplomatic immunity!" after committing a heinous crime. In "Dirty Harry," the Scorpio Killer claims police brutality after receiving a well-deserved beating. Makes for a nice story and usually achieves its goal, though it simultaneously insults us as viewers. Nonetheless, I have a weakness for serial killer movies, especially when written well. This one is particularly memorable because it features Clint Eastwood in the title role, though Andy Robinson is at least as remarkable as the Scorpio Killer. Harry Callahan is dubbed "Dirty" because he refuses to play by the rules. He represents the biggest challenge to the killer, so the cat and mouse game ensues. Can Harry stop him before he kills again? Long a fantasy for upstanding citizens, this film is increasingly on its way toward becoming a reality (courtesy the NRA), due to laws permitting concealed handguns and to shoot now, ask questions later. Fed-up citizens with firearms are exactly what America needs to be great once again.
This is one of those films that preys on the fears and emotions of its viewers, but does it rather well. It purposely contrives situations in order to gain our sympathies for the characters it wants. "Lethal Weapon 2" did this by having the evil South African government offical proclaim, "Diplomatic immunity! " after committing a heinous crime. In "Dirty Harry," the Scorpio Killer claims police brutality after receiving a well-deserved beating. Makes for a nice story and usually achieves its goal, though it simultaneously insults us as viewers. Nonetheless, I have a weakness for serial killer movies, especially when written well. This one is particularly memorable because it features Clint Eastwood in the title role, though Andy Robinson is at least as remarkable as the Scorpio Killer. Harry Callahan is dubbed "Dirty" because he refuses to play by the rules. He represents the biggest challenge to the killer, so the cat and mouse game ensues. Can Harry stop him before he kills again? Long a fantasy for upstanding citizens, this film is increasingly on its way toward becoming a reality (courtesy the NRA), due to laws permitting concealed handguns and to shoot now, ask questions later. Fed-up citizens with firearms are exactly what America needs to be great once again.