Bugsy Malone (Parker, 1976) (Singalong Edition)

My brother Sam and I were first drawn to this film nearly a quarter of a century or so due to two things: (i) all the roles were played by people roughly our own age, ... more >

My brother Sam and I were first drawn to this film nearly a quarter of a century or so due to two things: (i) all the roles were played by people roughly our own age, and (ii) the two mob leaders were called Dandy Dan and Fat Sam, much to the amusement of our parents.

Looking back now, the film remains great fun. To see such a cut-throat adult world portrayed in an almost entirely different context by kids is pretty unique in cinema, and a stroke of near genius on the part of director Alan Parker. It matters little that some of the acting is pretty wooden - for one thing, many of the youngsters had little or no previous experience to their names. One obvious exception was Jodie Foster who, as Tallulah, radiates star quality even at such a tender age.

Of course, in the current climate of political-correctness, there are inevitably people who will view some of the scenes - such as those featuring the dancers in Fat Sam's Speakeasy - as exploitative and in dubious taste. Understandable, perhaps, but ultimately unfair. As far as I can tell there is nothing else about the film's content that could possibly be (mis)construed in this way. The cars are pedal-powered and the guns fire creamy 'splurge' rather than bullets...this is pure, harmless escapism; utterly mindless and with no particular message to convey, other than that gang warfare is essentially child's play. Er, possibly. < less

View all 24 of Dan Macklin’s reviews

This is one of my favourite films, because it's got no horrible stuff in it, brilliant music, nice lines and several child actors to marvel at (Jodie Foster and Scott ... more >

This is one of my favourite films, because it's got no horrible stuff in it, brilliant music, nice lines and several child actors to marvel at (Jodie Foster and Scott Baio are brilliant!) Just a bit of fun, and that's what I like! < less

View all 98 of anon’s reviews

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DVD Extras

• Singalong edition. Director's commentary
• Behind the scenes & where are they now featurettes
• Cast interviews.

Film Details

Cast

Jodie Foster, Scott Baio

Technical Details

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