“Brewster McCloud” is a 1970 movie about a young man who dreams of flying, living in a world obsessed with it. He lives in the basement of the Houston Astrodome and is pursued by the police for murder. The film delves into themes of individualism and society’s expectations, while satirizing the American obsession with success. The ending is both surreal and cathartic, leaving the audience to wonder whether Brewster truly flew or if it was all just a dream. Overall, “Brewster McCloud” is an unconventional, thought-provoking film that defies easy categorization.
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Review
As a behavioral economist and movie enthusiast, I recently discovered a hidden gem from 1970 called “Brewster McCloud.” Directed by Robert Altman, this film offers a unique blend of comedy, drama, and fantasy that left me thoroughly entertained and intrigued.
The storyline follows the life of Brewster McCloud (played by Bud Cort), a young man who lives in the Houston Astrodome and plans to build a pair of mechanical wings to fly. Along the way, he encounters various interesting characters, including an eccentric bird expert (played by Sally Kellerman) and an aggressive detective (played by Michael Murphy).
One of the most striking aspects of this film is its unconventional plot structure. Instead of following a linear narrative, “Brewster McCloud” jumps around in time and space, incorporating dream sequences and surreal imagery. This approach may be disorienting at first, but it ultimately serves to enhance the film’s themes of freedom, enlightenment and ambition.
The cast is anchored by Bud Cort’s understated performance as Brewster. Despite his oddities (such as his habit of wearing birdseed around his neck), Brewster is presented as sympathetic and even heroic in his quest for flight. Conversely, Michael Murphy’s Detective Frank Shaft is presented as an antagonist whose obsession with catching Brewster borders on mania.
But what really stands out about “Brewster McCloud” is its technical aspects. The film features stunning cinematography by Jordan Cronenweth (“Blade Runner”), which captures the vastness of the Astrodome with breathtaking precision. In addition, the film uses innovative sound design that underscores its surreal tone – one scene features Sally Kellerman reciting lines from T.S. Eliot while hundreds of birds take flight around her.
Interestingly enough, “Brewster McCloud” was not a commercial success upon release – it received mixed reviews from critics and struggled at the box office. However, it has since gained a cult following and a reputation as one of Altman’s most underrated works.
Part of the film’s appeal lies in its themes of individuality and nonconformity. Brewster’s desire to fly is presented as an act of rebellion against societal norms, and the film hints at broader critiques of consumerism and conformity. This message was likely resonant with audiences during the countercultural era in which the film was released.
In terms of awards, “Brewster McCloud” received only one nomination – for Best Original Song at the Academy Awards. However, its lasting impact on cinema cannot be measured solely by awards.
Overall, I highly recommend “Brewster McCloud” to anyone looking for a unique cinematic experience. Its blend of humor, drama, and fantasy is sure to leave an impression. As Brewster himself says in the film: “We must all have wings, lest we die.”
Technical Data
- Runtime : 105
- Release : 1970-12-05
- Genre : Fantasy, Comedy
- Cast : Bud Cort as Brewster, Sally Kellerman as Louise, Michael Murphy as Shaft, William Windom as Weeks, Shelley Duvall as Suzanne
- Crew : Jordan Cronenweth as Director of Photography, Lou Lombardo as Editor, Robert Altman as Director, Gary Chason as Casting Director, Hugh Hunt as Set Decoration
- Popularity 7.514
- Budget : 0
- Revenue : 0
- Company : Lions Gate Films, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
- Summary : Brewster is an owlish, intellectual boy who lives in a fallout shelter of the Houston Astrodome. He has a dream: to take flight within the confines of the stadium. Brewster tells those he trusts of his dream, but displays a unique way of treating others who do not fit within his plans.
- Tagline : THIS MAY BE OVER YOUR HEAD.
