Tuesday, November 10, 2026

The Bloody Pit #239 - BULLITT (1969)

 


My good buddy Mark Maddox returns to the show to discuss the classic Steven McQueen crime film BULLITT (1969). Vrooooommm!
 
We recount our history with the film before digging into the reasons it feels more modern than some recent movies. The adult level storytelling is pulled apart as we bounce around the plot and point out the clever bits that add to its realistic tone. The cast comes under our gaze with perhaps a little too much time spent on Robert Vaughn and his career. Things eventually devolve into each of us listing favorite McQueen movies and we clearly think that everyone should see JUNIOR BONNER (1972). For the first time since I podcasted about The Night Stalker I’m able to talk about the great Simon Oakland and Mark joins in to relate his impressions of his various roles. We use director Peter Yates’ commentary track as a guide to some juicy production details all the way down to his description of the famous Mustang that Frank Bullitt drives. Plus, somehow KRULL (1983) takes a few stray shots as we go along so I expect some spicy feedback. I wonder how many listeners will notice when it is obvious that I’ve kept Mark up too far past his bedtime.
 
If you have any comments or suggestions thebloodypit@gmail.com is the place to send them. Our plan is to do more gritty crime films so get in your preferences now! Thank you for listening. 

No comments: