Some Guy

Falling Down is one of, if not, the best movie I’ve ever seen. It hits such a deep, emotional level that few films can match its well-crafted storytelling. The movie follows William Foster, an unemployed man who lost his family. When traffic is stopped due to construction, he looks around him and realizes how overwhelming and mundane the world is. He abandons his car on the road, and decides he’s going home. Throughout the film, he embarks on a journey that ends up costing him his life. Along the way, he faces the problems of everyday life; from business owners jacking up prices to the oppressive few that dictate the many. The secondary character we see is Prendergast, a desk cop whose abusive wife keeps him from reaching his full potential. He also sees development, like William, and faces a lot of tournament from his co-workers. The two end up meeting face-to-face in a final showdown. Douglas’s performance throughout the entire film is ridiculously impressive, but his delivery of the lines “I’m the bad guy? How did that happen?” near the end of the film are so emotional that it brings tears to my eyes every time. The film carries such a strong message about the ills of our society, and continues to be relevant, even into the 21st Century. I can’t help but wonder how angry William would be at how much more disturbing our world has become. The more you watch the film, the more you can’t help but feel sorry for him. Even Douglas admits this is his favorite role out of any film he’s been in. If you haven’t seen it, watch it; it’s one of the most important films ever made.