Films »
Neon Dreams: THE AMERICAN FRIEND (1977)
Runtime: 125 mins | Release Year: 1977 | Rating: NR | Genre(s): Crime, Drama, Thriller
Production Country: Germany | Original Language: French
Showtimes
‣ Friday March 21st @ 09:30 PM

European arthouse meets down-and-dirty film noir in The American Friend, Wim Wenders’ loose adaptation of Patricia Highsmith’s novel Ripley’s Game. Bruno Ganz and Dennis Hopper, who gives a unique spin on the Tom Ripley character popularized by Alain Delon in Purple Noon and Matt Damon in The Talented Mr. Ripley, star in what is arguably the greatest film of the ’70s about crime and toxic friendship.
Paying homage to the cinema of Nicholas Ray and Sam Fuller (both of whom appear in extended cameos), Wenders’ atmospheric thriller is an intoxicating blend of beauty and menace. Shot by frequent collaborator (and Neon Dreams hall-of-famer) Robby Müller, who gives the picture its distinct look with a glowing neon palette and desolate landscapes inspired by Edward Hopper paintings. Further enhanced by an iconic soundtrack of Bob Dylan and The Kinks tunes, The American Friend is a feast for the senses that has been immaculately restored by Janus Films.
This screening and others are made possible thanks to our wonderful sponsor Hollywood Suite.
Part of the Neon Dreams series!
Cast/Crew Info
Director: Wim Wenders | Cast: Dennis Hopper, Bruno Ganz, Lisa Kreuzer, Gérard Blain, Sandy Whitelaw