We have sad news to report.  The great director William Friedkin has passed away at the age of 87.

Friedkin directed two of the most influential films of all time — 1971’s The French Connection and 1973’s The Exorcist.  Though his later films were often overshadowed by those two films, To Live and Die In L.A., Killer Joe, and Rampage are all fine films in their own right.  His final film, The Caine Mutiny Court Martial, is scheduled to premiere at the Venice International Film Festival in September. 

Not only was Friedkin a talented director but he was also a wonderful interview subject, one who said exactly what was on his mind and without much worry about upsetting or challenging the sensibilities of his audience.  His autobiography should be required reading for any serious student of American film history.

Here is the legendary car chase from The French Connection.

William Friedkin Films That We Have Reviewed:

1. The French Connection
2. The Exorcist
3. Self Control
4. The Guardian
5. Blue Chips
6. 12 Angry Men
7. Killer Joe