Dirty Harry (1971) Review in 2025
Dirty Harry is a gritty, intense crime thriller that follows the story of a tough, no-nonsense cop who takes the law into his own hands to catch a serial killer.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for family viewing due to graphic violence and strong language.
CineReview Recommendation
Dirty Harry is a must-watch for fans of crime thrillers and action movies. However, due to its graphic violence and strong language, it's not recommended for family viewing.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie revolves around Harry Callahan, a tough-as-nails cop who is tasked with catching a serial killer known as Scorpio. As Harry delves deeper into the case, he becomes increasingly obsessed with catching the killer, even if it means bending the law.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and intense, with a clear focus on the cat-and-mouse game between Harry and Scorpio. However, the plot is somewhat predictable and lacks complexity.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with Clint Eastwood delivering a standout performance as Harry Callahan. The supporting cast is also excellent, with notable performances from Andy Robinson and Harry Guardino.
characters9.00/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Harry Callahan being a standout. Clint Eastwood brings depth and nuance to the role, making Harry a compelling and relatable character.
direction8.50/10
Don Siegel's direction is masterful, with a keen eye for pacing and tension. The film's use of lighting and camera angles adds to the overall sense of unease and tension.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is excellent, with a focus on capturing the gritty, realistic feel of the city. However, some of the camera angles and movements feel a bit dated.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Dirty Harry is a gripping and intense crime thriller with a standout performance from Clint Eastwood. The film's use of lighting and camera angles adds to the overall sense of unease and tension.
Cons
The plot is somewhat predictable and lacks complexity, and some of the camera angles and movements feel a bit dated.
Notable Quotes
"I know what you're thinking. 'Did he fire six shots or only five?' Well, to tell you the truth, in all this excitement I kind of lost track myself."
"You've got to ask yourself one question: 'Do I feel lucky?' Well, do ya, punk?"
