Midnight Cowboy (1969) Review in 2025
A gritty and poignant drama about an unlikely friendship between a young Texan and a con artist in New York City.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for family viewing due to mature themes, strong language, and some nudity.
CineReview Recommendation
A must-watch for fans of drama, comedy-drama, and classic cinema, but not recommended for family viewing due to mature themes.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie follows Joe Buck, a young Texan who travels to New York City to become a gigolo, and Ratso Rizzo, a con artist who becomes his unlikely friend. As they navigate the city's underbelly, they form a deep bond, but their lives are marked by tragedy and heartbreak.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is a poignant and powerful exploration of the human condition, tackling themes of loneliness, friendship, and the American Dream.
acting9.50/10
The acting is superb, with Jon Voight and Dustin Hoffman delivering standout performances that bring the characters to life.
characters9.50/10
The characters are complex and multi-dimensional, with Joe Buck and Ratso Rizzo being particularly well-developed and relatable.
direction9.00/10
John Schlesinger's direction is masterful, capturing the gritty and realistic tone of the film while also conveying the emotional depth of the characters.
cinematography8.50/10
The cinematography is stunning, capturing the gritty and neon-lit landscape of 1960s New York City.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The movie's poignant and powerful story, complex and multi-dimensional characters, and masterful direction make it a standout classic.
Cons
Some viewers may find the mature themes and strong language off-putting.
Notable Quotes
"I'm gonna be a cowboy, a cowboy from Texas."
"I'm gonna be a gigolo, a gigolo from Texas."
"You're a very strange boy, Joe Buck."
