Search - Bobby Deerfield on DVD

An Overlooked Classic in Pacino's Portfolio

Cameron Young | 04/06/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This has got to be one of Pacino's best -- and deserves to stand alongside his more well-known classics. But if you're looking for the slow burn-to-rage formula Pacino mastered in "Serpico" and "Dog Day Afternoon," look elsewhere. This is an altogether different film. Silence is used to great effect. The viewer is left to ponder dialogue and action rather than having the characters explain.As the rigid Formula One driver who has never considered death -- until a crash and a dying girl are suddenly thrust upon him -- we watch Pacino undergo a convincing change. Little by little we see a simple adage, 'everything is sweeter when you take a risk,' take hold and help him reclaim the reality of his life. Deerfield's story -- and the power of that little phrase -- should be a motto for us all! And the irony of this movie is that the story upon which it is based, by Erich Maria Remarque, is called Heaven Has No Favorites.Pacino once said that he felt closer in spirit to this character than any other he'd played, and it's not difficult to see why. The onscreen romance between Deerfield and Lillian Moretti also became an true-life love affair between Pacino and actress Marthe Keller, who gives a remarkably sympathetic peformance.It doesn't hurt that the setting for this film is summer in late '70s Europe, with terrific scenes in Switzerland, Paris, Florence, and the Tuscan countryside. (Someday, this viewer will treat himself to Leukerbad to Milan drive a la Bobby). And it also doesn't hurt that the soundtrack was composed by the master of '70s movie music, Dave Grusin.Now if the powers that be will only re-release "Bobby Deerfield" on DVD, concurrently with the soundtrack on CD, we'll all find a bit more happiness in our lives."

The Europe that used to be.....

Capt. Freaky | Oakland, CA | 03/25/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Watch this film if you are one of us "40 somethings" that used to frequent Europe in the 1970's, as teenagers...in search of new love (a.k.a SEX!) and finding oneself.

I agree with one of the reviews posted here that says this film is "a mood piece". And that it is! More than any "deep story" about a race driver etc...or the life and death of a young, eccentric woman....its simply a beautiful film.

I was not surprised to learn today that Sydney Pollack directed this fine cinematic artwork. He is a very capable director, just watch "Out of Africa" if you want to see some exceptional film making!

I gave this film 3 stars for the calm, romantic, almost "haunting style" the film projects onto the viewer....and Pacino's 1976 Alfa Romeo GTV sports car, driving around those old streets of Italy rated 2 stars all by itself!

If you loved the Europe of the 1970's...before it became "Americanized" and full of McDonald's etc....this is a throwback film classic for you. If you never visited Europe in the '70's....I don't recommend this film to you. Its for those of us "who know what it used to be like"...and wish it were still that way.

Finally...why on God's earth is this film not released onto DVD format? When you see all the crap that is available out there on DVD...how could this film be overlooked? Give me a break!"

Adventure in evolution of new relationship in Europe

Tina Morris | 03/29/1999

(4 out of 5 stars)

"How do people come to understand each other in a new relationship and overcome the obstacles that are largely their own creation? One of the two knows something and is trying to help the other go beyond his limitations so they can be together on the terms she is compelled to follow. Their struggle and the beautiful European countryside settings made this an engrossing and rewarding experience for me. I also enjoyed the feel of the "culture of Europe." Also, I don't believe I saw anyone shot. or a gun at all."