Dog Day Afternoon

Frank’s Film Review: Dog Day Afternoon
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5

When it comes to films that have left an indelible mark on the history of cinema, Sidney Lumet’s 1975 crime drama Dog Day Afternoon is a title that stands tall. Based on a true story, this gripping tale of a bank robbery gone awry is more than just a heist film — it’s a raw, emotional exploration of human desperation, love, and the chaotic unpredictability of life. With Al Pacino delivering one of his most iconic performances, Dog Day Afternoon remains a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences nearly five decades after its release.

The story begins on a sweltering August afternoon in Brooklyn, New York, where Sonny Wortzik (Al Pacino) and his accomplice, Salvatore “Sal” Naturile (John Cazale), attempt to rob a local bank. Their goal? To secure enough money to fund a sex reassignment surgery for Sonny’s partner, Leon Shermer (Chris Sarandon). What was supposed to be a quick and simple heist quickly spirals into chaos when the duo discovers that the bank’s vault is nearly empty. To make matters worse, the police are alerted, and law enforcement, media, and a growing crowd of curious onlookers soon surround the building.

As the hours tick by, the situation becomes increasingly tense. Sonny, the more talkative and charismatic of the two robbers, takes on the role of negotiator, demanding safe passage to the airport and a plane to escape. Meanwhile, Sal, a quiet and intense figure, remains steadfastly loyal to Sonny but visibly uneasy about their predicament. The hostages, a mix of bank employees, are caught in the middle, their lives hanging in the balance as the standoff unfolds.

One of the film’s most memorable moments comes when Sonny steps outside the bank to address the crowd. In a moment of raw emotion, he begins chanting “Attica! Attica!” — a reference to the infamous 1971 Attica Prison riot. The crowd, initially hostile, begins to cheer for Sonny, seeing him as a symbol of rebellion against authority. This powerful, poignant scene encapsulates the film’s ability to blend social commentary with intense drama.

At the heart of Dog Day Afternoon is Al Pacino’s tour-de-force performance as Sonny Wortzik. Pacino captures the character’s complexity with remarkable depth, portraying Sonny as a man driven by love and desperation, yet capable of moments of humor and charm. His portrayal earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor and remains one of the defining roles of his illustrious career.

John Cazale, as Sal, delivers a hauntingly understated performance. Sal’s quiet demeanor and unwavering loyalty to Sonny make him a compelling and tragic figure. Cazale, who appeared in only five films before his untimely death, left an indelible mark on cinema, and his work in Dog Day Afternoon is a testament to his talent.

The supporting cast is equally impressive. Charles Durning shines as Detective Sergeant Eugene Moretti, the police negotiator who tries to defuse the situation with a mix of empathy and authority. Chris Sarandon, in a breakthrough role, brings vulnerability and authenticity to Leon, Sonny’s partner, whose struggles add another layer of emotional depth to the story.

Dog Day Afternoon was a critical and commercial success upon its release, earning six Academy Award nominations. Frank Pierson’s screenplay, which masterfully balances tension, humor, and humanity, won the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. The film grossed over $50 million worldwide on a modest $1.8 million budget, a testament to its universal appeal and Al Pacino’s magnetic star power. Viewers were captivated by the film’s raw intensity and its portrayal of the era’s social and cultural tensions, making it an essential cinematic experience.

Nearly 50 years after its release, Dog Day Afternoon continues to captivate audiences and inspire filmmakers. Its themes of social justice, human connection, and the complexities of identity are as relevant today as they were in the 1970s. The film’s ability to blend humor, drama, and social commentary ensures its place among the greatest movies of all time.

Frank Gaimari is an author, film reviewer, and actor based in Seattle. He lives with his husband and their two golden retrievers. Learn more about his work at http://FrankGaimari.com.