Panned upon first release, Bonnie and Clyde has gone on to become one of the most popular movies of all-time. Which makes sense, given how much of a game-changer it was back in 1967 (though many critics failed to notice its greatness). Starring Faye Dunaway and Warren Beatty, Arthur Penn's masterpiece hones in on the story of the infamous real-life couple but veers slightly off-track. It's not all strictly true, and some liberties have been taken, yet this only serves to enhance the film's mythical feel. Influenced by the films of the French New Wave, Bonnie and Clyde was considered to be notoriously violent and sexual for its time and in the process it helped to transform the boundaries of cinema. But even if it hadn't managed any of that, it would still stand as iconic picture, because it has all the makings of a great film; like the heroes of its title, Bonnie and Clyde emits an unmistakable confidence that makes it - quite frankly - irresistible.
Sam Hill is an ardent cinephile and has been writing about film professionally since 2008. He harbours a particular fondness for western and sci-fi movies.
