Barfly

Sometimes in order to appreciate the present we have to look to the past.  I've decided to reset an American classic from 1987.  When Mickey Rourke first appeared on the screen as Henry Chenaski in the film Barfly the acclaim was instantaneous.  Chenaski, an alcoholic and poetic train wreck, is based on an autobiographical character created and featured in many works by writer Charles Bukowski.  The setting is the late seventies Hollywood dive bar scene.  It's a filthy, colorless, and accurate portrayal of the Boulevard at the time...not that much has changed except the sushi joints and condos.  

Award winning Director Barbet Shroeder got dark, incredible performances out of Rourke and his costar Faye Dunaway.  The two of them find perfect compatibility in scotch and carelessness.  So convincing was Rourke as Chenaski it would be hard to believe he wasn't drinking and sleeping in an alley somewhere near the production.  In the midst of the depression and addiction of the characters the comedy comes early and often.  Rourke's fist fights with Frank Stallone's character Eddie in the alley are epic.

To understand Mickey's award winning performance in Aronofsky's The Wrestler, Barfly is a must see and a great find on DVD for the true Rourke fan.  Films like Factotum, Leaving Las Vegas, and Affliction can all thank Barfly, Bukowski, and Rourke for opening the door.