At face value, "The Panic in Needle Park" might just look like a before-they-were-famous situation for Al Pacino. But I wish to assert that it is definitely more than that. He plays heroin addict Bobby, who hooks up with homeless woman Helen (Kitty Winn) and gets her addicted. The movie mostly focuses on how their addiction affects their relationship in various ways. There are some pretty grim, ugly portrayals of what the addiction does to them; this movie is as far from sugar-coated as can be (you have to admit that even "The Godfather" sort of glamorized mafia life). But don't get me wrong. The gritty portrayal is what makes the movie so good. I do recommend the movie to everyone, although you should avoid if you have a weak stomach. The only other recognizable cast member is Raul Julia.
Review of The Panic in Needle Park
