Barfly

About This Movie

Barfly is a rough gem from Barbet Schroeder that dives into the lives of two misfits, Henry and Wanda. The film has this gritty, almost poetic vibe, capturing the essence of bar life in a way that feels both romantic and tragic. Mickey Rourke's performance as Henry is one of those raw portrayals that just sticks with you, and Faye Dunaway's Wanda has this chaotic charm that’s hard to shake off. The pacing suits the languid atmosphere—everything unfolds like a hazy night at the bar. It’s not flashy, but it’s got a certain authenticity, you know? The dialogue crackles with a kind of desperation that really grounds it. It’s a film that embraces life's messiness, not shying away from its darker corners.

Available on Blu-ray and DVD since 2015Shot on location in Los Angeles barsFeatures a screenplay by Charles BukowskiRourke and Dunaway both received acclaim for their roles