“You're walking out on 85 grand?”
MGM's Bold Step into R-Rated Territory
In 1968, MGM was looking to break away from their family-friendly reputation and venture into more adult-oriented content. Based on Donald E. Westlake's Parker novel "The Seventh," they brought in Scottish director Gordon Flemyng fresh off his success with Great Catherine. With a stellar ensemble cast led by Jim Brown and a groundbreaking approach to racial representation in crime films, MGM was ready to push boundaries. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the 1968 Crime Films series with a conversation about The Split.
Breaking Down This Historic Heist
The Split represents several significant firsts - it was MGM's first R-rated film and featured Jim Brown as one of the first Black leading men in a major studio crime thriller. The film follows McClain (Brown) as he assembles an unlikely crew to rob the LA Coliseum during a playoff game. While the heist itself succeeds, the aftermath leads to betrayal, murder, and an unconventional alliance with a detective (Gene Hackman).
The Film's Place in Crime Movie History
- Innovative team-building sequences showing McLean testing each potential crew member
- Strong performances from an all-star cast including Ernest Borgnine, Donald Sutherland, Jack Klugman, Warren Oates, Diahann Carroll, James Whitmore, and Julie Harris
- Progressive handling of racial themes without making them the central focus
- A period-specific heist that could only work in the pre-digital age
- Quincy Jones's distinctive musical score setting the 60s mood
- The film's unique position as part of the Parker novel adaptation series
We both found The Split to be an entertaining and significant entry in the crime film genre, particularly noteworthy for its groundbreaking representation and MGM's willingness to push into edgier territory. The film successfully balances action, character development, and social commentary while delivering a satisfying heist narrative. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
Film Sundries
- Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatch
- The Cinematic Legacy of Donald E. Westlake
- Theatrical trailer
- Original Material and on Audible
- Letterboxd
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