Castling in the long side

In this revisionist neo-noir, private investigator Philip Marlowe is drawn into a complex web of murder and deceit when his friend Terry Lennox asks for a favor: to drive him to the Mexican border. Upon his return, Marlowe finds Lennox's wife dead and himself implicated in the crime. As he navigates the seedy underbelly of Los Angeles, Marlowe encounters a cast of eccentric characters, including gangsters, a troubled alcoholic writer, and a mysterious woman, all while trying to clear his name and uncover the truth.

The Long Goodbye was met with critical acclaim, with many praising its unconventional approach to the classic detective genre and Robert Altman's distinctive directorial style. Elliott Gould's portrayal of Marlowe was particularly noted for its departure from traditional tough-guy archetypes. The film has since become a celebrated example of revisionist filmmaking.

• Praised for its stylish direction and moody atmosphere.

• Elliott Gould's unconventional portrayal of Philip Marlowe was a standout.

• Seen as a brilliant deconstruction of the classic detective noir.

Google audience: Audience reviews frequently highlight the film's unique, laid-back take on the noir genre and Elliott Gould's memorable performance as a somewhat bumbling yet persistent private eye. Many appreciate its witty dialogue and atmospheric depiction of 1970s Los Angeles.

Nominated for the Palme d'Or at the 1973 Cannes Film Festival.

The film's jazz score, composed by John Williams, features a recurring theme song "The Long Goodbye" which is heard in various arrangements throughout the movie, often jarringly or ironically.