MUBI

For me what is absolutely stunning about the film is it’s depiction of New York City at the time. From this other successful attributes are ignited. The the authenticity of the film provokes an inherent realism that cannot be reproduced, particularly the conversations and the acting. Furthermore, Cassavetes often times portray these attributes through mini conversation or scenarios which, sometimes are not necessarily connected to the plot but often times clue you in about the culture and race. I could be wrong in my analysis, however, I watched this really stressed out on a plane so who knows, but this is what I got out of it.

John Cassavetes vastly improvised and groundbreaking directorial debut still feels amazingly fresh today, Underlined with a fantastic Jazz score by Charles Mingus and saxophonist Shafi Hadi; Shadows takes you into the live of three siblings living in late 50’s New York City. Exploring love, interracial relationships, the struggle to stay true as an artist and the aimlessness and alienation of youth.
A true masterpiece that gets better with each viewing. (5/5)

Shadows is a fitting title for this film. The film deals with racial tension in a way that disintegrates the concept of ‘race’ as a social construction. The fact that it was made during a period culminating in civil rights affairs only intensifies its advocacy. The movie itself is an exceptional example of filmic jazz, not only in its soundtrack, but also the improvisational form of the entire work. As a result, the entire experience is of a kind that feels as though it’s growing on you.