Author: Grace Williams

The Night Of The Juggler: Review. Re-release by Kino Lorber.

Probably boasting one of the longest chase scenes in film history, The Night of the Juggler has long hovered in cult obscurity, outshined by similar films Dog Day Afternoon and The Warriors. Thanks to a new 4K restoration, the film finally gets a proper showcase—complete with all its grime, tension, and unrelenting street-level paranoia intact.

The plot is a classic New York affair: A former cop’s daughter is mistakenly kidnapped by a deranged man who believes he’s nabbed a millionaire’s child. It’s easy for him to do so, the children are styled and look almost identical, which could perhaps could have lead to a weird Parent Trap style sequel. What follows is a relentless and at times unbelievable pursuit across Manhattan, with James Brolin’s Nick fiercely determined to retrieve his daughter by any means necessary. And I mean any means.. it’s a trains, planes and automobiles kinda situation (okay, maybe not trains).

What makes The Night of the Juggler stand out is its authentic depiction of Manhattan in the 80s which is not a pleasant one. Although effectively a hostage film, the depiction of the affects of property developers, lost businesses, community conflict and ultimately, poverty are expertly conveyed through the eyes of our kidnapper. The song ‘Open Letter (to a landlord’ by Living Colour was on repeat in my head whilst watching this film.

James Brolin gives an over the top performance, soaked in sweat and fury, while Cliff Gorman’s kidnapper is unsettling, ranging from sinister to lunacy gradually throughout the film. For those who like the outrageous, there’s an amazing sub-plot where an old foe of Brolin’s, a corrupt cop who Brolin took down, relentlessly hunts him on the streets, blasting through cafes with a shotgun… it’s a weird insertion and is laugh out loud funny at points.

Despite its cult status, The Night of the Juggler has long been underserved by home video. This 4K restoration not only corrects that oversight, it invites a reevaluation. Beneath its exploitation trappings lies a brutal city symphony, a proto-Falling Down on amphetamines. It’s an artefact of a city (and a genre) that no longer exists.

Final Verdict:

A raw, unrelenting urban thriller, newly revitalised. The Night of the Juggler in 4K is not just a cleaner print, it’s a resurrection. Recommended for fans of Death Wish, Taxi Driver, and the nastier corners of New York cinema.

Brute 1976: Review.

Brute 1976 is a retro-styled horror film directed by Marcel Walz, known for his stylised contributions to the indie horror scene (Blind, Pretty Boy). Set in the over-saturated desert of 1976, the story follows a group of models and creatives traveling to a remote location for a photo shoot. Their plans unravel when they stumble upon Savage, an eerie, abandoned town that hides a deadly secret.  As they explore the decaying remnants of the settlement, the group soon realises they’re not alone, and something brutal is watching.

A retro setting with a lone, desert town provides an ideal backdrop for tension-building. The vast isolation amplifies the sense of danger and amplifies suspense, effectively creating that signature slasher unease. At the same time, there does seem to be a slasher-film checklist that seems to be ticked off, but perhaps less is more. 

There’s no denying this film is gory, with a pretty explicit set piece that made my husband whelp. However, some of the effects budget could have been shifted to the cinematography or casting to create a more authentic experience. The plot is unexpected, and not necessarily in a good way. There’s a moral message here about tradition and values, but at times, it’s lost. 

As with many slasher fare, characters in the trailer appear to be archetype; social group, photographer, wandering victim. Unless the full film breaks from cliché, emotional stakes may feel superficial. The lone abandoned town inhabited by a killer is a well-worn slasher formula. Without unique twists, Brute 1976 might feel too familiar for viewers seeking fresh horror.

If you’re a fan of retro-tinged slasher fare, especially those craving a throwback to pulpy, 70s horrorBrute 1976 looks like a promising genre piece. Marcel Walz seems to be leaning into mood and tension over overt special effects, which should appeal to purists. However, if you’re after strong character arcs or plot innovation, temper your expectations.