Counterfeit World: Making 'To Live and Die in L.A.' (2003)

Counterfeit World: Making 'To Live and Die in L.A.' Poster

The magic and creation behind the making of William Friedkin's classic action film To Live and Die in L.A. (1985). It follows cast, crew and the director several years after the film sharing their experiences while working on the project, also including footage from the shooting, and they discuss in detail the conception of the most spectacular scenes filmed there and also the great debate about the different endings developed for the film.

Intro to 'Fake World: Making To Live and Die in L.A.'
"Fake World: Making 'To Live and Pass Away in L.A.'" is a retrospective documentary that supplies an extensive look at the making of the 1985 crime thriller directed by William Friedkin. The film is noted for its gritty portrayal of the criminal underworld in Los Angeles, its stylish aesthetics, and its influence on the crime genre. Launched in 2003, the documentary explores the production procedure, including interviews with the cast and team who share their experiences and insights from dealing with this cinematic classic.

Unpacking the Production
The documentary explores the various elements that added to the individuality of "To Live and Die in L.A". It takes audiences behind the scenes, going over the innovative instructions by William Friedkin, who was renowned for his earlier deal with films like "The French Connection" and "The Exorcist". The film was based upon the novel of the exact same name by Gerald Petievich, an ex-Secret Service representative, which provided an air of credibility to the narrative. The documentary underscores Friedkin's commitment to realism and his persistence on performing harmful stunts live, which contributed to the movie's raw and kinetic energy.

Cast and Characters
"Counterfeit World" commemorates the gifted ensemble cast, consisting of William Petersen, Willem Dafoe, John Pankow, and Debra Feuer, among others. The actors discuss the intricacies of their characters, offering a window into the mental depth and inspiration behind their on-screen personalities. William Petersen, who played Secret Service Agent Richard Chance, delves into the duality of his function, checking out themes of fascination and moral ambiguity. Willem Dafoe discusses his portrayal of the counterfeiter Rick Masters and the comprehensive research study he undertook to understand the art of counterfeit.

Visuals and Style
The visual style of "To Live and Die in L.A". was groundbreaking at the time of its release. The documentary highlights the movie's cinematography, with its vibrant and elegant representation of Los Angeles serving as a character in its own right. Interviews with the production crew expose the imaginative choices that shaped the film's aesthetic, from the color combination to the unconventional electronic camera angles. The renowned vehicle chase scene, which stays among the most memorable in movie theater history, is provided significant attention, showcasing the planning and accuracy required to carry out such a complicated series.

Impact and Legacy
"Counterfeit World: Making 'To Live and Die in L.A.'" highlights the movie's impact on the criminal offense thriller category. It highlights how Friedkin's unconventional method to storytelling and his rejection to follow genre expectations affected future directors and films. The documentary likewise touches upon the vital reception of the movie, which, although combined at the time of release, has since acquired a cult following and is considered as a traditional within the category.

Conclusion
In summary, "Counterfeit World: Making 'To Live and Die in L.A.'" offers an extensive and remarkable peek into the development of a film that continues to captivate audiences nearly 20 years later. By combining direct narratives from the imaginative group with extensive analysis of the film's groundbreaking methods and its cultural significance, the documentary serves not only as a tribute to "To Live and Die in L.A". however also as an educational resource for filmmakers and enthusiasts of the criminal activity thriller genre. It stands as a testament to the devotion and artistry required to make a movie that defies the test of time, influencing and inspiring numerous directors and audiences around the world.

Top Cast

  • William Friedkin (small)
    William Friedkin
    Himself
  • William Petersen (small)
    William Petersen
    Himself
  • John Pankow (small)
    John Pankow
    Himself
  • Bud S. Smith
    Himself (as Bud Smith)
  • Robby Müller
    Himself (archive footage)
  • Willem Dafoe (small)
    Willem Dafoe
    Himself
  • Barry Bedig
    Himself
  • Gerald Petievich
    Himself (archive footage)
  • Darlanne Fluegel (small)
    Darlanne Fluegel
    Herself
  • Buddy Joe Hooker (small)
    Buddy Joe Hooker
    Himself