A Bullet for Pretty Boy

A Bullet for Pretty Boy is a 1970 action-crime film directed by Larry Buchanan and starring pop idol Fabian, Jocelyn Lane and Astrid Warner. The film illuminates a seemingly forgotten chapter of American gangster history by painting a vivid, action-packed picture of the infamous criminal, Charles "Pretty Boy" Floyd.

The movie is set against the backdrop of the 1930s amid the dustbowl and economic depression. This turbulent era, characterized by widespread dissatisfaction and social revolution, provides a perfect milieu for the advent of Charles Floyd, who is portrayed by Fabian. The narrative masterfully intertwines the romance, robberies, and vigilantism often associated with outlaw tales to create an engaging and layered story.

A Bullet for Pretty Boy begins with Charles Floyd's humble beginnings, focusing on how the harrowing experiences of his youth shape his perception of an unjust world. The early part of the movie is dominated by impassioned portrayals of his life as a farm boy in Oklahoma, where his hardworking family's lands are seized by the banks. This event becomes a driving force behind Floyd's burning resentment against the financial institutions and his eventual decision to defy the law.

Protagonist Fabian excellently depicts Floyd's transformation from an indignant farm boy to a notorious criminal, emphazing his charisma which contributes to his growing reputation. Despite being on the wrong side of the law, Floyd is defined not as a mindless criminal, but as a desperate man resorting to crime out of anger and despair. This perspective lends depth to the narrative and keeps the audience engaged.

The film also delves into Floyd's personal life, particularly his relationship with his wife Ruby, played by Astrid Warner. It portrays the profound love between Pretty Boy and Ruby, a local girl who embraces Floyd despite his criminal life. This portrayal contrasts the harsh realities of Floyd's profession with the gentleness of his character in an intimate relationship, further deepening the emotional dimension of the film.

The character of Jocelyn Lane's Betty, a pool-hall cashier with a soft spot for Floyd, adds a complicated layer to the narrative with the nuances of an extra-marital relationship. The interactions between the characters offer a rich palette of emotions, striking a balance between the kinetic energy of Floyd's criminal escapades and the dramatic weight of his personal affairs.

Incorporating real-life events, A Bullet for Pretty Boy does not only offer a biographical account of the infamous bank robber, but it also provides insights into the socio-political realities of the era, particularly highlighting the impact of the economic depression. It epitomizes the desperation and despair of an era that drove many like Floyd to life of crime.

Larry Buchanan's direction is instrumental in maintaining a brisk narrative pace while ensuring attention to emotional detail. His skillful use of historical context strengthens the film's era authenticity and appreciation of the characters' motivations.

While Fabian's performance as Floyd stands out in the film, the rest of the cast helps to create a vividly believable web of intricate relationships around him. Astrid Warner, as Floyd's wife, Ruby, conveys a mix of strength, vulnerability and enduring love, while Jocelyn Lane delivers an engaging performance as the confident and independent Betty.

A Bullet for Pretty Boy's fast-paced action scenes coupled with swift car chases and adroitly choreographed shootouts, keep the adrenaline pumping. However, the film isn't just a reel of mindless action sequences. It also explores the psychological dimensions of crime, questioning the moral grounds of vigilante justice, thereby adding intellectual heft to the pulsating action.

Overall, A Bullet for Pretty Boy is an action-packed crime film rich in historical context and emotional depth. It is not only a portrayal of a notorious but charismatic criminal but also a snapshot of a tumultuous era in American history. Its exploration of the interplay between personal trauma, societal tumult, and criminality makes for an engaging, thought-provoking watch. It appeals to fans of fast-paced crime dramas and those interested in the historical basis of 1930s American gangster tales alike.