Wild 90

Wild 90 is an experimental cult film that debuted in 1968, highlighting the directorial debut of legendary American novelist Norman Mailer. Challenging the conventions of traditional narrative and filming, Wild 90 plunges directly into the madness of an uncensored and raw exploration of creativity and experimental cinema.

The movie features Norman Mailer himself, an innovative figure who already possessed a reputation for pushing boundaries in literature. As an author and intellectual, Mailer is noted for his explorations of American society and culture. His commitment to challenge and reshape the public's perception is what catalyzed his venture into filmmaking. In addition to Mailer, the film features Buzz Farber and Mickey Knox, both close associates of Mailer’s who were involved in the New York City theatrical and literary scene of the 1960

The narrative of Wild 90, set predominantly within the labyrinth of a single night, unfolds within the confined environment of a run-down New York City apartment. Throughout its roughly 90-minute run time — hence the "90" in its title — the film immerses the viewer in the loud, chaotic, and seemingly nonsensical dialogue between three mobsters played by Mailer, Farber, largely improvised and often profanity-laden.

A departure from the refined scripts and structured narratives of classical cinema, Wild 90 captures the raw essence of spontaneous human interaction. Instead of a pre-set storyboard, the characters are driven by impromptu dialogue and unrehearsed actions, providing an uninterrupted, genuine portrayal of character interaction. The movie skews the linear plotlines we often expect from cinema, building upon the characters' confused ramblings, boisterous laughter, and rough banter. Their conversations, never guided by a script, venture into unpredictable territories, providing a unique, unfiltered look into the complex personalities of each character. This aspect also reflects the candid themes of confusion, apprehension, and delirium inherent in the movie.

One of the significant highlights of the film is its uncompromising devotion to realism, which is somewhat dictated by its production conditions. The lack of a big Hollywood budget forced Mailer to make use of a minimalist shooting style. The movie was entirely filmed with a hand-held camera, primarily in close-ups, granting the film an intimate, overly personal feel that further amplifies the viewing experience. The grainy black-and-white cinematography not only heightens the gritty, discomforting atmosphere but also parallels the stripped-down, behind-closed-doors ambiance of the setting.

Restricted to a low-budget production, Mailer's decision to make use of hand-held cameras and diegetic sounds on set also emanates a documentary-like environment. Each character's demeanour, accent, and even physical matter are filmed as directly and intimately

as possible. This conception became a landmark for future independent and experimental film directors while also aligning with the spirit of French New Wave, Italian Neorealism, and American Cinema Verité.

It is also worth noting that Wild 90 isn't a film for everyone. Its avant-garde approach, the brash vulgarity, and the confounding narrative may confuse or disengage casual movie watchers. However, if you can embrace the film's loose structure, you'll find yourself immersed in an unpredictable interchange of ideas and emotions.

Nevertheless, Wild 90 allows us to see how boundaries can be pushed and expanded in film. While it may not have set any trends or significantly impacted mainstream cinema, it holds a unique place in the realm of experimental film. A complex piece of art that doesn't promise to be likable or easily understood, Wild 90 stands as one of those peculiar moments in film history when a noticeable literary figure pushed the boundaries of visual storytelling. Whether you are a fan of experimental cinema or simply interested in the artistic pursuits of Norman Mailer, Wild 90 is a unique cinematic experience that you wouldn't want to miss.