Little Murders (1971)

Set against the chaotic backdrop of a financially crumbling New York City in the 1970s, Little Murders tells the eccentric tale of Patsy Newquist, an idealistic young woman who saves the apathetic Alfred Chamberlain from the clutches of a brutal gang. Alfred, a photographer by trade, is a nihilist at heart, viewing life through a lens of monochromatic indifference. Drawn to his enigmatic persona, Patsy falls for him and they embark on a relationship marked by their starkly contrasting outlooks. Their love story unfolds amidst the cacophony of a city plagued by random shootings, electrical blackouts, and a maelstrom of ethnic-racial conflict. Despite Alfred's pervasive urban violence and apathy, Patsy's family accepts him, adding a vibrant layer of familial warmth to their unconventional romance. However, when Patsy bravely attempts to inspire Alfred to find deeper meaning in life, their world spirals into a cruel twist of fate, sending shockwaves through their lives and the city that never sleeps. Alongside their journey, the city itself becomes a character, simmering with the tension of obscene phone calls, rusty water pipes, and an infectious paranoia that seeps into every corner. This pitch-black comedy explores the unsettling realities of an era, capturing the essence of a typical 1970s summer through the lens of a nihilistic New Yorker and his idealistic lover. Little Murders is a poignant exploration of love, life, and the complex human condition, all set within the raw, unfiltered environment of a city on the brink.

Little Murders is a comedy movie featuring Martin Kove.

Little Murders is currently streaming on Criterion Channel.