Dive into any online movie forum and you’re instantly greeted by passionate arguments about what qualifies as a cinematic masterpiece. These debates are entertaining, but seldom do we get a front-row seat to witness such a clash of opinions between legendary directors themselves. That’s precisely what makes the behind-the-scenes featurette on the 40th Anniversary Blu-ray release of William Friedkin’s “Sorcerer” so irresistible. Get ready for a hilarious showdown as Friedkin and Refn Clash over their contrasting views on what truly defines a masterpiece.
The featurette features a conversation between Friedkin, the legendary director behind “The Exorcist” and “The French Connection,” and Nicolas Winding Refn, the Danish auteur known for his stylish neo-noir films like “Drive.” The discussion starts off on a promising note, with both directors waxing poetic about classics like “Citizen Kane” and “2001: A Space Odyssey.” But then, things take a sharp turn.
Refn throws out a bold statement, declaring his own film “Only God Forgives” a masterpiece. Friedkin, clearly taken aback, responds with a mock cry for medical attention. “Is there a doctor in the house? We need to get a medic in here…if you think that’s a masterpiece then what is ‘Citizen Kane?'”
Also, Read Every Nicolas Winding Refn Film Ranked
Refn attempts to defend his film by mentioning its tight budget, but Friedkin cuts him off with a blunt, “Who gives a shit?!” This is where the gold is. Witnessing two titans of cinema, both passionate about their craft, engage in such a playfully antagonistic exchange is pure joy. Refn doesn’t back down though, going on to claim “Drive,” released just four years prior at the time of the filming, is also a stone-cold classic.
Friedkin, clearly enjoying the back-and-forth, throws out a hilarious line that deserves a place in every cinephile’s arsenal: “Four years is a zip, it’s not even a blip! It’s not even a pimple on the asshole of humanity, four years!”
The entire exchange clocks in at under two minutes, but it’s packed with comedic gold. It’s a must-watch for anyone who enjoys a good debate about movies, or simply appreciates seeing a couple of talented filmmakers playfully jab at each other. And hey, you might just pick up a new comeback for your next movie night argument.
