Bonnie and Clyde (1967, USA)

Aichi Hokeni Shimbun

The film Bonnie and Clyde captured the anarchic psychology of youth in the 1960s in Japan. So popular was it that not having seen it meant being out of step with the times.

Clyde (Warren Beatty), recently released from a reform school, attempts to steal a car—only to be interrupted by Bonnie (Faye Dunaway). It is their first meeting. Clyde is drawn to Bonnie’s boldness; Bonnie to Clyde’s audacity. Believing that together they have nothing to fear, they begin a spree of robberies. Soon they are joined by C.W., forming a trio whose near-miraculous skill at car theft brings them easy money.

The balance shifts with the arrival of Clyde’s brother Buck (Gene Hackman) and his wife Blanche. Blanche’s nagging temperament clashes with Bonnie’s fierce pride. Nevertheless, the five continue their crimes, expanding their territory. Eventually, their luck runs out. In Iowa, they are surrounded by law enforcement officers. After a fierce gunfight, Buck is gravely wounded. Clyde, Bonnie, and C.W. manage to escape as the net tightens, while Blanche remains behind to stay with her dying husband.

Once again a trio, they resume their thefts. After Bonnie expresses a longing to see her mother, they visit her hometown. Later, seeking refuge, they arrive at C.W.’s father’s farm. In exchange for his son’s safety, the father informs on them. Thus ends the brief, violent history of youthful love and lawlessness.