The Dude Abides

The Coen Brothers' stoner/detective/quest movie, 1998's The Big Lebowski, is endlessly rewatchable, as its phenomenal DVD sales and an official Lebowski Fest are proof enough of its staying power. You've probably watched it enough times that once we start quoting our favorite lines you'll be able to finish them. Us:...

By Jesse Hughey

October 7, 2010

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The Coen Brothers' stoner/detective/quest movie, 1998's The Big Lebowski, is endlessly rewatchable, as its phenomenal DVD sales and an official Lebowski Fest are proof enough of its staying power. You've probably watched it enough times that once we start quoting our favorite lines you'll be able to finish them. Us: "This isn't Nam..." You: "This is bowling. There are rules." Us: "This is what happens..." You: "...when you fuck a stranger in the ass!" Us: "That rug..." You: "...really tied the room together." And so on. But while the hilariously quotable lines are a great part of its appeal, the great visual impact of the cinematography--especially during the dream sequences--is lost watching it on a TV screen. Think about the first time you saw it, which was hopefully on the big screen: Remember that (OK, probably chemically assisted) "Whoa!" you let out when the POV moves inside a bowling ball rolling down the lane? Way more impressive in a movie theater. Relive it or experience it for the first time midnight Friday or Saturday at the Inwood Theater, 5458 W. Lovers Lane, as part of the Midnight Madness series. Tickets are $10. Call 214-764-9106.
Oct. 8-9, 2010

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