The Choirboys (1977) / Comedy-Thriller

MPAA Rated: R for brief nudity and language
Running Time: 119 min.

Cast: Charles Durning, Louis Gossett Jr., Perry King, James Woods, Tim McIntire
Director: Robert Aldrich
Screenplay: Christopher Knopf (based on the novel by Joseph Wambaugh)
Review published February 28, 1997

Director Robert Aldrich (The Longest Yard, The Frisco Kid) assembles a competent cast and makes an absolute mess.  He attempts to make an entertaining and humorous look at cops and their camaraderie with each other.  The film's humor level sinks even below Police Academy depths (if that's possible) while trying to infuse important social statements about sexism, racism, and homosexuality.  If anything the film seems to embrace these issues rather than portray them in any meaningful fashion.  

The film purports to be based on the Joseph Wambaugh novel, but I've read that he has disavowed any relation to the film.  If Wambaugh's reaction to it is any indication, you should take heed as I would love to disavow viewing it.  Oh, to have two hours of my life back!! The film is painfully unfunny, uninteresting, sloppily directed, shockingly offensive, and a start to finish bore.  I URGE EVERYONE READING THIS TO AVOID THIS FILM AT ALL COSTS!!!  You can thank me in advance. 

Qwipster's rating:

©1997 Vince Leo