Clearly an artistically crafted film, loaded with some of the most outstanding acting ever. Very poignant, full of pathos. Several memorable scenes. Oscar-worthy performance from Ben Johnson. But I kept expecting a plot to pop up and make itself seen. Essentially the movie was one scene after another of country people rutting like hogs. Sure, I realize that's one of the themes of the movie, but ultimately, when Sam died the life of the picture went with it. Aside from Sam I couldn't get interested in any other character. There was no tension for me; I was not hanging on the next scene to see what was coming. I figured it would be just more of the same--which it usually was. And then they die empty. No surprises.
Review of The Last Picture Show
