very raw and gritty

Rating: 6/10 (3 September 2009)

this crime drama is based on an actual event that took place a few years before the release of the movie.basically it's about a bank robbery gone horribly wrong,from the get go.it's a slow mover,but there are some great quiet dramatic moments,as well s some great dialogue exchanges that must have been add libbed.unfortunately as the movie wears on,it becomes increasingly depressing,and harder to watch.it isn't a movie i could watch again right away.it just takes too much out of you.as for the acting,well,Al Pacino is good in the lead,and really brought out the intensity and hopelessness his character feels.but i really thought John Cazale was brilliant as the brooding,ticking time bomb,Sal.look for many cameos by actors just getting their start,as well.for me,Dog Day Afternoon is a 6/10