The journey of 'Little Murders' from a stage play to a film is a fascinating tale of adaptation and transformation. Originally penned by Jules Feiffer, the story was inspired by the assassination of John
F. Kennedy and the societal madness Feiffer perceived in the Vietnam era. The play's initial Broadway run in 1967 was short-lived, lasting only seven performances, but it found success in London and later Off-Broadway. The transition to film, directed by Alan Arkin, brought new challenges and opportunities, ultimately resulting in a unique cinematic experience.
The Play's Origins and Challenges
Jules Feiffer's inspiration for 'Little Murders' stemmed from the chaotic political climate of the 1960s. He saw the breakdown of authority and urban violence as metaphors for deeper societal issues. Initially conceived as a novel, Feiffer struggled with the format and eventually turned to playwriting, completing the first draft in just three weeks. Despite its promise, the Broadway production faced mixed reviews and was deemed an "atrocious production" by Feiffer himself. The play's failure highlighted the difficulties new American plays faced on Broadway, lacking critical and producer support.
The play's fortunes changed with a successful London production by the Royal Shakespeare Company, which Feiffer credited with saving his sanity. The play was later revived Off-Broadway in 1969, directed by Alan Arkin, and ran for 400 performances, earning Feiffer an Obie Award. This success paved the way for the film adaptation, although Feiffer had no creative involvement in the Off-Broadway production.
Transitioning to Film
The film adaptation of 'Little Murders' faced its own set of challenges. Initially, Elliott Gould, who starred in the Broadway production, planned to produce the film with Jean-Luc Godard as director. However, disagreements over the script led to Godard's departure. Alan Arkin, who had directed the successful Off-Broadway revival, was eventually persuaded to direct the film, marking his feature film directorial debut.
Feiffer adapted the screenplay, adding new scenes and characters, but admitted to making compromises that affected the film's quality. Despite these challenges, the film was completed under budget and released in 1971. Critics praised Arkin's directorial debut, noting the film's emotional impact and its blend of comedy with serious commentary on violence.
Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, 'Little Murders' received a limited release to allow critical reception to grow. Critics like Roger Ebert and Gene Siskel praised the film for its reflection of America's darker moods and its ability to provoke thought. The film's unique perspective on urban violence and societal breakdown resonated with audiences, cementing its place as a significant work in American cinema.
The film's legacy continues, with its themes of societal madness and authority breakdown remaining relevant. 'Little Murders' serves as a testament to the power of adaptation and the challenges of translating a stage play to the screen, offering insights into the creative process and the impact of societal issues on art.
