Midnight Cowboy, a 1969 American drama film, is renowned for its gritty portrayal of New York City and the unlikely friendship between two hustlers. Directed by John Schlesinger, the film is based on a novel by James Leo Herlihy. The production of Midnight Cowboy was a journey in itself, involving unique challenges and creative decisions that contributed to its success. This article delves into the making of this iconic film, highlighting the locations,
casting choices, and the creative team behind it.
Filming Locations and Set Design
The film's opening scenes were shot in Big Spring, Texas, in 1968, setting the stage for Joe Buck's journey from Texas to New York City. A notable feature in these scenes is a roadside billboard promoting Eddie Chiles' Western Company of North America, a common sight in the Southwestern United States during the late 1960s. As Joe Buck arrives in New York, the film captures the essence of the city through its choice of locations, including the Hotel Claridge in Midtown Manhattan, where Joe stays. This building, designed by D. H. Burnham & Company, was demolished in 1972, but its presence in the film adds authenticity to the setting.
The film also features a wild party scene, reminiscent of Andy Warhol's Factory, filmed at Filmways Studios in East Harlem. The set was decorated with original Warhol works rented from the Museum of Modern Art, adding a layer of cultural significance to the film. These carefully chosen locations and set designs played a crucial role in bringing the story to life.
Casting Choices and Performances
Casting for Midnight Cowboy was a meticulous process, with Jon Voight and Dustin Hoffman ultimately taking on the lead roles of Joe Buck and Rico "Ratso" Rizzo, respectively. Interestingly, Jon Voight, who portrayed the Texan Joe Buck, is a native New Yorker, while Dustin Hoffman, who played the streetwise Ratso, hails from Los Angeles. Voight was paid the Screen Actors Guild minimum wage for his role, a testament to his dedication to the project.
The film's casting process also saw Michael Sarrazin initially chosen for the role of Joe Buck, but he was replaced due to contractual issues. Director John Schlesinger and producer Jerome Hellman even approached Andy Warhol for a role, but he passed it on to his superstar Viva. These casting decisions, along with the actors' performances, were pivotal in shaping the film's narrative and emotional depth.
Creative Team and Challenges
The creative team behind Midnight Cowboy faced several challenges, including the film's initial X rating due to its content. The Motion Picture Association of America later re-rated it to R, allowing for a broader audience. The film's screenplay, adapted by Waldo Salt, was recognized for its excellence, winning the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.
Director John Schlesinger's vision and the dedication of the cast and crew resulted in a film that not only won the Academy Award for Best Picture but also left a lasting impact on American cinema. The making of Midnight Cowboy is a testament to the power of collaboration and creativity in filmmaking.
