🎬 The Premise
Released in 2015, Last of the Independents: Don Siegel and the Making of 'Charley Varrick' enters the Documentary genre with a narrative focused on
Don Siegel’s classic crime thriller "Charley Varrick," made in 1972 in the wake of the immensely successful "Dirty Harry," stars Walter Matthau in what is probably the actor’s finest dramatic role, airshow pilot turned crop duster turned bank robber turned mob target Charley Varrick.
Under the direction of Robert Fischer, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
🎭 Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Kristoffer Tabori.
While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
🎥 Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Last of the Independents: Don Siegel and the Making of 'Charley Varrick' offers a
competent presentation. The cinematography
uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone.
The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
🌍 Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, Last of the Independents: Don Siegel and the Making of 'Charley Varrick' resonates with current
cultural themes in the Documentary space.
It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
📺 Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of early 2026, Last of the Independents: Don Siegel and the Making of 'Charley Varrick' is available in theaters worldwide.
For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
📖 Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of Last of the Independents: Don Siegel and the Making of 'Charley Varrick' centers on a unique premise within the Documentary landscape.
Don Siegel’s classic crime thriller "Charley Varrick," made in 1972 in the wake of the immensely successful "Dirty Harry," stars Walter Matthau in what is probably the actor’s finest dramatic role, airshow pilot turned crop duster turned bank robber turned mob target Charley Varrick. This feature-length documentary takes the viewer back to the time of the shooting of this cult item and features original interviews with Siegel’s son, Kristoffer Tabori, actors Andy Robinson and Jacqueline Scott, stunt driver and actor Craig R. Baxley, composer Lalo Schifrin and Howard A. Rodman, whose father co-wrote the screenplay.
The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 2015 cinema will find fairly predictable.
💡 Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Last of the Independents: Don Siegel and the Making of 'Charley Varrick' has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the
ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread.
Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Last of the Independents: Don Siegel and the Making of 'Charley Varrick' sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
📝 Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Last of the Independents: Don Siegel and the Making of 'Charley Varrick' (2015): with an audience rating of 5/10, the reception has been divisive.
It is a recommended for fans of Documentary cinema who appreciate attention to detail.