zoom_in Click to enlarge

Barfly

▲ ▼

description Barfly Overview

Barfly is a 1987 black comedy film based on the semi-autobiographical work of Charles Bukowski. The story follows Henry Chinaski, a character created by Bukowski himself, during his period of heavy drinking in Los Angeles. The screenplay was commissioned by Barbet Schroeder and published prior to the film’s production.

Sources: en.wikipedia.org

info Barfly Specifications

Country	United States
Year	1987

help Barfly FAQ

Did Charles Bukowski write the screenplay for 'Barfly'?

Yes, Charles Bukowski wrote the semi-autobiographical screenplay himself, based on his experiences as a heavy-drinking writer in Los Angeles. Director Barbet Schroeder had personally commissioned the script from Bukowski. The screenplay was later published as a standalone book.

Who stars in 'Barfly' alongside Mickey Rourke?

Mickey Rourke plays Henry Chinaski, Bukowski's alter ego, while Faye Dunaway co-stars as Wanda Wilcox, his fellow barfly and love interest. The cast also includes Alice Krige as a literary publisher and J.C. Quinn as the bartender Eddie. The film was released in 1987.

Did Barbet Schroeder direct 'Barfly'?

Yes, Swiss director Barbet Schroeder directed the film, which was released through Cannon Films. Schroeder famously threatened to cut off his own finger with a chainsaw on camera if Cannon's Menahem Golan pulled the funding. He had been trying to get the project off the ground for years.

Is Henry Chinaski in 'Barfly' based on Charles Bukowski?

Yes, Henry Chinaski is Charles Bukowski's recurring fictional alter ego, appearing across multiple novels and stories. In 'Barfly,' Chinaski reflects Bukowski's years of drinking in downtown Los Angeles bars before achieving literary recognition. The character also appears in Bukowski novels such as 'Post Office' and 'Women.'

swap_horiz

Looking for Barfly alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward