Bonnie and Clyde

Arthur Penn's 1967 take on Bonnie and Clyde is one that is quite interesting. Instead of focusing on the violence that the duo committed on a daily basis, Penn chose to emphasize their obsessive desire to become household names. Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow were not bloodthirsty thieves and killers that they have been made out to be by some. Rather, they were portrayed in the film as a more romanticized couple that were more out for fame and recognition than getting rich. Throughout the film, Bonnie is seen writing and reciting her poems that she hope will make it out to the media eventually. The Barrow Gang is often excited by reading about their violent ventures in the newspaper as well. However, the real life couple was much more murderous than they appeared on film. The film is still a very effective narrative of their lives. The depiction of the two in this film appeals to audiences because of their charm and charisma. If they were depicted as ruthless murderers, I'm sure that some would still find them very appealing because of the popularity that villains in pop culture. But they still would not have the popularity and fame that they achieved because of their M.O. They truly were the first celebrity antiheroes.