'To Live and Die in L.A.' With Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Sean Fennessey - The Rewatchables Recap

Podcast: The Rewatchables

Published: 2026-03-17

Duration: 2 hr 13 min

What Happened

William Friedkin's 1985 film 'To Live and Die in L.A.' was dissected by Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Sean Fennessey, focusing on its impact and unique elements. They noted Friedkin's use of then-obscure band Wang Chung for the film's soundtrack, which became a standout feature. The hosts highlighted how Friedkin's decision to have William Petersen perform his own stunts, including a dangerous bungee jump, added authenticity to the film.

The conversation included the film's depiction of Los Angeles as a violent and cynical wasteland, captured through the lens of cinematographer Robbie Müller. This portrayal was described as both gritty and stylish, setting a tone that distinguished it from other 1980s crime films. The film's intense car chase sequence, taking six weeks to shoot, was praised for its innovation, with Friedkin opting for practical effects rather than CGI.

Bill Simmons pointed out the film's influence on future crime dramas, comparing it to Michael Mann's 'Heat' but without what he considered unnecessary subplots. The hosts discussed Friedkin's career trajectory, noting that despite some commercial failures prior to this film, 'To Live and Die in L.A.' marked a comeback for the director, showcasing his skill in creating suspenseful and visually compelling narratives.

Chris Ryan and Sean Fennessey also discussed the casting of William Petersen and Willem Dafoe, noting Petersen's athleticism and Dafoe's complex portrayal of a villain. They considered Petersen's role as a missed opportunity for a larger Hollywood career, as his choices post-film led him away from major stardom.

The podcast touched on the film's commentary on the thin line between good and evil, a recurring theme in Friedkin's work. This was illustrated through the characters' morally ambiguous actions, particularly Petersen's character, whose relentless pursuit of justice blurs ethical boundaries.

The hosts debated the film's legacy and its place among other iconic 1980s movies, concluding that its unique blend of action, style, and music has solidified its status as a cult classic. They also considered the film's impact on the depiction of Los Angeles in cinema, noting its influence on later works that explore the city's underbelly.

Key Insights

• William Friedkin's use of Wang Chung for the soundtrack of 'To Live and Die in L.A.' was initially met with skepticism, yet it became an iconic element of the film, enhancing its atmospheric depth.
• The film's portrayal of Los Angeles as a 'violent, cynical wasteland' was achieved through Robbie Müller's cinematography, which captured the city's less glamorous, gritty side.
• 'To Live and Die in L.A.' features an intense car chase that took six weeks to film, emphasizing practical effects over CGI, which Friedkin believed added to the film's authenticity.
• William Petersen's casting was seen as a pivotal choice for the film, showcasing his athleticism and potential for stardom, although his subsequent career choices diverted him from becoming a major Hollywood star.