Targets (1968) Watch Online Free
The fate of a washed-up horror actor intersects with a psychotic sniper on a killing spree.
Targets is a psychological thriller directed by Peter Bogdanovich, which intertwines two seemingly unrelated narratives: one featuring a retired horror actor, Byron Orlok (played by Boris Karloff), and another about a young man, Bobby Thompson, who embarks on a killing spree. The film opens with Orlok, who is disillusioned with his career in horror films, contemplating his life as he attends a screening of his old films. Meanwhile, Bobby, a Vietnam War veteran, becomes increasingly disturbed and detached from reality. He begins his rampage by killing his family and then moves to a sniper attack from a clock tower, mirroring the real-life events of Charles Whitman’s 1966 shooting spree.
The film culminates in a tense confrontation between Orlok and Bobby, who is now targeting innocent people in the streets. The film’s structure combines elements of horror with contemporary social commentary, exploring the intersection of violence, paranoia, and the disillusionment of American society in the 1960s.
Targets is a unique blend of horror and thriller genres, combining classic monster movie tropes with the brutal realism of contemporary violence. The film is often seen as a commentary on the shifting landscape of American culture during the late 1960s, especially in light of the Vietnam War, the assassinations of public figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy, and the increasing prevalence of public shootings. The film’s juxtaposition of Orlok’s aging horror icon status with Bobby’s cold-blooded killing spree underscores a thematic exploration of the decay of American innocence and the rise of senseless violence.
The film also reflects on the role of violence in media and its impact on the public. In one key scene, Orlok watches an old film of himself, in which violence is implied but not shown, contrasting with the raw, visceral violence of Bobby’s actions. This difference serves as a critique of how society consumes violence—once a carefully crafted spectacle, now a disturbing reality. The film’s focus on violence from a distance—symbolized by Bobby’s sniper rifle—also evokes feelings of powerlessness, where death can come unexpectedly and from far away, amplifying the film’s sense of paranoia.
Targets had a profound impact on how filmmakers approached the genre, blending social commentary with horror. It was released in 1968, a turbulent year marked by political unrest and violence, making its themes of random, impersonal violence particularly relevant. The film’s exploration of the disintegration of the American dream, the alienation of individuals, and the societal fascination with violence resonates with audiences even today. The film was also a significant moment in the career of Peter Bogdanovich, who would go on to direct critically acclaimed films in the 1970s.
Boris Karloff’s performance as Orlok is both poignant and tragic, as he portrays a man who has lost his relevance in a world that no longer appreciates the kind of horror he represented. The contrast between his character’s gentle demeanor and the stark violence of Bobby’s actions is a key element of the film’s unsettling atmosphere.
After watching Targets, you’ll likely feel a mix of unease and introspection. The film’s stark portrayal of violence, combined with its examination of societal decay, can leave a lasting impression. The tension throughout the film builds to a nerve-wracking climax, and the themes of alienation and paranoia will likely resonate long after the credits roll. You may find yourself contemplating the nature of violence in media and its impact on real-world events. Ultimately, Targets is a film that challenges the viewer to confront uncomfortable truths about society, making it both a thought-provoking and unsettling experience
