I Knew It Was You: Rediscovering John Cazale [DVD]

I Knew It Was You: Rediscovering John Cazale a film by Richard Shepard

Though John Cazale isn't a household name, the five feature films he appeared in during his short life are movies that are regarded as perennial American classics.  The character actor can be found in The Godfather, The Conversation, The Godfather Part II, Dog Day Afternoon and The Deer Hunter.  To many he's "the guy who played Fredo", but to those who knew him and worked alongside, Cazale was an actor unlike any.

This short documentary consists of film clips, archival photos and footage and candid interviews from co-stars Meryl Streep (Streep and Cazale were also romantically involved), Al Pacino, Robert De Niro and Gene Hackman.  Directors Francis Ford Coppola and Sidney Lumet and followers Steve Buscemi, Philip Seymour Hoffman and Sam Rockwell are also featured providing analysis and admiration of Cazale's artistry.

After watching I Knew It Was You, I feel compelled to revisit these films and look a little closer at this mysterious supporting character.