Bugsy Malone (1976)
Alan Parker's irresistible all-child gangster musical blends 1920s crime drama with showstopping songs and irresistible charm.
Bugsy Malone - Movie Information
- Original Title: Bugsy Malone
- Release Year: 1976
- Directed by: Alan Parker
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama, Action, Comedy, Music, Family
- Age Rating (US): G
- Runtime: 1h 33m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): July 22, 1976 (United Kingdom - U), September 15, 1976 (United States - G), November 4, 1976 (Germany - 6), August 25, 1976 (France), November 12, 1976 (Brazil)
- Alternative Titles: Ανήλικοι Ριφιφίδες (GR), Du rififi chez les mômes (FR), Quando as Metralhadoras Cospem (BR)
- Production Companies: Goodtimes Enterprises, Bugsy Malone Productions, Robert Stigwood Organization, National Film Trustee Company, The Rank Organisation, Paramount Pictures
- Production Countries: United Kingdom, United States of America
Bugsy Malone - Plot
New York, 1929, a war rages between two rival gangsters, Fat Sam and Dandy Dan. Dan is in possession of a new and deadly weapon, the dreaded “splurge gun”. As the custard pies fly, Bugsy Malone, an all-round nice guy, falls for Blousey Brown, a singer at Fat Sam's speakeasy. His designs on her are disrupted by the seductive songstress Tallulah who wants Bugsy for herself.
Bugsy Malone - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see the splurge guns, showstoppers, and 1920s mayhem in action:
Every year brings a great movie. Every decade a great movie musical!
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Bugsy Malone - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Alan Parker
Main Cast
- Scott Baio
- Jodie Foster
- Florrie Dugger
- John Cassisi
- Martin Lev
- Paul Murphy
- Sheridan Earl Russell
- Albin 'Humpty' Jenkins
- Paul Chirelstein
- Andrew Paul
Writers
- Alan Parker
Producers
- Alan Marshall
Bugsy Malone - FAQs
Where can you stream or watch Bugsy Malone?
Bugsy Malone is available to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. It can also be rented on Spectrum On Demand and watched for free on Kanopy. Check JustWatch for the most current availability in your region.
Why does Bugsy Malone feature an all-child cast?
Director Alan Parker conceived the film as a deliberate artistic choice, casting children in all roles — including the gangsters, showgirls, and speakeasy patrons — to create a playful, subversive contrast with the hard-boiled 1920s gangster genre. The result is a uniquely charming and satirical musical experience.
Who are the main actors in Bugsy Malone?
Bugsy Malone stars Scott Baio as the charming title character and Jodie Foster as the seductive Tallulah. Florrie Dugger plays Blousey Brown, John Cassisi portrays Fat Sam, and Martin Lev appears as Dandy Dan. The entire cast consists of child and teenage performers.
What is Bugsy Malone about?
Set in 1929 New York during Prohibition, the film follows rival gangsters Fat Sam and Dandy Dan as they battle for supremacy using splurge guns that fire whipped cream. Amid the chaos, easygoing Bugsy Malone pursues singer Blousey Brown while the alluring Tallulah competes for his affections.
Did Bugsy Malone win any awards?
Bugsy Malone earned significant recognition upon release, receiving eight BAFTA nominations including Best Film. Paul Williams won a BAFTA for Best Original Song Score. The film also earned Golden Globe nominations and is widely regarded as a landmark British musical that helped launch several young careers.
What is the age rating for Bugsy Malone?
Bugsy Malone is rated G by the MPA in the United States, making it suitable for all audiences. In the United Kingdom it received a U certificate. The film's playful tone, all-child cast, and whipped-cream weaponry keep the content entirely family-friendly despite its gangster setting.
Who wrote the songs for Bugsy Malone?
The songs for Bugsy Malone were written and composed by Paul Williams, the acclaimed American songwriter and performer. His score includes memorable numbers such as 'Fat Sam's Grand Slam,' 'My Name Is Tallulah,' and 'You Give a Little Love,' which became the film's beloved closing anthem.
How long is Bugsy Malone?
Bugsy Malone has a runtime of 93 minutes, or 1 hour and 33 minutes. Its brisk pace keeps the musical numbers, gangster comedy, and romantic storylines moving along at an energetic clip, making it an ideal watch for families and film enthusiasts of all ages.
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