Clint Eastwood's Western, Unforgiven.

Hackman garnered further acclaim for his performances in Francis Ford Coppola's The Conversation and as Lex Luthor in three Superman movies from 1978 to 1987. He maintained a steady career over the following decades, starring in acclaimed films like Hoosiers, The Firm, Crimson Tide, and Enemy of the State. One of his most memorable performances was in Wes Anderson's 2001 film The Royal Tenenbaums, which was also among his final roles, as he retired from acting after Welcome to Mooseport in 2004. Late last month, Hackman ed away at the age of 95 from Alzheimer's and heart disease.

The French Connection Becomes A Streaming Hit

It Ranks 9th On Reelgood's Chart

The French Connection has become a streaming hit following Gene Hackman's death. Directed by the late William Friedkin, based on the nonfiction book of the same name, the 1971 neo-noir action thriller follows two NYPD detectives in pursuit of a wealthy French heroin smuggler. Other than Hackman, the movie also stars Fernando Rey, Roy Scheider, Tony Lo Bianco, Bill Hickman, Eddie Egan, and many more.

Now, after Gene Hackman's death, the all-time great action thriller has become a streaming hit on Prime Video. Per Reelgood, The French Connection was the ninth most-watched movie on all streaming services for the week of February 27 to March 5, ranking above Nickel Boys. It ranked below other newer releases in The Substance, Conclave, Nosferatu, Flow, The Gorge, Venom: The Last Dance, A Real Pain, and September 5.

What The French Connection's Streaming Success Means For The Movie

It Remains An All-Time Great Action Thriller

Gene Hackman's ing has reignited interest in The French Connection, reaffirming its status as one of the greatest action thrillers ever made. Its gritty realism, fast-paced storytelling, and razor-sharp script set it apart, bolstered by Hackman's Oscar-winning performance as detective Popeye Doyle. It also features one of the greatest car chases in film history, further cementing its legacy. Decades later, The French Connection remains an essential and masterful piece of filmmaking for many reasons.

Source: Reelgood