OperaTicket

Hi Mr. Bakshi! I have a question about Madigan, the ultra-racist/homophobic cop in "Coonskin."

I read an interview you gave once, and you said how Madigan's own racism brings about his death. Back in high school, I wrote a literary analysis of "Coonskin," with an emphasis on queer theory. I made sure to incorporate that quote.

But in my paper, and to this very day, I've wondered about Madigan's sexuality. Why? His introduction scene, after he shoots the rats and heads off to a bar. If he hates the queer community so much, why does he go to that bar specifically?

When he talks to the bartender, some of his reactions seem...engaged. At a very subtle level. I have often wondered if Madigan secretly had homosexual feelings, but was unable to accept them. Clearly, he is a violent person. But combine this with his own, silent self-hate, and he begins to terrorize black Harlem residents, other gays - anything to distance himself from the truth, or to reinforce a sense of white/male/cisgender superiority. I see him as a violent, desperate, unhinged character.

Nonsense, or valid reading? I have always wondered what your intent was.

Edit: spelling

I knew something was going on in that bar scene. Madigan hesitates too long before rejecting the bartender's advances. That's what I love about your films - the subtext!

That said, I'm definitely writing more critical papers on "Coonskin" and "Fritz the Cat." I'm hoping to be a professor one day...hopefully at my alma mater, The New School. If I ever accomplish that dream, I'm definitely creating a class about your work. You have MANY fans on campus there. We would love it if you came to visit sometime!