This is certainly my favourite role from Dustin Hoffman as he turns in an outstanding performance as "Ratso". He hooks up with the dapper, but out of his depth cowboy "Buck" who arrives in New York all set to be a hustler, but ends up paying his first client for the sex she's supposed to pay him for! Initially, "Ratso" fleeces this gullible guy too, but gradually the two start to depend on one and other - which is as well for "Ratso" who is clearly not long for this world. His persistent cough is being worsened by the squalid conditions in which he, and latterly, "Buck" have to live and by their poverty row existence. This is a great story and John Schlesinger tells it with some panache. The relationship between the two men is honest and decent, even though that attribute could hardly be said to apply to either of them when it comes to anyone else: "Ratso" would probably have hustled his own grandmother given the chance. Their bond feels real, plausible - unsentimental and convincing; and the Waldo Salt screenplay ensures that the dialogue - though frequently quite sparing - is both poignant and humorous.

<em>'Midnight Cowboy'</em> is a beauty. It's one I've seen mentioned positively online many times down the years, especially on those four favourites videos that Letterboxd do with well known folk. Despite that I knew nothing coming in, which - as always - is the best way to view a flick. Dustin Hoffman's involvement was all that I did know heading into it, I wasn't even sure it was Jon Voight as the main guy until he started scowling his face - a distinctive look! I actually only know of him in film terms from 2003's <em>'Holes'</em>, he is memorable in that classic. In this, Voight is just as excelllent as Hoffman. They make for a fantastic pairing, I did thoroughly enjoy seeing their friendship build and build; even if it made the obvious, overhanging conclusion more and more saddening. Credit is due for the bit part actors in this, as well. Music-wise this is top notch too, even if that recognisable Harry Nilsson track is a touch overused. Away from that, I didn't actually know the "I'm walkin' here" quote came from this movie (I'm terrible with film quotes, clearly), though of course pretty cool to see it pop up unexpectedly.