There’s a bit of Hal Ashby within his films. I didn’t know his dad killed himself when Hal was only 12, and that could explain the fascination with suicide in Harold and Maude.
Ashby has high praise for screenwriter Robert Towne who scripted The Last Detail. Hal’s rebellous and anti-authority side comes across in those characters.
He lost control of 8 Million Ways to Die (1986) which was botched in the editing room. Very sad the way Ashby's life and career ended. A bright light who became a bitter man, clashing with the film studio. But a wonderful run of films in the 70s.

*1001 Movies You Must See Before You Die*
Film noir. Mike is a tough guy in how he proactively goes after the truth and seeks answers. Not a typical hero, he has a shady job and doesn't put up with crap from anyone. Women throw themselves at him, presumably because of his rugged looks. He is too curious though, getting mixed up in matters which are none of his business. The most memorable scene is the opening with the mysterious, out of breath Christina. I went into the film blind, and I'm pleased I did, as the 1001 book unfortunately spoils vital parts of the story.

So many versions available on YouTube so I decided to go with the official dvd from the library. The score fits well for a thriller and particularly the chase ending stayed with me. I liked the cinematic approach to storytelling, pulling coat up over face, handcuffs, portraits on the walls, and so on. An impressive trick is when the family look up and we see the lodger (worm 's eye view) restlessly walking alone in his upstairs room. Thematically the same old from Hitchcock, this time in silent.