Braxton, Greg (June 26, 1998). "Embattled 'Magic Hour' to Try Different Strategy". The Big Lebowski (/ləˈbaʊski/) is a 1998 black comedy neo-noir crime movie created, developed, and directed by Joel and Ethan Coen. According to the board, the movie was "highly provocative and may possibly set off off unrest and communal violence".