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