James L. Herlihy wrote the novel "Midnight Cowboy," which was later adapted into an Oscar-winning film. The novel was published in 1965 and tells the story of Joe Buck, a naive young Texan who moves to New York City to become a male prostitute. The film adaptation, released in 1969, starred Jon Voight as Joe Buck and Dustin Hoffman as his unlikely friend and mentor, Ratso Rizzo.

The film "Midnight Cowboy" was a critical and commercial success, winning three Academy Awards including Best Picture, Best Director for John Schlesinger, and Best Adapted Screenplay for Waldo Salt. It was the first and only X-rated film to win the Best Picture Oscar until the rating system was revised in the 1970s.

The novel and film are both considered classics of American literature and cinema, exploring themes of loneliness, friendship, and the harsh realities of urban life. James L. Herlihy's writing captures the gritty atmosphere of 1960s New York City, while the performances of Voight and Hoffman bring the characters to life with depth and humanity.

Despite its controversial subject matter and adult themes, "Midnight Cowboy" resonated with audiences and critics alike, earning a place in the pantheon of great American films. The story of Joe Buck and Ratso Rizzo's unlikely friendship and struggles to survive in a harsh and unforgiving world continues to captivate viewers to this day.

Whether you're a fan of the novel or the film, "Midnight Cowboy" remains a powerful and poignant exploration of the human experience. Its timeless themes and memorable characters have cemented its status as a classic of literature and cinema, earning it a well-deserved place in the annals of Oscar history.

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