Peter Bogdanovich's Targets (1968), also general Bogdanovich discussion via /r/movies

(Spoilers ahead for those who haven’t seen this)

What makes a debut picture strong? In my eyes, a strong debut picture is distinct, striking, unique, and makes one excited for the (ideally) memorable career that its director will embark upon.

Targets was a fine example of a great debut picture, and also a very good movie all-in-all.

In Targets we have a blunt premise, delivered with candid style. Showing us, without flair, care or dramatic reinforcement, how a husband, a man who presumes his wife and parents to disrespect him whilst balancing harmful thoughts about murder. A sequence wherein Spoilers is perhaps the best example of the type of film Targets is. Meanwhile, Boris Karloff portrays himself, essentially, a fading horror icon taking part in B-Pictures being enticed to star in low-budget films directed by young, idealistic fans of his (this character in question is played by Bogdanovich himself).

I haven’t seen a Bogdanovich film in my life (yep, never witnessed Last Picture Show), though from what I can gather, his films aren’t generally worth seeking out until a certain point after the mid-70’s, which essentially constitutes much of his career.

I really enjoyed this one. I love a good stylish thriller, and Targets certainly delivered in that aspect.

What is the consensus on this one, and is what I claim about Peter B. true, or does he have numerous classics well worth a watch?