OK, so maybe such a comparison has grown tired, but given the year this film was released and the more than likely inspiration it received from the former, it makes sense. Anyway, I just re-watched the Raro DVD edition of this classic 1973 Italo-crimer. I must say the film is even better the second time around as it allowed me to notice details I was previously unaware of. This film is easily one of the best Di Leo crime flicks and ranks as one of my favorite Mafia film of all time. The film begins with a fantastic opening sequence which is absolute exploding dummy heaven. That particular scene features Henry Silva blowing away a group of horny elderly Mafia bosses with a rifle mounted grenade launcher! What follows is a compelling Mafia story chronicling the rise of Silva's character to the top. Plenty of interesting events ensue, one of which features a montage of atrocities equal to 1,000 'Godfather' baptism scenes. Henry Silva plays one crazy mofo in what is perhaps his coolest role and Luis Enríquez Bacalov provides a truly awesome score (even if it is somewhat a rehash of his earlier work on 'Summertime Killer'). With plenty of action this is an absolute must see for fans of poliziotteschi. Also watch for Hollywood veteran Richard Conte and Spaghetti Western star Gianni Garko who appear in memorable roles.
