Cast
View AllLou Castel
as Carlo
Beba Lončar
as Olga
Adolfo Celi
as Inspector Vezzi
Massimo Serato
as Uncle Fifi
Umberto D'Orsi
as Romano, Don Salvatore's lawyer
Renato Baldini
as Marshal Notarantonio
Consalvo Dell'Arti
as Superintendent Portella
Antonio La Raina
as Mauri
Carlo Landa
as Roversi
Carla Mancini
as Nightclub Employee
Renato Malavasi
as Vicenzino Rocca
Fortunato Arena
as Don Salvatore Aniello
Domenico Maggio
as Garrù
Alfredo Adami
as The cashier (uncredited)
Ricciotti Albanese
as Newsstand employee (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Giuseppe Vari
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Who Killed the Prosecutor and Why? represents a fascinating example of Thriller cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Giuseppe Vari brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1972, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Who Killed the Prosecutor and Why? took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 85 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 128 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1972, when this film was released:
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Who Killed the Prosecutor and Why? shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Mad Dog Killer, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Who Killed the Prosecutor and Why? subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Gang War in Milan and Police Intervene in the House of Love explore similar territory, Who Killed the Prosecutor and Why? stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: April 15, 1972
- Runtime: 1h 25m