Cast
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Maurizio Merli
as Leonardo Tanzi
John Saxon
as Frank Di Maggio
Tomas Milian
as Luigi "Chinaman" Maietto
Gabriella Lepori
as Nadia
Renzo Palmer
as Commissioner Astalli
Claudio Undari
as Dario
Bruno Corazzari
as Cesare Ettore
Gabriella Giorgelli
as Maria Balzano
Marco Guglielmi
as Marchetti
Salvatore Billa
as Salvatore
Claudio Nicastro
as Fazi
Guido Alberti
as Uncle
Aldo Massasso
as Magistrate
Riccardo Garrone
as Natali
Fulvio Mingozzi
as Inspector Pisani
Crew
Director
- Umberto Lenzi
Producer
- Luciano Martino
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Crime/Thriller film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, The Cynic, the Rat & the Fist distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Umberto Lenzi 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 1977, 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 The Cynic, the Rat & the Fist took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 100 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 156 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 31 unique compositions.
- The film contains approximately 2334 individual shots.
- The costume department created over 141 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1977, when this film was released:
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Cynic, the Rat & the Fist 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 Funeral, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Cynic, the Rat & the Fist offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like King of the Ants and Armitage: Dual Matrix explore similar territory, The Cynic, the Rat & the Fist 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: February 3, 1977
- Runtime: 1h 40m
Where to Watch
