Cast
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Janet Leigh
as Mary Ann
Robert Hoffmann
as Jean-Paul Audry
Klaus Kinski
as Erich Weiss
Riccardo Cucciolla
as Agostino Rossi
George Rigaud
as Gregg Hutchinson
Adolfo Celi
as Mark Milford
Edward G. Robinson
as Prof. James Anders
Jussara
as Setuaka
Miguel del Castillo
as Manager
Luciana Angiolillo
as
Valentino Macchi
as (credit only)
Anny Degli Uberti
as
Aldo Bonamano
as Mary Ann's Boss
Fulvio Mingozzi
as Milford's Thug (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Giuliano Montaldo
Producer
- Arrigo Colombo
- Giorgio Papi
Reviews
JPV852
Entertaining heist-thriller with fine performances from all involved (would've liked seeing Edgar G. Robinson more but all in all was engrossed with the heist itself and the twist or two. Not sure if it ranks high amongst others in the genre (Ocean's Eleven is the top of my list) but still well worth checking out. **3.75/5**
May 30, 2022
CinemaSerf
This is a surprisingly good little crime drama that has been largely forgotten since 1967 - which is a bit of a shame. Edward G. Robinson is a retired professor 'Anders" who assembles a rather disparate gang in order to execute the most fantastic of heists, from a seemingly impregnable vault, that will leave them the proud owners of $10m in diamonds. His meticulous, almost "League of Gentlemen" (1960) , planning accounts for every detailed aspect of the security around these jewels, and the execution of this part of the plot is (safe) cracking. As usual with most robbery stories, the plot seems to peter out after the criminal denouement, and sadly the ending is just a little to predictable. Good efforts from Klaus Kinski, Robert Hoffman and Janet Leigh as the duplicitous "Mary Ann" - alongside some really innovative use of some shaving foam - keep it enjoyably paced, and quite a bit better than average. The score is quite annoying, and the dialogue could do with just a shade of tightening up, but it's a good looking enjoyable escapade that I rather enjoyed.
Mar 6, 2024
Thematic Analysis
Grand Slam represents a fascinating example of Crime cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Giuliano Montaldo 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 1967, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Grand Slam took approximately 21 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 121 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 144 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1967, when this film was released:
- Social and cultural revolution was transforming Western societies.
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Grand Slam shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Flickering Lights, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Grand Slam subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Hoodwinked! and Mojave Diamonds explore similar territory, Grand Slam stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: September 28, 1967
- Runtime: 2h 1m
Where to Watch
