Cast
View AllMike Connors
as Kelly
Dorothy Provine
as Susan Fleming
Raf Vallone
as Mr. Ardonian
Terry-Thomas
as Lord Aldric / James
Margaret Lee
as Grace
Nicoletta Machiavelli
as Sylvia
Beverly Adams
as Karin
Marilù Tolo
as Gioia
Seyna Seyn
as Wilma Soong
Oliver MacGreevy
as Ringo
Sandro Dori
as Omar
Jack Gwillim
as British ambassador
Andy Ho
as Ling
Hans Thorner
as Krüger
Crew
Director
- Dino Maiuri
- Henry Levin
Writer
- Jack Pulman
- Dino Maiuri
Producer
- Salvatore Argento
- Dino Maiuri
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Comedy film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Kiss the Girls and Make Them Die distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Dino Maiuri 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 1966, 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 Kiss the Girls and Make Them Die took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 106 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2023 individual shots.
- The costume department created over 468 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The musical score contains over 37 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1966, when this film was released:
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- Social and cultural revolution was transforming Western societies.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Kiss the Girls and Make Them Die shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Bitch Slap, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Kiss the Girls and Make Them Die subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Gold and John Storm II: The Last Spy explore similar territory, Kiss the Girls and Make Them Die 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: September 8, 1966
- Runtime: 1h 46m