Films like Milano Calibro 9 are the reason I watch this sort of film. After trudging through so many disappointing Italian thrillers, it's always great when you find a diamond in the rough - and that's exactly what this well crafted little gem is. The film is a thriller bordering on the 'Polizia' style of films that would go on to become Italy's version of the Dirty Harry franchise, although the main plot focus here is on crime and the mafia. It has to be said the plot isn't overly deep - as the themes of stealing and treachery exist only to further the complex and twisted plot, but the film is great fun to watch and a success for that reason. The plot focuses on Ugo Piazza; a convict just out of prison. He soon meets up with his sexy girlfriend Nelly Bordon, and with the unpredictable and sadistic Rocco, who revels in committing acts of violence, and we later learn that £300,000 has gone missing, and the local crime syndicate believes that Ugo has it - as does the local police inspector, who has his own opinion about why Ugo went to jail in the first place.
The main reason why this film excels is thanks to the fantastic performances. Gastone Moschin leads the film with a performance that reminded me of something Ray Winstone would deliver. He provides a likable anti-hero, while Mario Adorf gets to enjoy himself with the meatiest role in the film. Barbara Bouchet co-stars and looks great, especially in her dancing scene in a bar. Bouchet is one of my absolute favourite Italian actresses, and I always enjoy seeing her in films - especially when they're up to the standard of this one. The film does somewhat adhere to the pitfall plaguing many Italian thrillers - that being that the story doesn't always make sense, but generally; the plot flows really well and the twists and turns ensure that it never gets boring. The climax of the film is excellent, and director Fernando Di Leo excellently pulls off the double twist at the end, which both resolves the story and provides neat entertainment. Overall, Milano Calibre 9 may not be the most well known cult Italian film - but it's one that shouldn't be missed by fans of this sort of stuff, and therefore comes highly recommended.
