Watch Eurocrime!

Eurocrime! is a documentary film that delves into the world of Italian crime cinema, also known as "Poliziotteschi." The film is directed by Mike Malloy and features interviews with some of the biggest names in the genre, including Franco Nero, John Saxon, and Henry Silva. The film takes the viewer on a journey through the rise and fall of the Poliziotteschi genre, which was popular in Italy during the 1960s and 1970s. Poliziotteschi films were known for their gritty, violent portrayal of crime and corruption, and were often influenced by American films such as Dirty Harry and The French Connection.

Through interviews with directors, actors, and critics, Eurocrime! explores the various themes and styles of Poliziotteschi cinema, as well as the social and political context in which these films were made. The film also features clips from some of the most iconic Poliziotteschi films, such as The Cynic, the Rat, and the Fist and Napoli Violenta.

One of the key themes of Eurocrime! is the question of whether Poliziotteschi films were simply fun, violent entertainment or whether they reflected a deeper social and political unrest in Italy during the time they were made. The filmmakers interview critics who argue that these films were a response to the growing sense of disillusionment and cynicism felt by many Italians during the 1970s, as well as the rise of organized crime and political corruption.

The film also explores the international appeal of Poliziotteschi cinema, particularly in the United States, where these films were often dubbed and distributed in grindhouse theaters. The filmmakers interview American critics and filmmakers who were influenced by the Poliziotteschi genre, including Quentin Tarantino.

Overall, Eurocrime! is a fascinating exploration of a genre that is often overlooked by mainstream film criticism. The film offers a compelling look into the world of Italian crime cinema, as well as the broader social and political issues that shaped it. With its impressive lineup of interviews and extensive use of film clips, Eurocrime! is a must-see for fans of Poliziotteschi cinema, as well as anyone interested in the history of Italian cinema.

Eurocrime! is a 2012 documentary with a runtime of 2 hours and 7 minutes.