Requiescant is a 1967 movie directed by Carlo Lizzani.
Requiescant tells the story of a preacher’s adopted son who attempts to save his sister from a corrupt group of ex-Confederates. Lou Castel stars in the title role and while his Colombian roots don’t exactly match his Mexican character, he exhibits a quiet intensity. Mark Damon’s George Bellow Ferguson steals the show. His aristocratic Confederate character is both genteel and vicious – but also reveals a simmering attraction to Carlo Palmucci’s Dean Light. It’s an intriguing performance – especially cast against Castel’s Bible-toting sharpshooter.
THE BEST – Overhead Shots
There’s nothing extraordinary about Lizzani’s direction – in most respects, Requiescant is a straightforward Euro-Western. However, during the movie’s climatic final scenes, Lizzani lifts his camera high above to show the wreckage of a saloon battle. It’s a simple and cheap technique, but extraordinarily effective.
THE WORST – Navajo Joe Levels of Casting
Castel is an interesting and occasionally dynamic actor but it’s hard to overlook his complexion – especially when cast against the Mexican peasants he represents. This contrast is even more striking when you remember Castel’s role in A Bullet for the General.
FOX FORCE FIVE RATING – 3.75/5
You have to suspend reality for much of the movie, but Requiescant is a solid Euro-Western that features some unique touches. It’s definitely worth a watch.
