Tag: renato salvatori

Burn!

Burn! is a 1969 movie directed by Gillo Pontecorvo.

Burn! tells the story of Sir William Walker, a British mercenary who helps an Antilles island gain its independence – before returning years later to remove its leader from power. Marlon Brando gives a solid performance as Walker, who mentors Evaristo Marquez’s Jose – before later turning on him. Brando plays his character with a cynicism and wit – he’s essentially a puppeteer hired by forces greater than him. At times, Brando appears disinterested, however we see glimpses of the actor who would emerge in later legendary roles.

THE BEST – The Monologues

Brando’s most memorable moments come as he addresses the island’s governors and Jose, the rebel leader. In his aloof, aristocratic delivery, Brando compares slavery to marriage. He later warns Jose that revolts outlive their need. As their relationship worsens and Jose’s influence grows, Marquez’s character ponders his own fate: “Have I become so dangerous?”

THE WORST – President Sanchez’s Bronzer

Renato Salvatori’s Sanchez is installed as the provisional government’s leader – at least until he overestimates his power. It’s a role easily overshadowed by Brando and Marquez. However, the amount of fake tan applied to Salvatori is spectacular.

FOX FORCE FIVE RATING – 4/5

At times, Burn! appears to be more message than movie. However, Pontecorvo delivers a daring and socially conscious story – using the intriguing Brando-Marquez match and a cast of hundreds to establish some gritty realism.

Z

Z is a 1969 movie directed by Costa-Gavras.

Z tells the story of a right-wing military government’s attempt to cover up the death of a left-wing activist. The truth slowly unravels during an investigation but also leads to dangerous consequences. Jean-Louis Trintignant plays Le juge d’instruction, who attempts to uncover the corruption. His performance is dynamic and efficient, yet the character is ultimately forced to realize the limits of his pursuit. Marcel Bozzuffi and Renato Salvatori are brilliant as Vago and Yago, the colorful henchmen hired to pull off the murder.

THE BEST – Trintignant’s Interrogations

The highlights of the movie involve Trintignant’s character getting closer to the truth. While the character appears as an efficient, devoted government employee, he craves the moments of verbal sparring that occur. Trintignant gives an extraordinary look when he catches Vago in a trap – one that leads to a significant break in the investigation.

THE WORST – The Epilogue

This isn’t a worst in terms of moviemaking, but rather a realization of how brutally oppressive bureaucratic government machines can act. Everyone on the side of justice in the case suffers, while those responsible for injustice are barely bothered. It’s certainly an indictment of corrupt systems – a reality unfortunate in 1969 and today.

FOX FORCE FIVE RATING – 4/5

Z can drag at times but it’s an important and brave movie – both in 1969 terms and today. The acting is sharp and there are some stylistic flashes that make the movie visually appealing. It’s definitely worth a watch.