The Boss

Up until the 1970s, Italian cinema was certified for its mastery of the Spaghetti Western genre. However, the genre that overtook the popularity of the Western one was the poliziotteschi, the Italian style of gritty crime and police films. "The Boss", directed by the prestigious Italian filmmaker, Fernando Di Leo, is a potent example.

"The Boss" viewed by many as an iconic piece of work, was released in 1973 starring an ensemble cast- Henry Silva, Richard Conte, Gianni Garko, and Antonia Santilli. This film marked the finale of Fernando Di Leo's Milieu Trilogy and enhanced his standing as a maestro of Italian crime cinema.

Arguably one of Di Leo's finest works, "The Boss" tells a gripping story revolving around the brutal, merciless dynamics of mob warfare in the crime-ridden city of Palermo, Sicily. The film dives deep into the underbelly of the Italian Mafia, showcasing its devious workings, brutal power struggles, treachery, and violent shootouts.

In the movie, Henry Silva delivers a compelling performance as Nick Lanzetta, a dedicated and relentless hitman for Don Corrasco played by Richard Conte. Conte portrays a prodigious character of an ageing boss, battling for order and power within his criminal empire tactfully.

After a rival gang led by Don Angelo, aiming to seize control of Palermo’s criminal activities, murders Don Corrasco's most trusted men, Lanzetta is tasked with retaliation. The tension escalates as Lanzetta maneuvers through dangerous situations, ruthlessly crushing whoever stands in his path, firmly establishing the spectacle of a personal vendetta within the larger-scale territorial mafia war.

Gianni Garko plays Commissioner Torri, symbolizing the law and order side of the story. Despite his efforts to control the chaos erupting in the streets, he faces an uphill battle, with the mob's power seeming insurmountable. Garko's exemplary character indicates the deep-rooted corruption within the system, portraying the dilemma between duty and survival.

Antonia Santilli as Rina, the boss's beautiful, enchanting daughter, adds an element of sensuality to the movie, further complicating the intricate web of relationships. Her role involves controversial encounters, highlighting the manipulation and deceitful tactics employed in the organized crime world.

"The Boss" is noticeably more violent and desolate than its predecessors, with hard-hitting shootouts, cold-blooded assassinations, and a haunting climax. The cinematography is engaging, effectively capitalizing on the stark contrasts of grimy backstreets and splendid mansions to portray the dual lifestyle of the mafia. Silva's ruthless hitman takes center stage in most sequences, with his stone-cold expressions and minimal dialogues contributing to a chilling and memorable character. His contrastingly soft interactions with Rina add another layer of complexity to his personality, making him an intriguing protagonist.

Fernando Di Leo, with his ingenious take on characters and story, showcases a keen understanding of the Italian crime scene. The film's success can be attributed to his vision and execution, which brings forth the harsh realities of the mafia world. His narration style effortlessly switches between intimidation and sympathy, weaving an intricate tale of power, ambition, and survival.

"The Boss" is more than just a mob film with action sequences and charismatic anti-heroes. It's a comprehensive examination of the mechanics of a crime dynasty, the loyalty and betrayal among its members, and the profound impact it has on the society that sustains it.

With an absorbing storyline, Burton's character-driven direction, Di Leo's bold and impactful vision, and impressive performances by the actors, "The Boss" stands out in the realm of crime genre films and captivates the audience from start to finish.