Of all the countries in Western Europe, it is perhaps Italy which has the worst reputation (whether deserved or not) for corruption, crime and bribery. Much of this can be attributed to the Sicilian Mafia, undoubtedly the most famous illegal organisation in modern history. Political and criminal subterfuge played a large role in Italian cinema of the 1960s and 1970s, particularly in Poliziotteschi films. Such as Silent Action.
Three senior military officials die in quick succession in what look like accidents. However, the subsequent death of a wealthy electrician leads to Inspector Solmi (Luc Merenda), Lieutenant Caprara (Michele Gammino) and Officer De Luca (Gianfranco Barra) being assigned to the case. Working alongside the district attorney (Mel Ferrer). After interviewing a former madam, Solmi begins to suspect that something far more pernicious is going on.
Silent Action is a sprawling crime drama which energetically dives down a conspiracy theory rabbit hole. The plot twists and turns at every juncture and director Sergio Martino ensures that the pace never lets up. Whilst it’s slightly confusing at time, it’s also often exhilarating. The highlight is one of the better car chases you’re likely to see on film. Silent Action is an action-packed mystery thriller which keeps you on your toes throughout.
Special features:
- 2K Restoration from the Original Camera Negative
- Original Italian Mono Audio with newly translated English subtitles
- Newly Remastered English Mono Audio
- Audio Commentary on Eurocrime fandom by Filmmaker Mike Malloy
- The Age of Lead: 1970s Italy
- Directing the Strategy: An interview with Director Sergio Martino
- Luc Unleashed: An interview with Actor Luc Merenda
- Sergio and I: An interview with Composer Luciano Michelini
- Archival interview with Luc Merenda
- Archival featurette: The Milian Connection
Limited Edition Contents (3,000 units)
- Collector’s Edition Slipcase
- Original Soundtrack CD
- Special Collector’s Booklet with new essays by Eugenio Ercolani and Francesco Massaccesi
Silent Action is released on Blu-ray by Fractured Visions on 12 April.
