All fans of uninspired and pretentious nowadays heist movies, like "Now you see me" or "Ocean's Eight", should also have the decency to seek out the older classics of the genre, because they are a dozen times more inventive, original and exhilarating. Yes, I do realize this statement makes me sound like an old and nagging sourpuss. Anyways, I'm referring to classics like "Charley Varrick" or the original "The Italian Job" (1968), but even more to the flamboyant Euro-Exploitation efforts, like "Kriminal", "Danger: Diabolik" or "Grand Slam". This downright awesome, near-perfect thriller owes a lot to the French landmark "Rififi", but stands on itself as one of the coolest crime-capers ever made!
The great Edward G. Robinson, film-noir legend of the 30s and 40s, stars as a recently retired schoolteacher who worked in Rio de Janeiro his entire career. For more than 30 years, he stared at a diamond company across the street, and had the time to meticulously plan the most daring heist of the century. He needs to recruit specialists in particular areas, however, and ask the help of his old pal Mark Milford (Adolfo Celi) who has the - hand down - most genius database of criminals, arranged by there area of expertise! Four men, including the almighty Klaus Kinski, are hired to pull off the heist, but many complications arise, like a difficult-to-seduce secretary who holds the office keys, a brand new & hi-tech alarm system, carnival parades in the Rio city center and distrust among themselves.
"Grand Slam" probably borrowed several ideas and crucial key-elements from other titles; - Italian films usually do that. But I also know for a fact that even more films, like "Entrapment" or the "Ocean's 11" remake, took nifty little e elements from this gem. The preparation for the heist is absorbing and intelligent, whereas the actual heist is nail-bitingly tense. The four master-criminals are amazing! It's too bad you know from beforehand this type of film never ends well for them, because you honestly will root for them. The ultimate twist is a bit tacky, admittedly, but back then movies just had to end with a harsh "crime doesn't pay" message. Final word of praise goes out for the fantastic soundtrack, courtesy of - who else - Ennio Morricone. Great music, for a great film!
