Friday 7 July 2023

Underworld, U.S.A (1961 Samuel Fuller & scr, prod)

Has that very punchy, violent style of opening (perhaps derived from Fuller's days as a journalist) we're becoming used to with Fuller in which a teenager witnesses his father's murder. Loved the way his turning hand becomes that of an adult safe cracker to jump us forward. It's a tale of revenge and of organised crime - shockingly (it's Fuller, don't forget) the crime barons are urging the targeting of 10-15 year olds for the 'joy powder'. Shot intensely quite close, edited for impact (Jerome Thoms), committed performances. 

Many memorable moments including killing of girl on bicycle, where he laughs at girl's proposal, dolls.

Cliff Roberston, Dolores Dorn, Beatrice Kay, Paul Dubov, Robert Emhardt (much on TV), Larry Gates (DA), Richard Rust (the killer), David Kent.

Superbly photographed by Hal Mohr (A Midsummer Night's Dream, Father of the Bride, The Wild One, Rancho Notorious, Destry Rides Again). Music Harry Sukman.





Peter Bogdanovich talks about Fuller's 'pugnacious authenticity', which I think is a good way of putting it.

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