Arguably one of the best from Italian genre master Sergio Sollima, Faccia a Facia (Face to Face) is a gang-busting western saga and a gripping parable of the rise of fascism. Upstanding history professor Brad Fletcher (Volonte) is forced into retirement by his poor health and moves west for a warmer climate. Almost as soon as he arrives, however, he is taken hostage by famed bandit Solomon Bennett (Milian) in an accidental confrontation, and by necessity is forced to take up wit his cohorts. But the learned man’s growing identification with the gang encourages him to stage a takeover from Bennett, and a new crueller system of leadership is put into place.
With grain and age aplenty, this film is showing its age. But despite its wear, the film looks good enough on DVD, with colours crisp enough to bring this genre classic to a new audience. Unfortunately, the original Italian audio is also suffering in old age, but a newly translated set of English subtitles will ensure things are easy to follow. It’s just a shame the cracking score from legendary Ennio Morricone is occasionally let down by the odd slip up in audio quality.
The film itself more than makes up for most of these shortcomings. A relatively simple tale of a switch in power is granted plenty of depth by Gian Maria Volonte and Tomas Milian, who, as Fletcher and Bennett offer up a sensational two hander throughout. Both men show plenty of shades of grey to their seemingly clear cut roles, and the eventual changeover will shock and entertain in equal measures.
It’s not hard to see why Face to Face is so fondly remembered. With all the hallmarks of a classic Western, including some memorable characters, sand whipped sets and an ear-popping soundtrack; this engaging adventure stands the test of time, even if this transfer doesn’t quite hit high notes.
Overall Verdict: It’s not the prettiest transfer, but Face to Face hits all the right notes where it counts. And you’ll be glad to know this solid film is backed up by a modest, but incredibly interesting, crop of extras.
Special Features:
Trailers
Interview with director Sergio Sollima
16 page booklet
Reviewer: David Steele