Release: 1966-12-22
Runtime: 2h 41m (161 minutes)
While the Civil War rages on between the Union and the Confederacy, three men – a quiet loner, a ruthless hitman, and a Mexican bandit – comb the American Southwest in search of a strongbox containing $200,000 in stolen gold.
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Genres: Western
Cast: Clint Eastwood, Eli Wallach, Lee Van Cleef, more
Clint Eastwood
as Blondie
Eli Wallach
as Tuco Ramirez
Lee Van Cleef
as Sentenza / Angel Eyes
Luigi Pistilli
as Father Pablo Ramirez
Rada Rassimov
as Maria
Antonio Palombi
as Old Sergeant (uncredited)
Silvana Bacci
as Mexican Woman with Blondie (uncredited)
Mario Brega
as Corporal Wallace
Chelo Alonso
as Stevens' Wife (uncredited)
Benito Stefanelli
as Member of Angel Eyes' Gang
Fortunato Arena
as 1st Sombrero Onlooker at Tuco's 1st Hanging (uncredited)
Al Mulock
as One-Armed Bounty Hunter
While the Civil War rages on between the Union and the Confederacy, three men – a quiet loner, a ruthless hitman, and a Mexican bandit – comb the American Southwest in search of a strongbox containing $200,000 in stolen gold.
For three men the Civil War wasn't hell. It was practice.
The Good, the Bad and the Ugly is a classic 1966 Italian western film directed by Sergio Leone. It features Clint Eastwood as "the Good," Lee Van Cleef as "the Bad," and Eli Wallach as "the Ugly." The film is part of the famous "Dollars Trilogy," which began with A Fistful of Dollars (1964) and was followed by For a Few Dollars More (1965).
The film explores the chaotic backdrop of the American Civil War, as three gunslingers race to locate a hidden stash of Confederate gold. With its gripping story, memorable characters, and stunning cinematography by Tonino Delli Colli, this film has become a defining entry in the western genre.
Produced by Alberto Grimaldi, the screenplay was co-written by Leone, Luciano Vincenzoni, and the writing team of Age & Scarpelli. The score, composed by Ennio Morricone, is iconic and greatly enhances the film's emotional impact.
Plot Summary: The story unfolds in 1862, during the tumult of the Civil War. The film begins with a scene where Tuco (Wallach) escapes from bounty hunters, only to later team up with Blondie (Eastwood), a bounty hunter who turns against him. They discover a dying soldier, Bill Carson, who reveals the location of buried gold, leading them to reluctantly join forces. Along the way, they confront Angel Eyes (Van Cleef), a ruthless mercenary who also seeks the treasure. Their quest to find the gold is fraught with betrayals, shootouts, and moments of tense camaraderie, culminating in a legendary Mexican standoff at Sad Hill Cemetery.
Character Highlights:
The film's unique style combines long shots with extreme close-ups, creating a visually engaging narrative that adds tension, especially during gunfights. Leone's use of music complements the action and enhances the emotional stakes, especially highlighted in the film's climactic scenes.
Critical Reception: Upon its release on 29 December 1967 in the United States, the film received mixed reviews, primarily due to its graphic violence and depiction of the western genre. However, over time, it has garnered acclaim and is currently regarded as one of the greatest films of all time. It made a significant cultural impact, influencing numerous filmmakers and inspiring countless artists across various genres.
In summary, The Good, the Bad and the Ugly remains a milestone in cinema history, captivating audiences with its blend of thrilling action, memorable characters, and a stunning score. Its legacy continues to resonate, making it a must-see for any film enthusiast.
