Unveiling a Hidden Heist Film Gem from 1967
In 1967, Italian director Giuliano Montaldo brought together an international cast for an ambitious heist film co-production between Italy, Spain, and West Germany. Coming off his success with The Reckless, which was nominated for the Golden Bear prize at the Berlin International Film Festival, Montaldo secured Edward G. Robinson and Janet Leigh as two of his leads. With legendary composer Ennio Morricone providing the score, the production aimed to create a sophisticated entry in the burgeoning heist film genre. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the Heist Films series with a conversation about Montaldo’s 1967 film Grand Slam.
Breaking Down This International Heist Caper
The film follows a meticulous plan to rob $10 million in diamonds during Rio’s Carnaval, orchestrated by Robinson’s retired professor character. We discuss how the film builds tension through its carefully assembled team of specialists and elaborate heist sequence. While the ending has divided audiences over the years, we explore how this twist-filled finale actually enhances the film’s themes about crime and betrayal.
Key Elements of the Grand Slam Heist
• The innovative card catalog system used to assemble the criminal team
• Klaus Kinski’s intense performance as the ex-military member of the crew
• Janet Leigh’s role and how her development may have been too much a giveaway, at least through modern eyes
• Ennio Morricone’s distinctive, Carnaval-influenced score
• The technical achievement of the vault robbery sequence
• The film’s use of international locations, including some clever substitutions (and some bad blue screen)
When Plans Come Together
Despite being somewhat forgotten today, Grand Slam delivers as both a meticulously crafted heist film and an engaging story with great characters. We both rate it highly, appreciating its technical prowess and storytelling even when some of the twists become predictable. The film deserves more recognition among classic heist films of the 1960s for its innovative approach and international flair. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
Film Sundries
- Watch this on Apple, Amazon, or find other places at JustWatch
- Theatrical trailer
- Letterboxd
