Italian Crime Films, 1968-1980, 2d ed.

After the decline of the Spaghetti Western, crime films were the most popular, profitable and controversial genre in 1970s Italy. The product of a country plagued with violence, political tensions and armed struggle, these films managed to capture and convey the widespread anxiety and anger in their tales of tough cops, ruthless criminals, and urban paranoia. Recent years have seen a renewed critical interest in the genre, thanks also to such illustrious fans as Quentin Tarantino, and the rise to cult status to the works of filmmakers such as Fernando Di Leo, Umberto Lenzi, and Enzo G. Castellari. This book includes all the crime films produced in Italy between 1968 and 1980, the period when the genre spawned and reached its peak. With over 230 entries, it's the most complete English language book on the subject. This second edition has been thoroughly revised by the author, with the addition of new entries and relevant information, plus a newly designed appendix on Eurocrime co-productions.