This rediscovered classic, written and directed by Jules Dassin (“Night and the City,” “Rififi,” “Topkapi”), was originally released in the U.S. in 1960. It boasts a compelling ensemble cast, including Gina Lollobrigida, Marcello Mastroianni, Yves Montand, Melina Mercouri and Pierre Brasseur. I find it hard to believe I’ve never seen this before. It’s rarely listed among Dassin’s must-sees, and I suspect it’s been out of cirulcation for a while. The trailer quality looks reasonably good, so with any luck a restored print will be available. Currently, the film is scheduled for limited release during the summer. A wider release might follow, or perhaps it will go quickly to DVD instead.
From the Press Kit:
THE LAW (previously released in the US as Where the Hot Wind Blows) stars Gina Lollobrigida, Marcello Mastroianni, Yves Montand, Melina Mercouri, and Pierre Brasseur. Lollobrigida plays Marietta, the gorgeous housekeeper to Don Cesare (Brasseur), the patriarch of a small Mediterranean coastal town. Lusted after by many men, including Francesco (Montand), the son of a local crime boss, Marietta has her own desires, consisting of the poor Enrico (Mastroianni). Determined to secure the dowry that will enable her to marry Enrico, Marietta connives the men of the town by turning the tables on them using their own vicious drinking game which they call “The Law.” Haden Guest, Director of the Harvard Film Archive called the film “a totally underrated and underappreciated gem.”
– Oscilloscope Laboratories
