Review of The Professionals (1966) by Mikey M — 13 Jul 2009
This fast paced and often violent Western follows four aging 'professionals' on perhaps one final errand (inspiration for the following Wild Bunch I feel sure). Marvelous understated performances by the big names and constructed seamlessly, it flashes by and leaves you chewing on the dust and heat of the mexican desert that dominates the visual.
Some nice writing too, as the characters bitch and moan throughout about their politics, memories and lost loves - Doesn't quite go as far as the homosexual undertones of The Wild Bunch's Dutch/Pike relationship, but Lancaster and Marvin do create a wonderful on-screen partnership, while Ryan, Strode, Palance and Cardinale all do their parts to fill out the colourful peripherals.
Most definitely worth a watch.
This review of The Professionals (1966) was written by Mikey M on 13 Jul 2009.
The Professionals has generally received positive reviews.
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