The Bloody Hands of the Law (1973)

The Bloody Hands of the Law Poster
Original Title: La mano spietata della legge

When a crime boss is murdered while in hospital, a young woman sees the killers, but her room mate convinces her not to tell the police, fearing the consequences. Unfortunately the murderers realize that they have been seen, and kill both women. Catching the killers proves difficult as anyone who knows anything dies in unexplained circumstances. It becomes evident that a large and powerful criminal organization is behind the murders, and that they have links within the police force. It is up to Lt. Carmine to see that justice prevails, using any means necessary.

Introduction
"The Bloody Hands of the Law" (originally titled "La Mano Spietata Della Legge") is a 1973 Italian criminal offense and action movie directed by Mario Gariazzo. The film stars Philippe Leroy, Silvia Monti, and Klaus Kinski, and it is set in Milan throughout the 1970s. The main plot revolves around an identified law enforcement officer, Commissioner Vanni, who intends to clean up the city by targeting prominent criminals and fixing high-profile cases. However, pushed away by his superiors and torn between his expert task and individual morality, Vanni has to challenge the difficulties presented by the ever-increasing web of criminal offense and corruption that surrounds him.

The Plot
The movie begins with a brutal murder when a relentless criminal called Valli (Kinsky) and his gang assassinate a whole household, including a little woman. Commissioner Vanni (Philippe Leroy), an unrelenting and incorruptible policeman, is employed to investigate the case. As he digs deeper into the examination, Vanni not just deals with resistance from the mobsters and corrupt political leaders but also discovers that their tentacles have actually infiltrated the higher echelons of the police itself.

Vanni's personal life is likewise badly impacted due to his immersion in the violent world of crime. His relationship with his wife (played by Silvia Monti) is strained as their loved ones become the targets of criminal hazards and associates compromise their stability. In spite of all odds, Vanni stays identified to lower Valli and his gang by any ways possible.

As the story progresses, it ends up being apparent that the genuine power behind Valli's gang is a mysterious and untouchable character simply described as "The President" (played by Eduardo Fajardo). The President uses his wealth, impact, and ruthless henchmen to manipulate the authorities, secure the gang, and ensure his criminal enterprises continue to grow. As Vanni gets closer to unmasking The President and taking down the criminal organization, the stakes are raised, and the violence escalates.

The Twist and Climax
Commissioner Vanni finally manages to locate Valli, who reveals The President's identity prior to he is eliminated by one of his own males. The shocking twist is that The President is none besides Vanni's exceptional, the Police Chief Quaglia, who has actually been dealing with the criminal underworld all along.

Vanni faces Quaglia in a climactic last face-off, which ends with the Police Chief's death. The Police Chief's demise also exposes the web of corruption within the upper ranks of the police force, leading to a huge stint of purging amongst senior officials. Vanni's ruthless efforts to reduce Valli, The President, and their criminal network ultimately serve as a catalyst in purging the police of corruption and restoring a semblance of justice in the crime-ridden city.

Styles
"The Bloody Hands of the Law" explores themes such as the ethical obscurity that often plagues law enforcement officers and the line between justice and vengeance. Director Mario Gariazzo deftly portrays the seedy, gritty milieu of the 1970s' Milan and the obstacles that policeman deal with when handling rampant corruption, arranged criminal activity, and ethical problems.

In addition, the film delves into the personal lives of the officers, concentrating on the extreme effects that their undeviating dedication to their work can have on their relationships. Furthermore, it showcases the power struggle in between the mob and police-- a fight where the lines between great and evil are frequently blurred.

Conclusion
"The Bloody Hands of the Law" is an action-packed criminal activity thriller that successfully captures the underbelly of crime-ridden Milan throughout the 1970s. With strong efficiencies by Philippe Leroy, Silvia Monti, and Klaus Kinski, the film uses an extreme and gritty representation of the battle versus corruption and the individual sacrifices made by those committed to supporting justice. Despite its age, "The Bloody Hands of the Law" remains a pertinent watch that showcases the difficulties of police in the face of insurmountable corruption and the pursuit of justice by any means needed.

Top Cast

  • Klaus Kinski (small)
    Klaus Kinski
    Vito Quattroni
  • Philippe Leroy (small)
    Philippe Leroy
    Commissario Gianni De Carmine
  • Silvia Monti (small)
    Silvia Monti
    Linda De Carmine
  • Sergio Fantoni (small)
    Sergio Fantoni
    Musante
  • Antonio Monselesan (small)
    Antonio Monselesan
    D'Amico
  • Fausto Tozzi (small)
    Fausto Tozzi
    Nicolò Patrovita
  • Pia Giancaro (small)
    Pia Giancaro
    Lilly Antonelli
  • Cyril Cusack (small)
    Cyril Cusack
    The Judge
  • Guido Alberti (small)
    Guido Alberti
    Prof. Palmieri
  • Lincoln Tate (small)
    Lincoln Tate
    Joe Gambino
  • Marino Masé (small)
    Marino Masé
    Giuseppe di Leo