The Executor (1981)

The Executor Poster
Original Title: 執法者

Chow Yun-Fat and Danny Lee star in this police action film. Two cops are trying to capture a triad boss, but are interrupted by hitman played by Chow Yun-Fat. This is one of those unique combination Hong Kong movies with action, comedy, and violence.

Movie Introduction
"The Executor" is a historic drama film launched in 1981, directed by Dino Risi and starred Vittorio Gassman and Alberto Sordi. The plot revolves around the main character's experience as an unwilling accomplice in World War II and the psychological and ethical difficulties he deals with.

Plot
The film takes audiences back to the era of World War II, with the narrative centred on the character of Corrado Spada (Vittorio Gassman). Corrado is presented as an upright and honorable attorney who is swept into the mayhem of the war. He is captured up in a unideal circumstance when he is provided the job of being the executor of the will of an estranged buddy, Simone. Simone passes away under strange situations and leaves in his will many undesirable tasks for Corrado including the difficult task of delivering precious stones to a specific group of individuals.

Main Characters and Performances
Vittorio Gassman provides an exceptional performance as Corrado Spada, showcasing both emotional depth and ethical intricacy. Through his character, we witness the battle of a man stuck in the throes of the war, grappling to hold onto his ethical values. Alberto Sordi, as Simone's old attorney, also impresses with his immaculate comic timing and meaningful display of varied feelings.

Themes and Messages
"The Executor" tackles various themes, such as morality, friendship, and the styles of war. War exists as a force that can draw out either the best or worst in people. Also, friendship is checked out as an intricate surface that becomes significantly hard to browse in times of crisis. With Corrado's battle to fulfil the tasks in Simone's will while preserving his ethical stance, the film represents the message that ethical worths frequently stand evaluated during trying times.

Style and Direction
Director Dino Risi handles to weave together a story with both heartfelt and gut-wrenching minutes, encapsulating the solidity and the absurdity of war. Risi uses a nonlinear narrative style, which keeps the movie interesting and includes an aspect of thriller. The audiences are continued the edge of their seat as the mystery of Simone's death and the tasks bestowed to Corrado unfolds.

Cinematic Techniques
The film is noted for its climatic cinematography which visually mirrors the subtleties of the period and the turbulence dealt with by its characters. Risi utilizes shadow and light, comprehensive close-ups, and long-shots to catch the emotional strength of scenes.

Effect and Reception
While "The Executor" may not have actually been among the extensively acknowledged films of the time, it did garner an excellent reaction from the audience for its psychological depth, strong efficiencies, and an intriguing plot. Especially noteworthy was the remarkable performing of Vittorio Gassman and his portrayal of the moral quandary faced by his character. The film stays a historical drama substantial for its raw representation of the World War II era.

Top Cast

  • Chow Yun-fat (small)
    Chow Yun-fat
    Ng Tao
  • Danny Lee Sau-Yin (small)
    Danny Lee Sau-Yin
    Pang
  • Ng Man-tat (small)
    Ng Man-tat
    Mak Kay
  • Paul Chun (small)
    Paul Chun
    D.D.I policeman
  • Deanie Ip (small)
    Deanie Ip
    Mak Kay's wife
  • Lily Li (small)
    Lily Li
    Pang's wife
  • Kwan Hoi-San (small)
    Kwan Hoi-San
    Uncle Suk
  • Wang Chung (small)
    Wang Chung
    Chung