Bootleggers

Synopsis

Bootleggers, originally titled "Cinque figli di cane," is a gritty 1969 Italian crime drama that delves into the violent and chaotic world of post-war Southern Italy. Directed by Duccio Tessari and starring George Eastman, the film follows the revenge-driven journey of five brothers seeking justice against a ruthless mafia clan responsible for the death of their father. Set against a backdrop of corruption and lawlessness, the brothers resort to bootlegging and crime to challenge the mafia's dominance. The narrative explores themes of family loyalty, vengeance, and the blurred lines between justice and retribution, painting a dark portrait of a society struggling to regain order through unconventional means.

Cast

• 

  George Eastman

  McGowan - L'Irlandese

• 

  Wayde Preston

  Grim Doel

• 

  Graziella Granata

  Leticia

• 

  Tano Cimarosa

  Mancho

• 

  Archie Savage

  Jeremias

• 

  José Suárez

  Engineer

Reviews

Bootleggers has garnered mixed reactions from both critics and audiences since its release. On IMDb, the film holds a modest rating of 5.2/10, reflecting a divide in viewers' opinions. Reviewers often praise the raw and gritty atmosphere Tessari creates, noting that the film's portrayal of the violent underworld and the fraternal bond among the protagonists offers a compelling narrative backdrop. Critics from AllMovie highlighted George Eastman's intense performance as a standout, enhancing the film's mood and tension. However, some reviewers have criticized Bootleggers for its uneven pacing and occasionally disjointed storytelling, which can detract from the overall experience. The film's production values and direction are noted as adequate but not exceptional, leading to a perception of Bootleggers as a solid yet unremarkable entry in the Italian crime genre. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film does not have an aggregated critic score, reflecting its cult and niche status rather than mainstream acclaim. Despite its flaws, Bootleggers remains appreciated by fans of spaghetti western and crime films for its authentic period detail and raw energy.