Charity and the Strange Smell of Money

Synopsis

Charity and the Strange Smell of Money (original title: Sentivano uno strano, eccitante, pericoloso puzzo di dollari) is a 1973 Italian crime drama featuring Robert Malcolm. The film weaves a story about greed, betrayal, and the darker side of the pursuit of wealth. Set against a gritty backdrop, the narrative explores complex characters entangled in schemes driven by the allure of money, highlighting moral ambiguities and human weaknesses. The film combines elements of suspense and drama, capturing a tense atmosphere reflective of 1970s European crime cinema. Its distinctive style and pacing provide a glimpse into the era’s cinematic approaches, particularly in Italian genre filmmaking.

Cast

• Robert Malcolm

  Butch 'Charity' Jenkins

• 

  Piero Vida

  Bronco Kid

• 

  Rosalba Neri

  Maria

• Luigi Meccia

• 

  Luigi Montini

  Al Costello

• 

  Salvatore Puntillo

  Ramirez

Reviews

Charity and the Strange Smell of Money has received mixed to negative critiques over the years. On IMDb, it holds a rating of 4.8/10, indicating generally unfavorable viewer responses. Critics have pointed out the film’s sluggish pacing and underdeveloped characters, which hamper engagement with the story. Some reviews appreciate the film’s attempt at building a gritty atmosphere and capturing the socio-economic tensions of its time, but these aspects are often overshadowed by a convoluted plot and uneven performances. For example, a review on Cinema Italian Style highlights the film’s stylistic choices but criticizes its lack of narrative clarity. Rotten Tomatoes does not have a rating for the movie, reflecting its relative obscurity and limited international recognition. However, enthusiasts of vintage Italian crime movies may find value in its atmospheric qualities and period-authentic elements, viewing it as a niche cult piece rather than mainstream success. Overall, the film is recommended mostly to fans of the genre and era, rather than to a general audience.