(1976)
2
Mark Deming
There's something faintly ridiculous about Con La Rabbia Agli Occhi, a crime thriller from Antonio Margheriti (aka Anthony M. Dawson) that appeared in the United States as Death Rage. From the opening assassination in the midst of a rock concert (a killing that doesn't serve much purpose in the plot) and the cluttered narrative to Yul Brynner's over-the-top performance as a killer for hire, the movie isn't afraid to play broad, and as a consequence it frequently feels more silly than suspenseful. But Margheriti has the good sense to keep the story moving forward at all times no matter what, and for all its faults it's an entertaining bit of European crime fare. Brynner seems to be playing to the upper balcony here, but he also gives the movie enough juice to carry it over some rough spots, and even though he's saddled with some silly plot contrivances (most notably a psychosomatic ailment involving his vision -- the Italian title translates as Anger In His Eyes), he plays this stuff as if he truly believes it, which is no small accomplishment. Barbara Bouchet isn't nearly as good as Brynner's unlikely love interest, but she's pretty and charming, and Massimo Raniei is fun in a thankless role as a weasely petty crook whose loyalties are divided between Brynner and the police (represented by Martin Balsam, solid in a role that not much a challenge to his talents). Death Rage is fast, flashy and just crazy enough that its excesses are entertaining; if you have a taste for eccentric crime flicks, this ought to be up your alley.
cast-crew for Death Rage on AllMovie
Death Rage (1976)
