Ben And Charlie

Ben And Charlie, also known as Amico, stammi lontano almeno un palmo in Italian, is an intriguing and entertaining Spaghetti Western film released in 1972. It stars the iconic actor Giuliano Gemma, also known by his pseudonym Montgomery Wood, and George Eastman, an actor recognizable for his roles in various Italian genre movies. Also starring in the film is Vittorio Congia, a well-known Italian actor and comedian. The film is directed by the talented Italian director, Michele Lupo.

In Ben And Charlie, Gemma and Eastman portray the title characters Benjamin "Ben" Bellew and Charlie Logan, respectively. These two characters are small-time crooks who eke out their existence by pulling off minor scams and hustles. Both Ben and Charlie are rough-around-the-edges, good-for-nothing swindlers who are seemingly inseparable despite their differences. Gemma’s Ben is a scruffy charmer with a fast draw, and Eastman’s Charlie is a tall, mustached scoundrel with a penchant for sophistication despite his crooked ways.

The plot commences when their paths cross with some bandits, leading to a sequence of events that requires the two heroes to test their cunning and sharpshooting skills. The cunning duo takes the viewer on a thrilling journey through the Wild West, filled with daring exploits, thrilling escapes, and gripping encounters.

Despite being rooted in the classic Spaghetti Western genre, Ben and Charlie distinguish itself by blending in elements of comedy into its plotline. Vittorio Congia's participation in the film adds an extra layer of humor and lightness to the film, giving the gritty Western a unique comedic edge. The alternation of tense moments interlaced with humor creates a peculiar yet enjoyable cinematic experience.

Additionally, the film also shines due to its remarkable cinematography that captures the essence of the wild west impeccably. From sweeping landscapes to detailed expressions, the film investingly takes you through the raw realities of rural life in the West. Moreover, the film is also remembered for the engaging pistol duels, horse chases, and bouts of fisticuffs that reflect the ruggedness of the characters and their milieu.

Michele Lupo, who had previously directed another notable Spaghetti Western titled 'Arizona Colt', demonstrates excellent control over the film's pacing and narrative, balancing dialogue-driven scenes with action-filled sequences. Several of Lupo's directorial trademarks, such as long tracking shots and extreme close-ups, add to the film's immersive visual experience.

Furthermore, the characters' charm is enhanced by the talented cast. Gemma’s rugged charm, combined with his intense acting prowess, brings the character of Ben to life convincingly. Eastman, on the other hand, superbly maintains the balance between the serious and comic tones of Charlie, making him an interesting character to watch. The duo's on-screen chemistry is also commendable, contributing significantly to the overall entertainment value of the film.

In terms of the film's soundtrack, it features the beautiful work of composer Gianni Ferrio, which adds a strong undercurrent of tension and excitement to the film. The harmonica theme tune, for instance, sets the tone for what is to come, and the music works harmoniously with the action sequences to keep the viewers riveted.

To summarize, Ben And Charlie is an engaging blend of comedy and hard-edged Spaghetti Western. Though some might classify it as a typical western flick, it profoundly differs due to its fusion of humor and grit. The performances by Giuliano Gemma and George Eastman create an unforgettable pair, and the superb direction of Michele Lupo ensures a well-paced and visually captivating film. The movie does not shy away from reality and successfully manages to entertain, narrate and shock the viewer, making it an exciting ride from start to finish. It's a must-watch for anyone who loves Westerns, comedy, and captivating character dynamics.