Kiss Kiss, Kill Kill

Kiss Kiss, Kill Kill, also known by its original Italian title "Kriminal," is a 1966 action-packed, stylishly crafted Italian crime film that marries elements of traditional detective narratives with the spectacle of popular European spy films of the 60s. Grandiose in its storytelling and extravagant in style, the movie, directed by Umberto Lenzi, navigates the thrilling world of adrenaline-fueled heists, deadly intrigue, and bold escapades.

Following in the footsteps of iconic anti-hero crime stories, this film centers around the enigmatic lead character, Kriminal, a master thief played exquisitely by Tony Kendall. A man of many faces, Kriminal is suave, cunning, and death-defyingly brave, with an almost supernatural ability to elude the authorities and escape seemingly impossible situations.

On the other hand, we have Brad Harris in an equally riveting performance as Inspector Milton, the dogged detective tirelessly on the trail of Kriminal. He’s the white knight of law enforcement, fuelled by straightforward justice, in a thrilling war of wits with his masked adversary. The ensuing cat-and-mouse game between the pair forms the backbone of the plot, constructing an alluring dance where one—a detective driven by justice—relentlessly pursues the other—a criminal mastermind.

The female lead, played by the enchanting Maria Perschy, further enriches the narrative with a dash of mystery and allure. Her role, although secondary, is pivotal in the plot, meandering between the love interest, victim, and accomplice in this intricate crime caper. Never a mere damsel in distress, her character shows marked tenacity, making for a trio of strong central performances.

The other supporting characters, each with their enigmatic roles, add to the mysterious ambiance of the story. Ranging from corrupt officials to rival gangs, each character introduces their unique flavor to the narrative. The distinct mesh of different personalities and motives leads to a complex, engaging plot proliferated with unexpected turns and high-stakes encounters.

Set against the backdrop of several major European cities, the grandeur of the locations fashion an atmospheric, glamorous setting that elevates the film to a quasi travelogue adventure crime tale. The locations, from the bustling streets of London to the sun-soaked landscapes of Spain—all captured in wonderfully composed frames—feed into the film's overall aura of extravagance and slick sophistication.

As characteristic of many European crime capers from the same period, Kiss Kiss, Kill Kill delivers its narrative with tongue-in-cheek humor without bordering on parody. The antics of the flamboyant thief never overstep into the realm of slapstick, and the film retains a sober undertone throughout. This balance between its humor and action allows for an entertaining narrative which is thrilling and fun at the same time.

Even after more than five decades since its release, Kiss Kiss, Kill Kill stands as a testament to the artistic merit and larger-than-life storytelling approach of classic Italian cinema. These defining qualities are further enhanced in this film with a fitting background score, designed to match the high-energy heist scenarios and the tense pursuit between the characters. It significantly contributes to the film's suspense and drama.

However, it should be noted that Kiss Kiss, Kill Kill carries the unmistakable stamp of its era. Some of its character portrayals and themes may be construed as outdated when seen through modern lenses. Despite this, the film is a fine example of 1960s Italian cinema, embedded with all the charm and grandeur of its time.

Directed astutely by Umberto Lenzi, Kiss Kiss, Kill Kill is a richly woven visual tapestry of charismatic characters, electrifying encounters, and intriguing plot twists. The film is a high-octane ride from start to end, offering a cinematic experience that seamlessly fuses the elegance of a classic crime caper with the exciting unpredictability of a thriller. It's a heady cocktail of intrigue, sizzling action, and timeless charm that continues to resonate with fans of vintage European cinema.