Long Days of Hate

Long Days of Hate from 1968 is an enthralling blend of the Western and Spaghetti Western genres, directed by the capable hands of Gianfranco Baldanello. The movie stars the American actor Guy Madison, fondly remembered for his portrayal as Wild Bill Hickok in the 1950s television series. Starring alongside Madison is the French actress Lucienne Bridou, known for her work in European cinema during the 1960s and the versatile Italian actor, Rik Battaglia, best known for his numerous appearances in peplum, Eurospy and Spaghetti Western movies.

In Long Days of Hate, we witness the Italian Spaghetti Western universe where storytelling merges with poetic violence, creating an unforgettable cinematic experience for the audience. Guy Madison plays Austin, a former rancher struggling to maintain his integrity amid the brutalities of the Wild West. He bears the weight of his past and the complicated responsibilities of the present, embodying the tormented hero often found in Spaghetti Westerns.

The story starts with a powerful scene - a group of bandits, led by Rik Battaglia’s character, Pedro Ortiz, ruthlessly attack a stagecoach, setting the tone for the gritty escapades that follow. Pedro is a figure who thrives in chaos and fear, his character ironically imbuing a stark sense of reality into this stylized universe. The way Battaglia wears the role with a chillingly cruel demeanor often puts at stake more than just money or life, instilling a dread that transcends physicality - a dread for one's soul.

Meanwhile, Lucienne Bridou’s character Fidelia, a widow with a ranch, carries her complexity with an understated elegance. Despite the harsh realities of her surroundings, Fidelia faces adversaries with courage, caught in between the pursuit of justice and survival.

The plot revolves around a heart-wrenching tale of revenge, enhanced by high-tension onstage dynamics, meticulously staged gunfights, and hard-boiled dialogues, which are the trademark elements of the Spaghetti Western genre. The intriguing contrast between the desolate landscapes and the violent interaction of its characters further adds an element of existential dread to the narrative. This film excels at maintaining a steady pace while keeping its audience on the edge of their seats, as they navigate through the twists and turns of the storyline.

Director Gianfranco Baldanello employs tight and expressive framings to visualize each scene effectively, while the tale unwinds in sparse yet profoundly evocative dialogues. Madison, Bridou, and Battaglia, all efficiently put forth their characters, effortlessly stepping into the enormous and often unforgiving boots of Western archetypes. Madison, with his hardened demeanor and piercing gaze, displays both the brute force and subtle nuances that Austin demands.

Bridou brings an exceptional performance, serving as both an emotional anchor and a realistic portrayal of a strong female lead in an adverse world. Simultaneously, Battaglia paints a terrifying villain whose mere presence instigates unease and danger, building momentum for the impending storm.

Additionally, the movie boasts of a compelling musical score, fundamental to most Spaghetti Westerns. Composer Felice Di Stefano's brooding music adds layers of atmosphere to the mise-en-scène, often acting as an invisible character, weaving the narrative forward.

The cinematography in Long Days of Hate is hard to ignore. Various panoramic shots of the desolate yet awe-inspiring landscapes of Almería, Spain (where the film was shot), add a layer of visual poetry to the gritty narrative, beautifully contrasting the viciousness of the characters against the indifferent vastness of the frontier.

Overall, Long Days of Hate showcases a combustible mix of layered characters, dramatic tension, and atmospheric storytelling, making it an enjoyable watch for the enthusiasts of the Spaghetti Western genre. The film stands out because of its formidable storytelling techniques, the powerful performances from its lead actors, and its ability to evoke a sense of anticipation in the face of imminent danger. Indeed, it is a respectful addition to the Spaghetti Western canon that thrives on ambiance and character development, while wholeheartedly embracing the raw and ruthless essence of the Wild West.