Mr. Ricco

The 1975 film Mr. Ricco is an intriguing blend of crime drama, mystery, and courtroom thriller, led by the charismatic and effortlessly cool Dean Martin. The film also stars Eugene Roche and Thalmus Rasulala in pivotal roles, toeing the line between the legal and the unlawful in the tumultuous milieu of 1970s San Francisco.

Dean Martin takes on the role of Joe Ricco, a shrewd, experienced, and high-powered criminal defense attorney, a marked deviation from his usual light-hearted roles, offering an unanticipated yet completely engrossing show of his acting prowess. He has achieved immense success throughout his career due to his sharp intellect, quick wit, and unabashed determination to expose the truth, even if it means crossing the line occasionally.

Just as Joe Ricco is considering retiring at the top of his game, he takes on one last murder case that proves to be his most challenging yet. Patterson, played by Thalmus Rasulala, is an African American militant, who has been wrongfully accused of a particularly egregious crime - the chaotic assassination of a famous white supremacist.

Throughout the trial, Ricco employs his acumen to lay bare the prejudices and unfair practices at the heart of the legal system. Meanwhile, Eugene Roche's Detective George Cronyn conducts a relentless investigation that reveals more complexity than initially estimated. It's an intriguing feud where Ricco defends his client while Cronyn persists with his relentless pursuit of justice—sometimes at odds but equally resolute in their belief in their missions.

As the tension escalates, we witness Ricco not only battling against the courtroom chaos but also navigating the dusty roads of San Francisco in a series of car chases and close encounters—he's not just defending his controversial clients, but also his life.

Moreover, the film is not without its share of unexpected humor, with Ricco's acerbic wit and one-liners often providing a relief amidst the escalating tension. With this blend of high-stakes drama and levity, the film establishes an unusual, balanced tone that makes it an absorbing watch.

Directed by Paul Bogart, Mr. Ricco is a film that capitalizes on the socio-political complexities of its time, while retaining crucial elements of a classic whodunit. The use of the 1970s as a backdrop offers the movie a vintage charm, with the nostalgic portrayal of old San Francisco and its bohemian culture acting as an organic part of the narrative.

The film retains many elements of what makes Dean Martin a household name—his charisma and confidence—and pairs it with the subtle, yet effective performances by Eugene Roche and Thalmus Rasulala. They inhabit their characters, showcasing excellent performances that allow audiences to engage with the narrative on a deeper level.

Mr. Ricco is an emblem of its era, reflecting the evolving racial landscape and legal intricacies of the 1970s. Yet, it is not overtly preachy—instead, it weaves these themes seamlessly into its broader narrative structure, providing a thought-provoking social commentary that remains relevant even today.

The cinematography captures the essence of the 70s with its attention to detail—from Ricco's vintage Ferrari to the period-accurate costume design, further enhancing the authenticity of the narrative. Similarly, the choice of music in the film creates an immersive and thrilling experience, matching the ebbs and flows of the story perfectly.

Overall, Mr. Ricco is more than just a crime drama. It's a nuanced exploration of principles and prejudices, anchored by an impressive Dean Martin performance, compelling mystery, and the compelling dynamics between the lead characters. Lightened with doses of humor, powered by action sequences, and unexpectedly touching on important social themes, it is a film filled with surprises and not one to miss for fans of vintage cinema.