The Biggest Bundle of Them All

Based in the vibrant era of the late 1960s, The Biggest Bundle of Them All is an engaging, humorous and lively caper film. Set against the gleaming European background, the film pairs American actor Robert Wagner and ageless beauty Raquel Welch in the lead roles, and utilises the charming Italian screen legend, Vittorio De Sica, as a crucial supporting character. Directed by Ken Annakin, the story of the film winds delightfully through a series of convoluted twists and turns that tease the fine line between crime and comedy.

The film unfolds with an ever-scheming, small-time hoodlum named Harry (Robert Wagner), who is always eager to make his mark in the criminal world. Harry’s faux pas in the criminal fraternity, paired with an insatiable desire to make money, leads him to the doors of a once wealthy, now-hard-on-luck Italian gangster Cesare Celli (Vittorio De Sica). What follows subsequently is a botched up robbery and the outrageous plan of kidnapping the former mafia boss himself. Adding to the plot’s complexity is the involvement of Harry’s wisecracking, fiercely independent girlfriend, Juliana (Raquel Welch), whose presence and participation give a much-needed emotional dimension to the crime comedy at hand.

Cesare Celli, the ageing mafia boss, on finding himself kidnapped by a low status group of criminals, isn’t terrified but rather amused, and decides to encraft a deal with these amateur thieves. This unlikely group is soon under the firm guidance of their hostage-turned-mentor. It’s this incredible turn of events that sets the stage for a tremendously audacious, planned heist that aims for an unprecedented $5 million worth of platinum.

The rest of the story unfolds with hysterically clumsy attempts by the ill-equipped gang as they plunge headfirst into plans for an elaborate heist. The narrative takes viewers from the picturesque Italian landscape to the bustling, sophisticated city of London. The plotline is superbly accented by a series of comical scenes, escalating tension, and an emotional rollercoaster that drives the characters to their very limits. From delicate negotiations and intense planning to unexpected alliances, The Biggest Bundle of Them All is a delightful ride brimming with tension, laughter, and unanticipated twists.

Robert Wagner as Harry Price delivers an incredible performance, running his criminal ineptness in tandem with his however-misguided ambitions. His suave persona, crisp dialogue delivery, and impeccable comic timing elevate many sequences and lend a certain charisma to his character, even at his dimmest moments.

Raquel Welch as Juliana stands out with her confident demeanor and natural wit. Her portrayal of a sultry, sassy female accomplice adds a refreshing mix of glamour and grit to the film. Her romance with Harry also infuses a touch of mush to this otherwise light-hearted crime comedy.

Vittorio De Sica, as Cesare Celli, the aging gangster, matches his co-stars with equal finesse. His unique metamorphosis from a victim to a mentor not only commends his acting prowess but also adds a fascinating complexity to the entire narrative.

Guest stars like Godfrey Cambridge and Davy Kaye provide brilliant comic relief, keeping the narrative lively and engaging.

Director Ken Annakin makes The Biggest Bundle of them All an extravagant crime caper comedy. Littered with endearing characters and comic misadventures, the film also explores themes of loyalty, love, and greed in a light-hearted, humorous way. Coupled with impressive cinematography capturing the essence of European landscapes, lively music from Riz Ortolani, and sharp, witty dialogues, the film is a bundle of laughs, anxiety, and unexpected surprises that keeps viewers glued to their seats.

In conclusion, The Biggest Bundle of Them All serves as a delightful treat for the fans of the caper genre. Its successful blend of comedy, crime, and a hint of romance, along with its star-studded cast, solid direction, and vivid backdrops, make it an entertaining watch. The film is a testament to the good old days of the genre when the lines between a criminal and a protagonist weren't so definite. It is a trip down memory lane, conjuring up the spirit of 60s cinema and beyond.