Today We Kill, Tomorrow We Die!

Today We Kill, Tomorrow We Die!, also known overseas as Oggi a me... domani a te!, is a thrilling 1968 Spaghetti Western directed by Tonino Cervi. The film stars Brett Halsey, Bud Spencer, and Wayde Preston.

Set in the raw, unforgiving landscape of the American Southwest during the lawless days of the late 1800s, Today We Kill, Tomorrow We Die! takes audiences on a turbulent journey of revenge, rich with actions, twist and turns. Brett Halsey stars as Bill Kiowa, a man wrongfully incarcerated, filled with an insatiable zeal for vengeance against the man responsible for his predicament.

Bill Kiowa is no ordinary man. His past is cloaked in darkness and revenge, the reason for his passionate quest of vengeance. He spent five grueling years in a Yuma prison, wrongfully accused of a crime he did not commit. Nonetheless, those five years became a vital turning point in his life, outlining his sole purpose once free: a relentless pursuit of the man who had framed him.

The elusive individual he seeks is none other than the ruthless outlaw, El Fego (Tatsuya Nakadai). El Fego is a charismatic bandit known for leaving a trail of devastation wherever he goes. As the mastermind behind Kiowa's wrong accusation and imprisonment, El Fego is no stranger to causing ruin. His cruel nature is only superseded by his cunning abilities as an outlaw, making him almost untouchable.

On his release, Kiowa wastes no time and quickly assembles a group of four gun-slinging outlaws, each with their own unique capabilities. Notably, among them is Bud Spencer, who plays one of Kiowa's recruited gunslingers. His significant role and commanding on-screen presence are pivotal to the dynamic of this rough-and-ready crew.

The plot takes an interesting turn when Kiowa and his men, bound by a shared enemy, operate under a pact sealed with a single dictum—“Today we kill, tomorrow we die.” Their lives are fueled by this ethos, leading the narrative down a path dripping with suspense and anticipation.

Unlike other westerns of its time, Today We Kill, Tomorrow We Die! beautifully molds character-driven narrative with action. Each character has been telegraphed meticulously. The screenwriters, Dario Argento and Tonino Cervi, make a deliberate effort to develop character arcs, unveiling each character’s unique traits, contributing to the powerful momentum of this gritty revenge tale.

The direction from Cervi is remarkable, offering viewers a gritty, raw, and realistic depiction of the Wild West. His attention to detail, from landscapes to character mannerisms, brings a distinct sense of authenticity to the film. Simultaneously, the savage desert setting and the uncompromising action scenes combine to make the movie an enthralling visual treat.

Performance-wise, the movie boasts exceptional performances from the cast, especially Brett Halsey and Bud Spencer. Halsey leaves an indelible mark in viewers' hearts as Bill Kiowa, his portrayal of the wronged, revenge-seeking man is both compelling and engaging. On the other hand, Bud Spencer's ability to bring intensity and charm into his character uniquely adds layers to his performance.

Not to forget, Armando Trovajoli’s musical score is a significant contribution to the film’s overall appeal. His compositions evoke the perfect array of emotions, be it during high-tension face-offs or at more poignant moments, resulting in a captivating auditory experience that complements the spectacular visuals.

Despite the high-tempo action and thrill sequences, the movie does not miss out on philosophical undertones. It explores deep themes, such as justice, vengeance versus forgiveness, and the human struggle for survival against adversity. These thoughtful introspections allow audiences to engage with the characters and plot at a more nuanced level.

All in all, Today We Kill, Tomorrow We Die! is a gem amidst the pantheon of Spaghetti Westerns. Intense, dramatically engaging, and aesthetically impressive, it is must-watch cinema for fans of the genre and beyond. Its riveting storyline, unforgettable characters, incredible performances, and stunning cinematography all masterfully come together to create a cinematic experience that leaves its viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end.