It’s time for another Retro Review and this time Mark and I took a first look at the iconic British classic, The Italian Job.

Director: Peter Collinson

Starring: Michael Caine, Noel Coward, Benny Hill, Raf Vallone

Charlie Croker (Michael Caine) has just been released from prison when a big heist job falls in his lap by way of an old friend, four million dollars worth of gold coming in to Italy from China. Using three Mini Coopers, a couple of Jaguars and a football fan bus, Charlie and his gang bring the city of Torino to a standstill in their bid to steal the gold and escape.

Going in, I knew the basic premise of the film a) because I have seen the 2003 remake and b) because all heist films are pretty much the same, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. However, what took me by surprise was how heavily the film lent on comedy. I was expecting an action packed thriller but what I got instead felt more like a comedic parody, the Austin Powers of heist movies so to speak.

Whether that was by intent or as a result of me watching it fifty years too late, I don’t know but I kinda enjoyed it all the same.

Noel Coward, as Charlie’s benefactor, was a little too pompous and on the nose for my liking and Benny Hill’s turn as the scientist Professor Peach was uncomfortable to watch. Michael Caine shone as his usual suave and sophisticated self and it is clear to see why this was the film that really set him on his way to stardom. Unfortunately though I found the rest of the cast to be rather unforgettable.

The most iconic part of The Italian Job is without a doubt the Mini Coopers, and thankfully they didn’t disappoint. The car chase sequences were enjoyable and well executed, made all the more enjoyable by a real ‘Cool Britannia’ soundtrack, and the hilarious ambiguous ending was a great way to finish off.

I’m happy to say that I’ve finally watched this classic, and whilst I did enjoy it overall, I doubt I’ll be watching it again any time soon.

Until next time… x

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