The idea of the film sounds rather generic and not much different from other lower budget films of the genre. It also though sounded interesting, and was looking forward to seeing Richard Conte atypically cast, or at least at the time, and in a role that isn't support or co-lead. The biggest draw into seeing 'The Brothers Rico' was director Phil Karlson, have seen some of his films overtime and have been impressed (while not considering him a favourite). 'Gunman's Walk' and '99 River Street' being standouts.
1957's 'The Brothers Rico' is not in the same league as those two, nowhere near, but it is a most watchable film in its own way. It is not a great film by any stretch and another film of the films seen recently that is a case of a tale of two halves (one great, the other ehh). A lot of elements however are done very solidly in 'The Brothers Rico', with the interest points not disappointing, and the film generally is recommended, but not in a wildly enthusiastic way.
Am going to begin with the good things. Some of the photography is slick and suitably moody and while with nothing extraordinary Karlson amps up the tension quite well. The music doesn't distract and at least fits. The script has many moments where it is taut and thought-provoking.
Did think that the first half was great and very intriguing, with some nice suspense. It's well acted with Conte excelling against type, James Darren suitably gritty (despite his character's decision making being frustrating) and Kathryn Grant making the most of little. Did like the chemistry between Conte and Darren, despite them not being believable enough as brothers due to the age difference, instead it is more of a partners in crime sort of partnership.
However, 'The Brothers Rico' could have been better. The second half is less good, suffering from a serious lack of suspense, truly illogical and stupid decision making (especially Johnny's) and too many over convenient and less than plausible coincidences that are too relied upon.
Furthermore, the skimpy budget does show in some less than tight editing and cheap sets and rear projection. The female roles are very underwritten and come to think of it not particularly necessary. The ending felt rushed and doesn't make enough sense.
Overall, uneven but worth seeing. 6/10.
1957's 'The Brothers Rico' is not in the same league as those two, nowhere near, but it is a most watchable film in its own way. It is not a great film by any stretch and another film of the films seen recently that is a case of a tale of two halves (one great, the other ehh). A lot of elements however are done very solidly in 'The Brothers Rico', with the interest points not disappointing, and the film generally is recommended, but not in a wildly enthusiastic way.
Am going to begin with the good things. Some of the photography is slick and suitably moody and while with nothing extraordinary Karlson amps up the tension quite well. The music doesn't distract and at least fits. The script has many moments where it is taut and thought-provoking.
Did think that the first half was great and very intriguing, with some nice suspense. It's well acted with Conte excelling against type, James Darren suitably gritty (despite his character's decision making being frustrating) and Kathryn Grant making the most of little. Did like the chemistry between Conte and Darren, despite them not being believable enough as brothers due to the age difference, instead it is more of a partners in crime sort of partnership.
However, 'The Brothers Rico' could have been better. The second half is less good, suffering from a serious lack of suspense, truly illogical and stupid decision making (especially Johnny's) and too many over convenient and less than plausible coincidences that are too relied upon.
Furthermore, the skimpy budget does show in some less than tight editing and cheap sets and rear projection. The female roles are very underwritten and come to think of it not particularly necessary. The ending felt rushed and doesn't make enough sense.
Overall, uneven but worth seeing. 6/10.