Review: Contraband (1980)

Lucio Fulci, primarily known for his horror films, takes a detour into crime thriller territory with 'Contraband', a movie that showcases his flair for unflinching violence and gritty storytelling. Released in 1980, this film is a fascinating exploration of the underworld in Naples, Italy. While it might not be the Fulci film everyone immediately thinks of, it certainly holds its own with a unique blend of suspense and raw brutality that fans of Italian crime cinema will appreciate.

Plot Summary

Set against the bustling backdrop of Naples, 'Contraband' follows the life of Luca Di Angelo, a smuggler who finds himself entangled in a dangerous web of crime and deceit. Luca and his crew are involved in the lucrative but perilous trade of smuggling cigarettes. However, when a new player enters the game with intentions of expanding into drug trafficking, the stakes get considerably higher and more lethal. As violence escalates and alliances are tested, Luca must navigate this treacherous terrain to protect his family and his business. The plot is a thrilling ride through the gritty streets of Naples, maintaining a steady pace that keeps the viewer engaged without giving away too much too soon.

Performances

The cast of 'Contraband' delivers solid performances that contribute significantly to the film's gritty atmosphere. Fabio Testi, in the role of Luca Di Angelo, brings a brooding intensity to the character, perfectly capturing the essence of a man caught between his principles and survival. Testi's portrayal is both charismatic and believable, anchoring the film with a strong central performance.

Supporting Testi is Ivana Monti, who plays Luca's wife, Adele. Monti provides a strong emotional counterpoint to Testi's hardened exterior, adding depth to the personal stakes involved in Luca's dangerous world. The chemistry between Testi and Monti is palpable, adding a layer of authenticity to the narrative.

Other notable performances include Marcel Bozzuffi, playing the menacing antagonist with a chilling presence that adds tension to every scene he graces. The ensemble cast does an admirable job of bringing Fulci's gritty vision to life, each adding their own flair to this crime thriller.

Direction and Craft

Lucio Fulci's direction in 'Contraband' showcases his ability to craft tension and deliver shocking moments of violence, traits well-known to fans of his horror films. Here, Fulci applies his skills to the crime genre, creating an atmosphere that is both tense and engaging. The film's pacing is expertly handled, allowing the suspense to build without losing momentum.

The cinematography captures the lively yet perilous streets of Naples, enhancing the film's authentic feel. Fulci's use of practical effects, especially in the more violent scenes, remains impactful, characteristic of his style. The gritty realism of the film is reinforced by a suitably moody score, which complements the on-screen action without overpowering it.

In terms of production design, 'Contraband' excels in creating a believable underworld setting. The attention to detail in the depiction of the smuggling operations and the seedy locales adds to the film's immersive quality. It's clear that Fulci was committed to portraying a raw and unvarnished look at crime in Naples, which he accomplishes with aplomb.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors and fans of Lucio Fulci, 'Contraband' represents an essential piece of his filmography that showcases his versatility beyond horror. The movie offers a gritty look at crime and violence, a departure that still retains his signature style. The best format to own this film is undoubtedly the Blu-ray, which benefits from restored visuals and audio that do justice to the film's intense atmosphere. The Blu-ray edition also often includes some insightful extras, giving fans a deeper appreciation of Fulci's work.

While not as rare as some other Italian genre films, 'Contraband' remains an uncommon find, especially in pristine condition. Its appeal lies in its unique place within Fulci's body of work and its gritty take on the crime genre. For those who appreciate Italian films from the period or are Fulci completists, this is a worthy addition to any collection.

In conclusion, 'Contraband' is an intriguing entry in the crime thriller genre, bolstered by strong performances and Fulci's adept direction. It might not have the same notoriety as his horror classics, but it stands out as a strong exploration of crime and human desperation. Collectors will find it a fascinating piece that enriches the understanding of Fulci's diverse directorial range.