William Lusting
Vigilante

The year was 1983 when, in the wake of various films centered on the theme of "Private Justice," this film entered theaters, born from the hands of a director coming from the world of "porn," William Lusting, who had already gained a certain notoriety (not financial) thanks to a precious passage in horror cinema. His is, in fact, the masterpiece "Maniac."

You're probably thinking: "Is there really a need to talk about another vigilante movie?"

Well, yes, because "Vigilante" is much more.

The plot, as with all films of the genre, certainly does not stand out for originality: a decent man, Eddie Marino - played by Robert Foster (Oscar for Best Supporting Actor in Tarantino's Jackie Brown) - with a strong sense of justice and respect for authority, sees his family succumb under the blows of a punk gang, disrespectful towards the human race. The wife is raped and the son - in a memorable sequence, where what is deliberately not shown, rips your guts - is shot to death!

There will be a trial, but corrupt justice will save the gang leader while locking up Eddie himself, who, reacting with harsh words to the judge's verdict, must spend some time in prison. Here a memorable Woody Strode (who plays Rake in the film) introduces him to the use of force for defense. A lesson that our Eddie will learn all too well: once out of prison, he will enlist in a group of Vigilantes (former cops tired of enduring and supporting a system where the more corrupt you are, the more protected you are). The dance of ruthless revenge will begin, where no one will be spared.

The thing that makes this film, erroneously considered a b-movie, special is the representative style that distinguishes it. It lacks that veneer of coverage that other films of the genre, despite being violent, possess.

Let's be clear: "Death Wish" is a great film. Vigilante is real.

The characters, even if sometimes they might seem caricatural, are actually simply real. Watching the film without prejudice, viewing it multiple times, it almost feels like being there with them. The blows really hurt.

One of the most successful scenes is definitely the pursuit of a thug by the Vigilantes, on the rooftops of tall buildings, with an ending you will not easily forget.

The lack of frills and the representation of suggested violence make this film a true cult.

The wonderful soundtrack contrasts with the numerous well-shot action scenes, and Fred Williamson's splendid portrayal as the leader of the Vigilantes undoubtedly constitutes the film's added value.

The end of the story will be as rapid as it is painful.

The film, often due to its bluntness, has been considered morally incorrect... but in reality, in its 90 minutes, you can find only a small cinematic gem that should not and must not be forgotten.

I recommend the BlueUnderground DVD version (region 0 audio also in Italian).

Enjoy the film