The Italian Job (1969)

"Hang on lads - I've got a great idea...."

- The job: Steal 4 million dollars arriving in Italy from China and escape through a traffic jam. The man: Charlie Croker, just out of the joint and crazy enough to pull the heist off.

The Italian Job is the very definition of an entertaining film: fast cars, great style, fun humor, good tunes, likable characters, and a hot babe or two - you can't go wrong, one simply has fun watching this film! The film's script is solid with terrific excitement and very British comicality and the famous end car chase is one of the best ever put on screen.

Michael Caine could not be better in the film starring as thief team ringleader Charlie Croker, funny & strong when the film calls for it. Noel Coward does a good job as well, playing crime boss Mr. Bridger who not only runs his organization from prison but runs the prison - from prison. A bunch of other recognizable actors can be seen in the film as well: Benny Hill, Raf Vallone, Tony Beckley, Rossano Brazzi, and more - all doing good in their roles. Few films have assembled such a large group of affable criminals that The Italian Job has.

One might find that The Italian Job drags a little early on; but once it warms up, you'd better strap yourself in for a hilarious and exciting cinematic ride.

CBC Rating: 9/10