Half a century after its making of ‘Le clan des siciliens‘ (English title – ‘The Sicilian Clan’ – a 1969 production) remains in my opinion one of the best mob films ever made. Of course, the casting of Jean Gabin, Lino Ventura and Alain Delon, ensured instant success in France and remains the main attraction as long as the names of the three big stars of the French screen will not be completely forgotten. However, the film has many more reasons for satisfaction for viewers even seen today, being very well written and being filmed in an alert and interesting way. Even outdated elements of technology (phones, airports, cars) are reasons for nostalgia and reflection on changes in our pace and lifestyle. It is probably the best film by director Henri Verneuil, who proves to be a fine professional here.
Three years before Coppola‘s ‘The Godfather‘, Verneuil‘s film introduces us to the world of the Sicilian criminal families spread around the world, with their rules of honor and family traditions combined naturally with murders, burglaries and illicit trades. I’m ready to bet on a VIP invitation to a movie premiere that Marlon Brando saw Jean Gabin as the head of the Sicilian-Parisian clan before playing the role of Don Vito Corleone. Lino Ventura plays here the role of the police commissioner who is on the good side of the law, a role different from those in many of his previous films. Alain Delon is the intruder, a violent and unscrupulous gangster devoid of any trace of respect for the lives of others, except perhaps that of his sister. Family values seem to be the only positive aspects in this world of crime. All the characters are excellently conceived psychologically and impeccably interpreted.
Paris is always the ideal place to film a thriller and the film does not lack car chases and spectacular escapes, as well as one of the most original stories of jewelry robbery. Lovers of technological comparisons will have fun finding out or remembering some of the modernities of the time that are now museum pieces, but in retrospect it can be said that the lives of criminals and policemen were at least as interesting then as now. Cinematography and alert editing are highlighted by the music composed by Ennio Morricone. Even those who have not seen the film have certainly heard the tune of the main musical theme. ‘Le clan des siciliens‘ proves to be, half a century after its making, excellent entertainment. It’s probably also the perfect gangster movie.