Z (1969)

Based on the novel by Vassilis Vassilikos, which was in turn based on true events which took place in Greece in the sixties.

A politician is killed by members of a rightwing organization, by orders of the government. An incorruptible attorney general achieves the conviction of the guilty persons, but a military coup reverses the charges.

Second viewing. Quite ludicrous in style, with very corny soundtrack and repetition of shots (for instance, of a telephone ringing) in varying angles for enhancement of effect. Whenever the murdered politician's wife is in scene, sentimental melodrama takes over, even though it has little or no bearing on the plot. One of the assassins is depicted in his homosexual pursuits in a caricatural manner, at one point jumping for joy as in a slapstick comedy (again, little or nothing to do with the political plot). All the lines are uttered with hysterical emphasis and rapidity. The net result is, nevertheless, enjoyable and even thrilling occasionally. The crowd scenes are very well staged. The film's politics is not openly "leftist", but a contrarian voice might argue that unilateral disarmament at that point in history would be dangerous. When the opposition deputy asserts that he is against all bombs, American or Russian, one could argue that it is empty rhetoric, since it would have no practical effect on Russian ones.

Rating: 61 (unchanged)