On this day, 10 May, in 1966, For a Few Dollars More was released in the US.
It was the follow-up to A Fistful of Dollars. At one time, I liked it better but I eventually realized that was only because I enjoyed seeing Lee Van Cleef as a good guy.
But in the long run, I don’t like it all that much. The flashback scenes of Indio and Mortimer’s sister are prime examples of Sergio Leone at his worst.
Also, the plot is a mess with Indo being both unbelievably smart and stupid.
But if you haven’t seen the film, you definitely should. It’s nice just to hang out with Van Cleef and Clint Eastwood for a couple of hours. And there are a number of comedic elements like the old man who refused to sell his property to the railroad and the hat-shooting scene.
Mothra
On this day in 1962, Mothra was released in the US.
Okay, so it isn’t a serious film like Godzilla. But it’s much more fanciful — like a Ray Harryhausen film.
Dead Man
On this day in 1996, Jim Jarmusch’s Dead Man was put into general release. When I first saw it, I didn’t enjoy it that much. I was expecting a traditional narrative. Over time, my love of the film has only increased.
It’s both deep and deeply twisted. I never lose my appreciation for Lance Henriksen’s eating Michael Wincott’s hand. That should be enough to get you to watch it.
Thunder Road
On this day in 1958, Thunder Road was released. It’s hard not to like Robert Mitchum. And here he is as a bootleg transporter so we get lots of car chases and bravado.
The formula has been copied many times but this zippy little feature is a must-see for psychotronic fans.
For a Few Dollars More poster via Wikipedia under Fair use.
