· movies · 24 min read
All 61 Lee Van Cleef Movies (in Order)
Get ready to dive into the world of Lee Van Cleef, a versatile actor who left an indelible mark on the film industry. In this article, we’ll be rounding up some of his most iconic and memorable films, showcasing his range as an actor and the legacies he left behind. So sit back, relax, and join us as we celebrate the life and work of this incredible talent.
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1. High Noon (1952)
High Noon, ” directed by Fred Zinnemann, is a classic western drama that packs a powerful punch in just 1 hour and 25 minutes. The film stars Gary Cooper as Marshal Will Kane, a man trying to maintain peace in his small frontier town. However, trouble brews when an outlaw he had put behind bars years prior arrives in town, threatening it.
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2. The Lawless Breed (1952)
The Lawless Breed” is a gripping western drama, set in the year 1896 and inspired by the true story of John Wesley Hardin. The film follows the life of this notorious gunfighter, as he is released from prison and attempts to redeem his tarnished reputation by having his autobiography published. The plot is infused with classic western elements, and the movie’s intricate storytelling adds depth to its characters.
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3. Jack Slade (1953)
In the heart of the 19th century, Jack Slade (1953) is a thrilling Western filled with suspense and revenge. Set in the 1840s and 1850s, the film follows the journey of a young boy named Jack, who swears to eradicate outlaws after witnessing his father’s untimely death during a stagecoach holdup.
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4. Tumbleweed (1953)
Tumbleweed” is a gripping 1953 Western film under the guidance of director Nathan Juran. The movie, written by John Meredyth Lucas and Kenneth Perkins, stars Audie Murphy, Lori Nelson, and Chill Wills.
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5. Vice Squad (1953)
Vice Squad is a gripping crime drama set in the bustling streets of Los Angeles, where LAPD Captain of Detectives Barnie Barnaby finds himself embroiled in a series of intricate cases. The film takes a raw, unflinching look at the dark underbelly of the city, as Barnaby navigates treacherous alliances and pursues justice at any cost.
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6. Arena (1953)
Arena” is an authentic 1950s Western drama that captures the essence of the rodeo world. Set in the picturesque Arizona desert, the film showcases the commitment, perseverance, and determination of the protagonist, a dedicated rodeo rider, played by Gig Young.
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7. The Desperado (1954)
The Desperado is a gripping Western film set in the tumultuous 1870s in Austin, Texas. As the region suffers under the oppressive rule of Governor E.
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8. Gypsy Colt (1954)
In 1954, “Gypsy Colt” takes audiences on a heartwarming journey of love, devotion, and perseverance. This family-friendly Western drama, set in the USA, follows a spirited horse named Colt, who is exceptionally devoted to his young mistress. When the young girl is separated from him due to a motorcycle gang and a devastating drought, Colt embarks on an incredible 500-mile journey over treacherous terrain in search of his beloved owner.
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9. Arrow in the Dust (1954)
In the dusty landscape of the American West, a cavalry deserter, played by Sterling Hayden, finds himself with one chance to redeem himself. When a wagon train, led by the enchanting Colleen Gray, is threatened by a looming Indian attack, the deserter risks his life to deliver a warning and protect the vulnerable passengers.
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10. Dawn at Socorro (1954)
Dawn at Socorro” is a heart-wrenching Western romance set in the 19th century. When a notorious gunfighter, Brett Wade, discovers his diagnosis of tuberculosis, he decides to leave his dangerous past behind and search for a fresh start, all while helping a young woman facing a problem of her own.
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11. The Road to Denver (1955)
The Road to Denver” is a tense 1955 Western film that follows two fugitive Texan brothers, both with contrasting personalities, who find themselves at odds. As they seek refuge in Colorado, the brothers must face the challenges of adopting new roles and competing with rival bosses. Directed by Joseph Kane and featuring a star-studded cast including John Payne, Lee J.
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12. I Cover the Underworld (1955)
Experience an intense crime and drama thriller with the 1955 release, “I Cover the Underworld. ” This gripping film follows the story of a priest eagerly awaiting the reunion with his long-lost twin brother. The twist? .
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13. The Naked Street (1955)
The Naked Street (1955) is a crime drama film noir that brings together a talented ensemble cast, including Farley Granger, Anthony Quinn, and Anne Bancroft. Granger portrays a condemned murderer who finds an unlikely savior in the form of mobster Quinn, who springs him from jail due to his sister’s unplanned pregnancy.
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14. A Man Alone (1955)
A Man Alone”, a 1955 western film directed by Ray Milland, is a thrilling tale of gunfighter’s trust and survival. Set in the Arizona Territory, the main character finds himself accused of a stagecoach massacre.
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15. Ten Wanted Men (1955)
In the rugged Arizona Territory, where power struggles and betrayal lurk around every corner, embittered, jealous rancher Wick Campbell seizes an opportunity to avenge his reputation. When his ward seeks protection with rival cattleman John Stewart, Wick takes matters into his own hands, uniting ten fierce outlaws to help seize power in the territory.
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16. Pardners (1956)
Pardners is a 1956 American comedy-Western film that brings together Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis in a riveting tale revolving around a rich boy’s journey to protect his family ranch. The film sees the arrival of the son of his father’s murdered partner, which sets the stage for an adventure filled with action, humor, and music. As they join forces, the two must outmaneuver a dangerous gang that seeks to seize control of the ranch.
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17. The Conqueror (1956)
In the early 13th century, Mongol chief Temujin, played by John Wayne, faces off against Tartar armies for the love of Tartar princess Bortai in “The Conqueror” (1956). This historical biographical adventure follows Temujin’s journey from a humble warrior to the world’s most powerful leader, the mighty Genghis Khan. Tackling themes like love, ambition, and the rise to power, the film shines a light on the tumultuous times faced by one of the most influential figures in world history.
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18. It Conquered the World (1956)
In “It Conquered the World” (1956), Dr. Paul Nelson, a compassionate scientist, brings an alien creature from Venus to Earth with the intention of eradicating human emotions. However, things take a dark turn as the creature uses its mind control abilities to manipulate humans, resulting in death and sorrow.
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19. Accused of Murder (1956)
In the thrilling 1956 film noir, “Accused of Murder, ” a determined police detective becomes entangled in a dangerous game of deception when he falls for a captivating nightclub singer. As he reluctantly gets involved with the wrong side of the law, he finds himself embroiled in a high-stakes murder investigation.
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20. Tribute to a Bad Man (1956)
Tribute to a Bad Man” is a captivating 1956 film directed by Robert Wise and written by Michael Blankfort and Jack Schaefer. The story revolves around notorious horse rancher Jeremy Rodak, played by the legendary James Cagney, who runs his sprawling spread with an unyielding grip. In the treacherous wild west, Jeremy is renowned for his unrelenting pursuit of rustlers, leaving no room for mercy.
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21. The Lonely Man (1957)
The Lonely Man, a gripping 1957 Western drama, follows the story of an aging gunslinger, Jacob Wade, played by Jack Palance. Haunted by his violent past, Wade longs to leave his life of danger behind and reconnect with his estranged son. However, his hope for a peaceful existence is complicated by the return of his former adversaries, who are eager to exact their revenge.
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22. The Quiet Gun (1957)
The Quiet Gun” is a gripping 1957 western drama that unravels when Sheriff Carl Brandon becomes entangled in a town’s attempt to lynch his best friend. Accused of murder and immorality by the townsfolk, it becomes Brandon’s mission to uphold justice and protect a damsel in distress.
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23. Gunfight at the O.K. Corral (1957)
Experience the legendary Gunfight at the O. K. Corral in this thrilling 1957 Western drama. Lawman Wyatt Earp, played by Burt Lancaster, teams up with outlaw Doc Holliday, portrayed by Kirk Douglas, in an unforeseen alliance.
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24. The Tin Star (1957)
The Tin Star, ” released in 1957, is a classic Western film that follows the story of a cynical former sheriff turned bounty hunter who finds himself helping a young, recently appointed acting sheriff. As the two work together, the older sheriff provides valuable advice, experience, and even his gun to aid the young man in his new role. Set in a small town, this movie explores themes of agony and the unpredictability of life.
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25. China Gate (1957)
China Gate” is a gripping 1957 war drama directed by Samuel Fuller. Set during the tumultuous French Indochina War, the film follows an Eurasian female smuggler and a group of French Foreign Legion mercenaries as they embark on a perilous mission to infiltrate enemy territory and destroy a vital arms depot. The story explores themes of racism and camaraderie amidst the harsh realities of war.
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26. The Young Lions (1958)
The Young Lions” is a gripping war drama set during World War II, focusing on the lives of three young men - a German and two Americans - as they navigate the chaos and brutality of the battlefield. Directed by Edward Dmytryk and written by Edward Anhalt and Irwin Shaw, the film showcases powerful performances by Marlon Brando, Montgomery Clift, and Dean Martin. With captivating action sequences and tense dramatic moments, “The Young Lions” offers insight into the human cost of war and the complexities of loyalty, friendship, and betrayal.
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27. The Bravados (1958)
The Bravados” is a gripping and suspenseful Western drama released in 1958. This movie, directed by Henry King, follows the story of a man seeking revenge for the brutal crime committed against his wife.
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28. Day of the Bad Man (1958)
Day of the Bad Man” is a classic Western film from 1958, starring Fred MacMurray as Judge Jim Scott. Set in a small western town where tensions run high and lawlessness prevails, the movie follows Scott’s fight for justice and his struggle to contend with the vicious relatives of a murderer he’s about to sentence.
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29. Ride Lonesome (1959)
Ride Lonesome” is a thrilling 1959 Western that combines action, suspense, and classic western themes. Starring Randolph Scott as a tenacious bounty hunter, the movie follows his journey escorting a ruthless killer (James Best) to face trial for murder. But as they trek through the unforgiving New Mexico desert, the outlaw’s deadly brother, portrayed by Lee Van Cleef, catches up with them, setting the stage for an explosive showdown that unravels past transgressions.
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30. Posse from Hell (1961)
In the intense and action-packed western “Posse from Hell” (1961), deputy Banner Cole is determined to bring a group of deadly outlaws to justice. When four escapees from a death cell murder the sheriff, Cole assembles a small posse to track them down. The criminals, who took a woman hostage with plans to ravage her, have proved to be ruthless and cunning, leading to an unrelenting chase.
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31. How the West Was Won (1962)
Get ready for an epic journey through the annals of American history as “How the West Was Won” unravels the dramatic story of Westward expansion in the 19th century. Spanning several decades, this family saga brings to life the Gold Rush, the Civil War, and the construction of railroads.
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32. The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962)
The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, released in 1962, is a dramatic Western film that transports viewers back to the 19th century. This enthralling tale revolves around a senator’s return to a quaint Western town for the funeral of an old friend, a renowned outlaw. As the senator reminisces, he shares the story of his origins and the pivotal events that shaped his journey.
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33. For a Few Dollars More (1965)
For a Few Dollars More, ” a classic Western film released in 1967, is directed by renowned filmmaker Sergio Leone. This gritty adventure, set in the Wild West, follows the stories of two bounty hunters who come together in pursuit of an escaped Mexican outlaw, all while navigating a harrowing landscape filled with violence, deception, and betrayal.
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34. The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (1966)
The Good, the Bad and the Ugly” is a cinematic masterpiece directed by Sergio Leone and featuring Clint Eastwood, Eli Wallach, and Lee Van Cleef as the starring trio. Set in the tumultuous backdrop of the American Civil War, this Italian-Spanish-German production takes audiences on an exhilarating adventure, weaving together themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of fortune.
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35. Death Rides a Horse (1967)
Death Rides a Horse, also known as Da Uomo a Uomo, is a gripping 1967 Western film directed by Giulio Petroni, which boasts a star-studded cast including Lee Van Cleef, John Phillip Law, and Mario Brega. With a 1 hour and 54-minute runtime, this spaghetti western drama takes us on a thrilling journey through the Wild West, where a young, fearless gunfighter, played by John Phillip Law, teams up with an elderly, once-infamous outlaw, portrayed by Lee Van Cleef. They have a common goal: to seek justice for the gunfighter’s family, who were brutally murdered by a notorious gang of bandits.
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36. El Condor (1970)
El Condor, ” a thrilling 1970 adventure, follows two daring fortune hunters on an impossible quest for the legendary El Condor, a hidden treasure rumored to contain vast reserves of gold. With tantalizing visions of wealth dancing in their heads, the duo rushes headlong into danger, learning the hard way that greed can lead to deadly consequences.
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37. Bad Man’s River (1971)
Step into the wild west with Lee Van Cleef in “Bad Man’s River, ” a thrilling 1971 Western comedy that’s brimming with action and romance. When notorious outlaw Roy King loses his beloved wife, Alicia, to revolutionary leader Montero, they must put their rivalry aside and join forces for the ultimate heist: robbing the Mexican government of one million dollars. With a deadly Winchester rifle and unmatched cunning, King and Montero navigate a series of street shootouts to secure their fortune.
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38. Captain Apache (1971)
In the thrilling western drama “Captain Apache, ” Lee Van Cleef stars as a Native American US Army officer named Captain Apache. When he is tasked with investigating a murder, he stumbles upon a shocking presidential assassination plot. As he delves deeper into the mystery, Captain Apache must use his skills and resourcefulness to uncover the truth and protect the nation’s highest office.
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39. The Grand Duel (1972)
The Grand Duel” is a thrilling spaghetti western that takes the genre to new heights. Set in the wild west, a former sheriff, now a grizzled and weary figure, finds himself entangled in a dangerous game of power and revenge.
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40. The Magnificent Seven Ride! (1972)
The Magnificent Seven Ride! ” is a 1972 action-packed western film that follows the story of Marshal Chris Adams. As personal circumstances force him to seek help, he recruits a writer and five prisoners from Tucson Territorial Prison to battle against a gang of ruthless Mexican bandits. With the aid of a long-range rifle and the determination to protect the town, the unlikely group of heroes embark on a thrilling journey to eliminate the bandits and restore peace to their home.
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41. Take a Hard Ride (1975)
Take a Hard Ride, an action-packed adventure set in the Wild West, brings together an all-star cast and features an enthralling storyline. The film follows ranch owner Morgan, who sells his cattle and suddenly dies, leaving his foreman Pike to deliver a dangerous payroll to Sonora, Mexico, while being relentlessly pursued by malicious characters.
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42. God’s Gun (1976)
God’s Gun, originally known as Diamante Lobo, is a 1976 spaghetti western film directed by Gianfranco Parolini. With a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes and an R rating, this Italian and Israeli production brings to life an intense Western tale.
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43. Vengeance (1976)
Vengeance, released in 1976, follows Tom, a young man seeking retribution for his parents’ brutal murder at the hands of Mexican gangsters led by the violent Van Cleef. As his quest for justice unfolds, he forms an unlikely alliance with a successful gold prospector who’s also been wronged by the same group.
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44. Nowhere to Hide (1977)
In the gritty, crime-ridden world of “Nowhere to Hide” (1977), a syndicate hitman is entrusted with a life-altering decision - to testify against his former bosses, who have targeted him for assassination. As his fate hangs in the balance, a specialized unit of the U. S. Marshal’s Service is assigned to secure his protection. Their mission takes them to a remote island, where they must confront not only the relentless pursuit of their enemies but also their own moral compasses.
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45. The Squeeze (1978)
The Squeeze” is a thrilling crime-comedy-drama that takes audiences on a high-stakes heist ride. The film, released in 1978, follows a retired safe cracker (Lee Van Cleef) who is lured out of retirement by a young and ambitious conman (Edward Albert) for a daring million-dollar heist.
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46. The Octagon (1980)
The Octagon” is an action-packed 1980 film starring the legendary Chuck Norris in the lead role. A martial artist, Norris is faced with a sinister plot hatched by ninjas to create a global training camp for terrorists. This exciting thriller takes viewers on a journey of suspense, danger, and martial arts expertise.
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47. The Hard Way (1980)
The Hard Way” is a gripping crime thriller from 1980, starring Patrick McGoohan, Lee Van Cleef, and Edna O’Brien. The story revolves around a professional assassin who is forced to take on one final, high-stakes assignment.
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48. Escape from New York (1981)
In the near future, Manhattan has been transformed into a lawless, maximum-security prison. When the U. S. President crashes into the city, a convicted bank robber is sent in to rescue him.
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49. Goma-2 (1984)
In the gritty and action-packed Goma-2, audiences are introduced to a former terrorist-turned-law-abiding-citizen - now a truck driver. Amid a perilous journey, he ignores mafia warnings, resulting in a terrifying incident: a fire burning his truck, with his wife on board. Driven by vengeance, he embarks on a desperate quest to confront the dark forces responsible. Goma-2 presents a thrilling blend of high-octane action and intense drama, with a tense atmosphere that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
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50. Armed Response (1986)
Armed Response” is a high-octane 1986 action crime thriller following the vengeful brothers of Clay Roth, a soldier turned private investigator who was tragically killed during an exchange staged by the thief. His comrades, driven by a desire for justice, embark on a mission of retaliation against the Yakusa and Chinese Tong whose gang has been fueling crime in the city.
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51. Speed Zone (1989)
Speed Zone, ” released in 1989, is an entertaining mix of action, comedy, and sports genres. The film follows the thrilling coast-to-coast car race, where drivers flout traffic rules and face dangerous police roadblocks.
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52. The Best of the Martial Arts Films (1990)
In “The Best of the Martial Arts Films” (1990), a documentary celebrating martial arts action, renowned actors like John Saxon, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Chris Casamassa take center stage. Directed and written by talented filmmaker Sandra Weintraub, this docu-drama delves deep into the world of martial arts, showcasing the thrilling action sequences and captivating the hearts of action-loving viewers.
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53. Thieves of Fortune (1990)
Thieves of Fortune” is a high-energy, action-packed romantic adventure film released in 1990. Filled with stunts that are sure to captivate audiences, the movie follows the story of a beautiful woman who must overcome feats of bravery to inherit a whopping $28 million fortune and win the heart of the man she loves. From nerve-wracking plane stunts to heart-pounding motorcycle chases, cliff diving to wrestling alligators, and thrilling gun battles, this thrilling ride delivers non-stop action and adventure.
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54. Bruce Lee and Kung Fu Mania (1992)
Delve into the world of martial arts action with the compelling documentary, Bruce Lee and Kung Fu Mania. Released in 1992, this captivating film highlights some of the best moments from the 70s and 80s in the realm of martial arts cinema.
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55. Kill Bill: Vol. 2 (2004)
Kill Bill: Vol. 2” follows the vengeful Bride (Uma Thurman), who continues her relentless quest for retribution against her deceptive former boss and lover Bill (David Carradine), the treacherous Elle Driver (Daryl Hannah), and her sibling Budd (Michael Madsen).
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56. Il falso bugiardo (2008)
Il falso bugiardo” (2008) is a captivating documentary that delves into the fascinating life and career of renowned screenplay writer Luciano Vincenzoni. Based on his biography “Pane e cinema, ” the film offers an insightful retrospective on Vincenzoni’s remarkable journey in Hollywood and the Italian film industry.
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57. How the West Was Lost (2008)
How the West Was Lost” is a compelling documentary by Rich Hall that delves into the fascinating history of the Western film genre. The movie is a masterclass in storytelling that expertly explores how the quintessentially American genre ultimately lost its footing in the world of cinema.
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58. Corman’s World: Exploits of a Hollywood Rebel (2011)
Corman’s World: Exploits of a Hollywood Rebel” is a riveting documentary that delves into the life and work of DIY filmmaker Roger Corman, a pioneer in the world of Hollywood cinema. With a unique approach to movie-making, Corman paved the way for a new generation of filmmakers. This captivating documentary showcases interviews with industry legends including Martin Scorsese and Quentin Tarantino, who credit Corman as a major influence on their own careers.
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59. Eurocrime! The Italian Cop and Gangster Films That Ruled the ’70s (2012)
Eurocrime! . The Italian Cop and Gangster Films That Ruled the ’70s” is a captivating documentary that delves into the thrilling and often brutal Italian ‘poliziotteschi’ films of the 1970s.
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60. 6 Bullets to Hell (2016)
6 Bullets to Hell” is a thrilling Grindhouse-style Spaghetti Western that transports you back to the classic European Westerns of the 1960s. Following the brutal murder of his wife by infamous outlaw Bobby Durango and his gang, protagonist Billy Rodgers is forced back into his old gun to hunt them down.
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61. Sad Hill Unearthed (2017)
Sad Hill Unearthed” is a captivating 2017 documentary film that follows the passionate journey of fans and filmmakers who work tirelessly to restore the iconic graveyard set from the legendary spaghetti western, “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly” (1966). Directed and written by Guillermo de Oliveira, this heartfelt film takes viewers behind the scenes of their mission to revisit and preserve the history of the timeless classic.
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