[Review] Street Law (1974)
Junesploitation 2025
It is that time of year again, Junesploitation is here and what a way to kick off the month with the prompt ‘Italian Crime’! I decided to go with Street Law (1974), a first time watch for me and I am quite glad I picked this one.
Franco Nero stars as Carlo, every day man who ends up in the wrong place at the wrong time as he crosses paths with a group who rob the Post Office when he’s there and take him hostage. After a wild car chase with the police, he’s let go as they make their escape. Carlo soon finds out the police will do nothing and he decides to take matters into his own hands. Via some very complex blackmail he gains a shotgun and the help of someone unlikely to get revenge on the criminals.
This story could have been a Western, it very much acts like one in the more contemporary setting, which fit Franco Nero quite well with his performance as Carlo. You can feel the pain he’s in throughout the film, even if some may be his own doing, he feels as though he doesn’t have a choice and that is believable. As his journey unfolds he uncovers police corruption but also the target of those he wants revenge on.
The first and third acts are the stronger parts of the film, with the middle being a little clunky at times. It has some intense moments, especially during the start and towards the latter half of the film. It’s shot nicely, with some moments that felt like Fulci with the artistic brutality. It may have similarities with Death Wish (1974) but it is quite different. Street Law is a fine film, very much recommended for those who enjoy their Italian crime films.
Rating:
Review written by Marcella Papandrea
The Super Network 