Little Bit of History: The third film in the “Dollars Trilogy”, originally released 1966 and directed by Sergio Leone. Starring Clint Eastwood, Lee Van Cleef, and Eli Wallach in the title roles. The film was a financial success, grossing over $25 million at the box office.
Little Bit of Plot/Story: During the American Civil War, three men set off to find $200,000 in buried gold coins. Blondie (The Good), Angel Eyes (The Bad) and Tuco (The Ugly). The Good & The Ugly team up in an attempt to find the gold, but neither man trusts each other. While The Bad uses more nefarious means to find the gold.
Little Bit of Character: The stars of the show really are the main three; Blondie (The Good) who is a fairly quiet but deadly gunslinger with a strong sense of honour, played by Clint Eastwood. Angel Eyes (The Bad) is a cruel cold-blooded murderer played by Lee Van Cleef with Tuco (The Ugly) is a greedy and fast-tempered man played by Eli Wallach.
Little Bit of Influence: One of the films that shaped and changed the American western forever. This film would also go on to influence film directors such as Quentin Tarantino, who calls this film “the best film ever made.”. Even the film’s star Clint Eastwood would be influenced by this film when he made Unforgiven and even dedicated that film to Sergio Leone. The film also influenced video games such as Red Dead Redemption.
Little Bit of Memories: I’ll always remember my older brother introducing me to this film when I was younger. Also how this film made me such a fan of Clint Eastwood and even Sergio Leone. That Ennio Morricone’s musical score is iconic and instantly recognisable, especially the main theme.
Little Bit of Watchability: Very much still watchable…in fact I have this film on as I’m writing this overview. One of the best and defining films of it’s genre and one can see how impactful and influential it was even to this day.
Tuco: “When you have to shoot, shoot. Don’t talk.”
This is just one part of my 85th Birthday celebration of Clint Eastwood. Please also read my overview of Unforgiven and my Happy Birthday Clint editorial.
Little Bits of Gaming & Movies 