RULERS OF THE CITY

Cinemavixion Review

Fernando Di Leo's 'Rulers of the City' (1976) plunges viewers into the gritty underworld of Italian crime cinema. The film, also known as 'The Boss's Men', masterfully blends elements of crime thriller and social commentary. Jack Palance delivers a commanding performance as a police commissioner determined to bring order to a city overrun by ruthless gangs. He assembles a specialized unit of motorcycle-riding officers, a novel approach that adds a dynamic visual flair to the ensuing cat-and-mouse game. The narrative, while rooted in familiar genre tropes, is elevated by Di Leo's distinctive directorial style, characterized by stark realism and unflinching violence. The ensemble cast, including Al Cliver and Harry Baer, provides solid support, contributing to the film's authentic portrayal of the era's criminal landscape. 'Rulers of the City' stands as a compelling example of the poliziottesco genre, offering both thrilling action and a critical look at societal decay.