The Seven-Ups (1973)

Nice seventies crime film. Routine or typical, it all depends on your point of view. I like the zeitgeist, vibe, that kind of thing, so it starts going pretty quickly, although this one has some trouble with that. Where someone like Friedkin immediately managed to give it an agitated atmosphere, D'Antoni starts a bit sluggish. Certainly in the beginning it could have had a bit more verve. Fortunately that improves gradually, there is something nice with a car wash, the much-mentioned chase does what it has to do and there is an interrogation technique that stands out. Scheider is in his place here and there are still a few striking faces from that time walking around and that is enough for a nice pass.

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Doesn't quite reach the level of Bullitt and French Connection, where I found the story more gripping, but of course very similar in atmosphere. Indeed another great chase: in fact the same structure as in Bullitt (you can feel the start and end coming). Definitely worth a second viewing.

And yes, that one interrogation technique... is that actually allowed?

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At the end of the working week, when the wife and kids are in bed, I often like to watch a movie. And one from the 70s (or 80s) often has my preference. I had already seen this one, and it remains okay. You will not really get into suspense, nor will the denouement be of any concern to you. For that, the plot is a bit flat. But the 70s atmosphere is good, especially because most of it was filmed in the big city (NY, Chicago or something, I guess?) and that gives a lot in terms of period. The previously mentioned chase through the city was also nice. But in terms of suspense or plot it is still too thin. French connection, for example, is better. Roy does have the perfect head for his role and plays (again) well and certainly above average. Take the scene where his car hits a truck, the moment he gets out seemed quite real. The rest also play their roles well.

Definitely not the best of its kind, but I had a great time.

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