The Origins and Evolution of the 'Poliziotteschi' Genre in Italian Crime Films

Italian cinema has a rich and diverse history, particularly when it comes to crime films from the 1970s. One term that often comes up in discussions about this era is “poliziotteschi” (singular: poliziottesco), a term that might be unfamiliar to those outside of Italian cinema studies. This article aims to explore the etymology, definitions, and cultural significance of this unique genre.

The Term 'Poliziotteschi'

“Poliziotteschi” is a neologism in the Italian language that may be approximately translated as 'police thriller' or 'cop action'. It is a combination of the words polizia (police) and brutale (brute), which has taken on a specific connotation in the context of this film genre. This term is usually not interchangeable with “poliziesco”, a more general term which simply means 'police procedural'. The confusion arises when non-specialist audiences use the terms interchangeably, leading to the occasional misuse of the term “poliziotteschi”.

Origins and Characteristics

The Italian crime films from the 1970s are a vital part of the country's cinematic heritage. These films became popular as a reaction to the political and social turmoil of the time, particularly the rule of the Sessantotto (1968-1980) and the subsequent establishment of the Molotov Barrett political movement. These films addressed issues such as corruption, power struggles, and the growing organized crime scene, often depicting it as a brutal and real threat to society.

The genre is characterized by its focus on police, and the often morally ambiguous or even corrupt law enforcement officials who are the heroes or anti-heroes of the story. These films often include intense action sequences, violence, and a gritty, realistic portrayal of urban settings. Unlike American crime dramas of the time, which were more procedural in nature, the Italian “poliziotteschi” films often emphasized the life of the police and their struggle against crime.

Press Reception and Criticism

The press, especially those aligned with left-wing parties, were critical of these films. They were often portrayed as a form of propaganda for a repressive government and the police force. Names such as “poliziotteschi” were sometimes used as a pejorative term to label these films. The reason behind this criticism is that these films often glorified the police force, which many saw as an instrument of the state and a representative of the corrupt capitalist system of the time.

Distinguishing Between Genres

It is important to note that not all crime films from Italy during this period are categorized as “poliziotteschi”. Another popular sub-genre was the “giallo”, which is a mystery and suspense film, often with a Gothic or psychoanalytical tone. Some well-known examples include the films of Dario Argento and Gore Verbinski.

A film like The French Connection, a classic American police procedural, would be considered a “film poliziesco” in the context of Italian film studies. Meanwhile, films like Murder on the Orient Express, which feature complex plot twists and psychological suspense, would be classified as “film giallo”.

Conclusion

The term “poliziotteschi” has a specific meaning and context within Italian cinema, and it is not synonymous with the more general “poliziesco” or American procedural films. The genre represents a unique turn in Italian crime films, focusing on the life of the police and their struggles with crime in a tumultuous era. Understanding the cultural and political underpinnings of this term and genre is key to appreciating the richness of Italian cinema and its impact on global cinema.

Related Keywords

Italian Crime Films Poliziotteschi Poliziesco Giallo Poliziesco Genre