To honour Dino De Laurentiis, a man who helped create some incredible movies in his time I present the Dino De Laurentis double feature – perfect to celebrate the man who produced over 500 movies. The Italian died last week, aged 95,
Dino De Laurentiis film credits as producer stretch over 60 years featuring a variety of genres and show a man willing to take risks and work outside the studio system.
To start with we’ll go for one of his classics.
Serpico (1973) is a classic gangster film staring Al Pacino and directed by Sidney Lumet. Based on the true story of New York cop Frank Serpico. A minor classic of the genre it ws nominated for Academy Awards for Best Actor in a Leading Role (Al Pacino) and Best Writing, Screenplay Based on Material from Another Medium. Pacino won his first Golden Globe award for Best Actor in 1974 for his performance in the film.
On to our trailers and here’s where things can get a little crazy. The variety of films he made is incredible, we’ve already mentioned Danger: Diabolik in this Movie Double Feature but, there is plenty of other insanity.
For example, or perhaps this
Or well before Peter Jackson had the idea there was this from Dino De Laurentiis
On to or second feature and I’ve decided to go high camp. I could have included a host of great movies , Manhunter, Blue Velvet, Dead Zone. But instead I’ve picked a film that is loved and maligned in equal measure from Dino De Laurentiis, but features one of the best soundtracks around.
Flash Gordon (1980) took an ageing franchise and injected it with plenty of cheese. The old black and white serials were serious shows but, because of this film, the character will always be touched by a degree of irony now.
It’s also incredibly quotable and fun. Repeat after me “GORDON’S ALIVE!???!!”
Dino De Laurentiis would be proud.