Usually Italian films of the 60's, 70's, and 80's are considered sub par products primarily made for export to foreign markets. In many cases the WWII film followed the same formula. Take the plot of The Dirty Dozen, recycle it, add a trampoline and you have an entirely new and exportable film! (Yes, this is a dig at Cinque per l'inferno aka Five for Hell)
La Battaglia di El Alamein struck me as different in that it focuses on the Italian army rather than German or American as usual for Italian war cinema of the time. The movie shows the Italian forces in a patriotic light. Some may balk at this portrayal as the Italian forces are generally characterized historically as inefficient units dogged by low morale. The movie has a generality of historical accuracy, embellished for cinematic reasons. The British are characterized as cold unfeeling soldiers, no worse than American directors portray Axis forces, though. Perhaps Battle of El Alamein portrays the Italian as a little too brave and heroic but this is the same heavy-handed treatment heroes in American films were given up until recently. The film stands out as an Italian production made for Italy's own populace. In this light any shortcomings can be overlooked. Yes, even miniature remote controlled model tanks that rumble across the desert can be overlooked. An Italian production heads and shoulders above many b-grade counterparts of this time period.
La Battaglia di El Alamein struck me as different in that it focuses on the Italian army rather than German or American as usual for Italian war cinema of the time. The movie shows the Italian forces in a patriotic light. Some may balk at this portrayal as the Italian forces are generally characterized historically as inefficient units dogged by low morale. The movie has a generality of historical accuracy, embellished for cinematic reasons. The British are characterized as cold unfeeling soldiers, no worse than American directors portray Axis forces, though. Perhaps Battle of El Alamein portrays the Italian as a little too brave and heroic but this is the same heavy-handed treatment heroes in American films were given up until recently. The film stands out as an Italian production made for Italy's own populace. In this light any shortcomings can be overlooked. Yes, even miniature remote controlled model tanks that rumble across the desert can be overlooked. An Italian production heads and shoulders above many b-grade counterparts of this time period.