The Squeeze (1978)

A retired safe cracker is recruited by a young conman to return to the "business" for a million dollar heist.

Director:

Antonio Margheriti (as Anthony M. Dawson)

Writers:

Paul Costello (screenplay), Paul Costello (story)

Stars:

Lee Van Cleef, Karen Black, Edward Albert

Cast

Complete credited cast:
Lee Van Cleef	...	Chris Gretchko / Ray Sloan
Karen Black	...	Clarisse Saunders
Edward Albert	...	Jeff Olafsen
Lionel Stander	...	Sam
Robert Alda	...	Captain Donati
Angelo Infanti	...	Inspector
Antonella Murgia	...	Jessica
Peter Carsten	...	Van Stratten
Dan van Husen	...	Hans (as Rudolf van Husen)
Dyane Silverstein	...	Cashier
Steven Burch	...	Fred (as Steve Burche)
Ron Van Clief	...	Duke
Bob Hevelone	...	Lieutenant (as Bob Avalone)
Roy Brocksmith	...	Warehouse Owner
Ewald G. Spader	...	Electrician

Storyline

Lee Van Cleef is a safe cracker coming out of retirement to pull off one last caper. The Germans behind the theft are planning to steal $1,000,000. But unbeknownst to the safe cracker, they are planning to kill him afterward. When he learns of their intent, he begins plotting his revenge.

---

Plot Keywords:

poliziottesco | german poliziottesco | italian exploitation | exploitation | grindhouse film | 

---

Taglines:

The place was New York City. The rip-off was worth six million in diamonds. The double-cross was worth more lives than you can count!

---

Genres:

Comedy | Crime | Drama

---

Certificate:

R

Did You Know?

Goofs

The thug's hand alternates between Jeff's throat and shoulder between shots, right after Jeff is bailed out of jail.

User Reviews

No Honor for Diamond Thieves

For one last heist, grizzled safe-cracker Lee Van Cleef (as Chris) is lured out of retirement by cocky young Edward Albert (as Jeff). Later on, both men are acquainted with sexy Karen Black (as Clarisse). As events proceed, everyone's life is put in danger, and you can count on some deception among the ranks. With these three in the cast, you would expect a good run for the money, but the picture falls flat on its face. It starts off well, and gets bogged down by musical interludes, as the cameras wander around New York City looking for action. At one point, supporting cast member Lionel Stander (as Sam) says, "Shazam!" Alas, there is no magic.

*** The Squeeze (10/25/78) Antonio Margheriti ~ Lee Van Cleef, Edward Albert, Karen Black, Lionel Stander

Details

Country:

Italy West Germany

Language:

English

Release Date:

3 August 1978 (Netherlands)

Also Known As:

Diamond Thieves

Filming Locations:

New Jersey, USA

Company Credits

Production Co:

Dritte Centama Gmbtl.

Technical Specs

Runtime:

99 min

Sound Mix:

Mono (Westrex Recording System)

Color:

Color (Eastmancolor) Color (Technicolor)

Aspect Ratio:

1.33 : 1