Cesare Mori (1871–1942) was one of the 20th century's most brutally effective crime fighters, known as “The Iron Prefect” for his harsh approach to destabilizing Mafia control in Sicily. This Italian TV production dramatizes Mori's efforts to thwart criminals by using the Sicilian people as part of a strategy that included setting up roadblocks around villages where the Mafia had its stronghold. When informed that the community could not access food or water as a result, Mori refused to yield until he gained information from the locals. The plan worked—in a single night, Mori was responsible for the arrest of 300 Mafia hoodlums and other non-Mafia individuals who had terrorized Sicily. Mori's efforts impressed no less a figure than Mussolini, who appointed him to curb the Mafia presence in Palermo; but Mori's uncovering of evidence that linked Mafia chieftains with government officials in Rome ultimately hastened the early decline of his law enforcement career. While it tells an engrossing story, the drama is somewhat undercut by the miscasting of Swiss actor Vincent Pérez in the title role, an actor who is better known as a glamorous leading man than a gritty tough guy. Nevertheless, this is a handsome production that tells an often engrossing story, making it a strong optional purchase. (P. Hall)
Cesare Mori
MHz, 2 discs, 200 min., in Italian with English subtitles, not rated, DVD: $29.95 Volume 30, Issue 1
Cesare Mori
Star Ratings
As of March 2022, Video Librarian has changed from a four-star rating system to a five-star one. This change allows our reviewers to have a wider range of critical viewpoints, as well as to synchronize with Google’s rating structure. This change affects all reviews from March 2022 onwards. All reviews from before this period will still retain their original rating. Future film submissions will be considered our new 1-5 star criteria.
Order From Your Favorite Distributor Today: