For a few Dollars LESS 1966

I thought it was about time to feature this elusive little Italian film from 1966. Directed by Mario Mattoli, Per qualche dollaro in meno is clearly a comedy parody of For a Few Dollars More. Lando Buzzanca starred as Bill, the Eastwood character, complete with the famous lookalike poncho. It’s a little surprising, given the cultural history of the dollar trilogy that this film has not since been picked up and distributed for a home video release. I’m sure that the film has been circulated in unofficial circles, but I can’t help thinking it would probably do rather well if picked up by one of the majors. It’s hard to determine how far the film was released in theatrical terms outside of Italy - where it was released on the 11th August 1966. When shown on German TV it aired with the title Irren ist tödlich. I certainly have no knowledge of it receiving a UK theatrical release.

Technically, the film had a running time of 95 mins and was shot in the scope ratio of 2.35:1. The soundtrack, composed by Italian Marcello Giombini (1928–2003) clearly plays on Morricone’s themes, but as far as I am aware there was never any form of soundtrack released.

It’s certainly a strange one and a film that I would someday like to see – if only to satisfy my morbid curiosity…

Below: Official Trailer