(1972), widely known by its English title The Italian Connection , is a cornerstone of the poliziotteschi (Italian crime) genre. Directed by Fernando Di Leo , it is the middle chapter of his renowned "Milieu Trilogy," following Milan Caliber 9 and preceding The Boss . Plot Overview
The story follows (Mario Adorf), a small-time Milanese pimp who finds himself in the crosshairs of the New York Mafia. Accused of stealing a massive heroin shipment—a crime actually committed and pinned on him by local boss Don Vito Tressoldi (Adolfo Celi)—Luca is hunted by two professional American hitmen, Dave Catania (Henry Silva) and Frank Webster (Woody Strode). La mala ordina [360p] (1972)