The Italian Job Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A newly freed criminal masterminds a gold heist in Italy with some Mini Coopers, causing a massive traffic jam, and then literally leaves you hanging.

🍿 The Italian Job: Detailed Plot Synopsis

The Setup and Initial Heist Plan

The film opens with Roger Beckermann, driving through the Italian Alps, meeting an unfortunate end orchestrated by the Mafia. Later, Charlie Croker is released from prison and presented with Beckermann’s meticulously planned heist to steal a shipment of gold in Turin.

Recruiting the Crew and Gaining Backing

Croker seeks the backing of Mr. Bridger, a criminal mastermind operating from inside prison. With Bridger’s financial support and resources, Croker assembles a diverse crew of specialists, including a computer expert, Professor Peach, to execute the daring plan.

Executing the Heist in Turin

The crew travels to Turin, where they face opposition from the Mafia. They successfully create a massive traffic jam by manipulating the city’s computerised traffic control system, providing cover for their operation. The gang steals the gold and escapes in three Mini Coopers, leading to a memorable chase scene.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Charlie Croker (Michael Caine): A recently released, dapper thief who masterminds a plan to steal a gold shipment from Turin.
• Mr. Bridger (Noël Coward): An incarcerated criminal mastermind who finances Croker’s Italian Job from prison.
• Professor Simon Peach (Benny Hill): A computer expert with an unusual fetish, recruited to disrupt Turin’s traffic control system.
• Altabani (Raf Vallone): The Italian Mafia boss who initially tries to prevent Croker’s gang from stealing the gold.
• Freddie (Tony Beckley): Member of Charlie’s crew.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Charlie Croker: “You’re only supposed to blow the bloody doors off!” – Croker yells this in frustration after Arthur uses too much explosive and destroys an entire van instead of just opening it.
• Mr. Bridger: “Now listen you lot, this is a self-preservation society!” – Mr. Bridger asserts his authority and criminal philosophy to the gathered inmates in prison.
• Charlie Croker: “Hang on a minute lads, I’ve got a great idea!” – The film’s iconic closing line, delivered as the bus teeters precariously over a cliff edge.
• Charlie Croker: “From now on we work as a team. Which means you all do what I say.” – Croker asserts himself as leader and lays down the law for the rest of the gang.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $3,000,000
• Domestic Gross: N/A
• Worldwide Gross: $122,108

💥 The Italian Job Reviews

Personal Review

I recently rewatched The Italian Job, and it’s still a blast! The Mini Cooper chase scenes are absolutely iconic, and Michael Caine is at his charismatic best. What really stood out this time was the film’s cheeky sense of humor and the way it celebrates British ingenuity. The ending, though frustrating, is what makes the movie so memorable. It’s a fun ride from start to almost finish!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of heist movies”
  • “Classic car enthusiasts”
  • “Viewers who enjoy British humor”
  • “Michael Caine fans”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Mild violence”
  • “Brief language”
  • “Theft themes”

Professional Reviews

• Empire Magazine: “A hugely entertaining caper movie, The Italian Job is a true British classic with iconic performances and unforgettable Mini Cooper action.
• The Guardian: “A film remembered very much for its quirky ending and amazing car stunts in the middle of Turin, Italy, The Italian Job does a half-decent job to entertain us with light hearted comedy, thrills, spills and average story
• Variety: “A fun and exciting crime caper with memorable car chases and a brilliant cast. The film is a true classic that is still enjoyable today. The plot is fast paced and well executed.

Audience Reactions

The Mini Cooper chase scenes are iconic and brilliantly executed, showcasing impressive stunt work.: Viewers love the fast-paced action and the film’s humorous take on a classic heist.

Michael Caine’s charismatic performance as Charlie Croker is a highlight, perfectly capturing the character’s wit and charm.: Fans appreciate the strong performances from the entire cast, especially Caine, Coward and Hill, which contribute to the film’s overall appeal.

Overall Consensus: The Italian Job is a beloved British classic celebrated for its iconic Mini Cooper chase scenes, humorous tone, and charismatic performances, although the ending remains divisive.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “BMC (British Motor Corp.), owners of the Mini, refused to donate any cars for this movie. Fiat Motors offered to donate all the cars needed, including Fiat 500s in place of the Minis, but director Peter Collinson wanted British Minis for this British movie.”
• “The Italian Mafia stepped in and shut down whole sections of Turin for filming when the authorities refused to close the roads.”
• “The traffic jams in this movie are real, as are people’s actions during them.”

🖥️ How to Watch The Italian Job?

The Italian Job (1969) is available for streaming and purchase on various platforms. You can find it on services like Prime Video, Apple TV, and through digital retailers. Check your preferred platform for availability in your region. Some platforms may offer rentals or purchases.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed The Italian Job, you might like these similar films:

• The Lavender Hill Mob (1951): A classic British heist comedy involving stealing gold and a clever escape plan.
• Ocean’s Eleven (2001): A modern, stylish heist film with a large ensemble cast and intricate planning.
• The Thomas Crown Affair (1968): A suave, sophisticated heist film with a charismatic lead and a focus on elaborate planning and misdirection.
• Baby Driver (2017): Features incredible driving stunts, great music, and a heist gone wrong, appealing to fans of exciting car sequences.

🛒 The Italian Job Related Products

• The Italian Job (1969) [Blu-ray]: A high-definition Blu-ray version of the classic film, featuring enhanced picture and sound quality, plus behind-the-scenes extras.
• The Italian Job (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack): The complete original soundtrack by Quincy Jones, featuring iconic tracks like “On Days Like These” and “Getta Bloomin’ Move On!”.
• Corgi The Italian Job 3-Piece Mini Cooper Set: A detailed set of the three Mini Coopers from the movie. Celebrate the action with these die-cast models. Features red, white and blue color schemes.
• You’re Only Supposed to Blow the Bloody Doors Off T-Shirt: High-quality cotton t-shirt featuring the film’s iconic quote, a fun way to display movie pride.

🎧 Soundtrack

The Italian Job features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “On Days Like These” – performed by Matt Monro
• “Getta Bloomin’ Move On! (Self Preservation Society)” – performed by The Paramounts
• “Main Title (The Italian Job)” – performed by Quincy Jones

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Former Jewel Thief Reviews Famous Heist Movies, From ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ to ‘Heat’

Ever wondered how accurate heist movies are? This former jewel thief breaks down scenes from ‘The Italian Job’ and others, giving a real insider’s perspective. I was surprised by what he had to say!

The Britalian Job – Official

Check out this awesome tribute to ‘The Italian Job’ by MINI! It’s got celebrities and some seriously cool driving. Definitely worth a watch if you loved the original film.

When an Actor Is Too Passionate – Edward Norton

Did you know Edward Norton starred in ‘The Italian Job’ remake? This video dives into his career and reputation for being a perfectionist on set. It’s a fascinating look at what goes on behind the scenes!

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