Search - Return of Sabata on DVD

2 1/2 stars - Return of Sabata is no Sabata

Robert W. Grandcolas | Eatontown, NJ United States | 08/12/2007

(2 out of 5 stars)

"The third in the series cannot hold a candle to the original Sabata. And is obviously shot on a much smaller budget and scale then the flawed Adios Sabata.



In 'Return of Sabata' Van Cleef and most of the original cast from Sabata are back but have the thankless task of trying to keep a somewhat dull and confusing film on track. They almost manage it. The opening theme song is typical of the problems with the film. Like the film - you don't know how to take the song. Is it unintentionally inept and silly or purposely tongue in cheek, campy or meant as joke? There are too many paterns and ideas started and then dropped - it seems the film makers were trying to be too much for too many. The plot is for the most part incomprehensible. All this said - there are still some clever twists, gimmicks and enough color and humor to keep you entertained. The entire cast is very good. Its also one of the last Van Cleef films of some quality. Stylistically there appears to be some Mario Bava influence - especially on the way the action is filmed and colorful lighting used in a very clever opening scene. Too bad the film makers did not chose to keep this up for the rest of the film.



It is ludicrous that Harry & Michael Medved chose Return of Sabata to be one of their "The Fifty Worst Films of All Time." Did Van Cleef snub them?...hmmmm -



The film stock - crispness, contrast, and color - is excellent. The sound quality - although mono is top grade and full bodied and almost devoid of hiss. There are no extras.

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