El Condor comes from director John Guillermin and features a script by Larry Cohen and Steve Carabatsos. The cast includes Jim Brown, Lee Van Cleef, Patrick O'Neal, Marianna Hill, and Iron Eyes Cody; Maurice Jarre composed the music, with Henri Persin handling the cinematography. Luke (Brown), an escaped convict from a work detail, and Jaroo (Cleef), who searches for gold, decide to team up to attack a Mexican fort supposedly holding Emperor Maximilian’s gold reserves. They have the support of some Apache Indians, but the fort is well-defended, and General Chavez (O'Neal) leads the Mexican soldiers with cunning and ruthlessness. While Ebert didn't care for it, and opinions are split among those who enjoy this type of movie, the criticism that it’s just a simple action film does hold some truth; however, it is incredibly lively and fun! It wouldn't be reasonable to claim the performances were exceptional—Cleef and Brown mostly rely on their charisma, presence on screen, and easy banter. Nevertheless, Guillermin and producer Andre De Toth knew how to create an action film and how to make that action feel powerful. The spectacle is remarkable, from the Technicolor photography that makes Andalusia seem real, to the impressive adobe fort—and the large number of performers participating in violent battles. El Condor understands exactly what it needs to do to entertain viewers. There's a certain appeal created by some nude scenes which secured the film its original rating. Even though these scenes are mild compared to today’s standards, they weren’t included just for titillation; there is an underlying sexuality present from the start. With its strong displays of masculinity and blending of racial backgrounds, it compensates for any lack of subtlety with a heated atmosphere. And despite what you might have heard about Hill's nude scene, it's beautifully erotic, and it's not hard to imagine she could halt an army in that moment! Good for her. Maurice Jarre has fun composing the score, mixing powerful music with playful touches; it’s a very fitting accompaniment. This leads to the realization that El Condor doesn’t attempt any profound insights into humanity or politics. What it does accomplish is having a great time, with its violent action sequences, a body count from gunfire that would be impressive in a war film, and a sexually charged atmosphere. It's mindless but pure entertainment. So, amen to that! 8/10
On October 4, 2026
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