The Seven-Ups (1973)

The Seven-Ups is often remembered for its car-chase sequence but there's much more to this film than just automotive thrills. Indeed, The Seven-Ups is just as interesting when it isn't concentrating on action; the script draws the viewer in by letting them figure out the personas and events driving the story instead of spelling it all out, and Philip D'Antoni directs the film in a confident style, giving it a gritty yet stylish look and underplaying the dramatic moments to give them greater effect. The Seven-Ups is also boosted by solid, naturalistic performances from a quality cast: Roy Scheider and Tony Lo Bianco are both effortlessly convincing as men who approach their respective ambitions with a single-minded, streetwise mentality, and Richard Lynch is creepy as an amoral crook who is ruled by his lust for money. Finally, the action lives up to the tough nature of the storyline (the central car chase is truly breathtaking) and the unexpected ending finishes the film on a haunting note. All in all, The Seven-Ups is one of Hollywood's best police-oriented thrillers from the 1970s and a must for those fond of this subgenre. ~ Donald Guarisco, All Movie Guide