Plot: A widow (Sophia Loren) indirectly leads a mob hit man (James Coburn) and his partner (O.J. Simpson) to a billionaire recluse in the Caribbean.
I have to thank my friend Nathan for reminding me of this movie from Death Wish director Michael Winner and a cast that includes James Coburn, Sophia Loren, O.J. Simpson and Eli Wallach.
Firepower is a hugely entertaining action-packed romp that was initially going to star Charles Bronson, but he as usual wanted his wife Jill Ireland to have a role, but as that didn’t happen, he dropped out and was replaced by Coburn who very much makes the role of Fanon his own.
Firepower is filled with twists and double crosses, and you aren’t quite sure who can be trusted, but we know Fanon is a “good guy” and a reliable protagonist who uses his twin Eddie to confuse his enemies. Coburn is at his charming yet badass best here and we are always on Fanon’s side as he tries to bring Stegner to justice.
Sophia Loren must have loved playing a role like this as Adele Tasca is an interesting character who isn’t what she seems manipulating events to her advantage because she likes money and power.
At 100 minutes long Firepower has some fantastic action scenes including a helicopter attacking a boat with plenty of gunfire and explosions, intrigue, and a satisfying finale. It feels like a Bond picture which I believe was the point especially from the frankly amazing poster which even features tuxedos and explosions.
The music score is fantastically 70’s with slinky saxophones giving the film a sexy vibe. I’ve said it before but why do we never hear saxophones anymore? I guess they are associated with that time period, but I do love them in my movies.
Overall, Firepower has a great cast and some awesome action scenes with James Coburn at his charismatic best and Sophia Loren perfectly cast as Adele.
