The Stone Killer

In his original 1973 review of Michael Winner's "The Stone Killer," Roger Ebert called the film "a superior example of its type - tough cop against the mob - and probably the best violent big-city police movie since "Dirty Harry." It's not much more, nor does it mean to be; it offers stylish escapism at breakneck speed, and it gives us a chase and a gun battle that surpass themselves. That's what people go to movies like this for..."

Michael Winner understood the neck-breaking impact of tough-guy action cinema, showcasing his chops again and again, often with his muse and frequent leading man, Charles Bronson, in tow. The Winner and Bronson combo is a magical one for fans of muscular macho movies where the toughness is exhibited in more than just the on-screen action.

"The Stone Killer" is arguably a lesser known entry in comparison to other Winner/Bronson vehicles like "Death Wish" and "The Mechanic," but it embodies a similar purpose. It's pace, power and punch are undeniable. This movie is a thick piece of sirloin steak, served bloody as hell, with a heaping pile of mashed potatoes on the side.

The film stars Bronson as a tough cop going against the Mafia in a vendetta for a decades-old massacre, while the crime family's Don (Martin Balsam) uses Vietnam vets as his hit men. Like two of Twilight Time's other releases this month, "Brutal Tales of Chivalry" and "Who'll Stop the Rain," "The Stone Killer" deals with a post-war atmosphere in compelling ways that enhance its overall narrative. This, in addition to simply being an action film with a Master's degree in kickass.

Twilight Time's limited edition batch of "The Stone Killer" is an excellent collector's item-a vibrant restoration both in its visuals and sound. The bonus features include an isolated music track of Roy Budd's excellent score, and a fascinating audio commentary from Paul Talbot, who has the best job in the world of "Bronson Biographer." Throw in the original theatrical trailer, and you've got a fine trio of bonus features to complement an already awesome film.

"The Stone Killer"
Twilight Time Blu-ray
$29.95
https://www.twilighttimemovies.com/stone-killer-the-blu-ray/