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Sword of Gideon (1986)
Above Average TVM
This film has been released in various lengths. The video release (Cineplex Odeon) in Canada has a length of 150 minutes. The DVD release has a length of 172 minutes and is somewhat confusing. The disk itself shows a Platinum release but the DVD content shows no Platinum logo or trademark whatsoever. The DVD cover shows no company at all. The print quality is fairly good - about par for an Eighties TV production.The film was originally produced for television (HBO in the U.S. and CTV Network in Canada).
"Sword" has the same source material as Spielberg's "Munich" and this is reflected in a number of similarities between the two films.
At any rate, "Gideon" can stand on its own merits. It is an absorbing film detailing the Israeli response to the slaughter of their athletes at the Munich Olympics.The acting is effective especially Rod Steiger as their Israeli boss and Collen Dewhurst as Golda Meir.
Considering the limited budget (compared to "Munich") this is a first rate adaptation of Jonas' book.
Guns of Diablo (1964)
Repackaged TV series
During the Sixties MGM packaged episodes of TV series as feature movies for distribution in Europe. "Guns Of Diablo" represents two episodes of the series "The Travels Of Jamie McPheeters". Some comments note the daring love scene (for TV at the time). Actually sometimes MGM would add footage not in the original episode to make the feature more adult for European audiences. This was the case for "Guns Of Diablo".
This feature has been released on both video and DVD on budget labels. The print quality is fairly good under these circumstances.
When you consider its origins, "Guns" comes off as a reasonably entertaining western. It certainly showcases Bronson's talent and on screen charisma. For an example of how not to turn TV episodes into a feature check out "The Meanest Men In The West" also starring Bronson. It consists of two episodes of "The Virginian" with Bronson and Lee Marvin as brothers who do not share any scenes together but with editing appear to.