Independent distributors Raro Video U.S. have dated and detailed their upcoming Blu-ray release of Italian director Francesco Rosi's Uomini contro a.k.a Many Wars Ago (1970), starring Mark Frechette, Alain Cuny, Gian Maria Volonté, and Giampiero Albertini. Street date is October 16th.
In Northern Italy, WWI has turned into a bloody stalemate. Bogged down in their trenches on a barren highland, the men of an Italian infantry division have been given one objective: retake a commanding height from the enemy. Unfortunately, the tactical ingenuity of general Leone (Cuny), the unpopular division commander, consists of supplementing frontal attacks against machine-guns with medieval fighting schemes. His dispirited troops must be prodded with ever harsher measures into storming the Austrian positions. As casualties mount, indignation spreads amongst the rank and file. Disturbed by the decisions of his superiors, lieutenant Sassu (Frechette) is progressively led to question the purpose of the war and to reconsider where his real duties lie.
Special Features:
Digitally restored in collaboration with the National Cinematheque and The Turin National Museum under the supervision of director Francesco Rosi
Before and after restoration demonstration
Interview with director Francesco Rosi
New and improved subtitle translation
Fully illustrated booklet on the genesis and production of Many Wars Ago
Note: Director Francesco Rosi's The Moment of Truth and Carmen are currently available on Blu-ray via the Criterion Collection and Olive Films. See our reviews here and here. The Criterion Collection also has available on DVD the Italian director's Salvatore Giuliano and Hands Over the City.
