This article delves into the intriguing story behind the 1975 Italian western “A Genius, Two Partners, and a Dupe,” a film conceived by Sergio Leone but ultimately disowned by him. This often-overlooked entry in the Spaghetti Western genre offers a unique blend of comedy, cynicism, and Leone’s signature visual style, despite its troubled production.
The Genesis of a Disowned Masterpiece
Sergio Leone, the visionary director behind iconic Westerns like “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly,” envisioned “A Genius, Two Partners, and a Dupe” as a darkly comedic Western inspired by Bertrand Blier’s controversial French film “Les Valseuses.” Leone aimed to deconstruct the romanticized image of the Wild West, injecting a dose of bitter realism and black humor. He not only developed the story but also produced and directed the pre-credits sequence. However, dissatisfied with the final product, Leone removed his name from the credits, marking his final involvement in the Western genre.
A Tale of Greed, Betrayal, and Unexpected Consequences
The film follows the exploits of adventurer Joe Thanks, his partner Locomotive Bill, and their shared girlfriend Lucy as they plot to steal $300,000 from a corrupt cavalry officer named Cabot. Their scheme spirals into a series of double-crosses and betrayals, echoing the cynical tone of the film that inspired it. Amidst the chaos, a colonel investigating the theft is murdered, leading Locomotive Bill to impersonate him, further complicating the already convoluted plot. Cabot’s intention to use the stolen money to purchase Native American land rumored to contain gold adds another layer of complexity to the narrative. Ultimately, the intricate web of deception leaves nearly everyone empty-handed, except, ironically, the Native Americans.
Leone’s Vision Lost in Translation?
Leone entrusted the direction to Damiano Damiani, a filmmaker known for his dramatic work but lacking experience in comedy. Casting Terence Hill, famous for his comedic roles in family-friendly films, further compromised Leone’s vision for a darker, more subversive Western. The resulting film, while retaining glimpses of Leone’s original concept, leaned towards lighter fare, sacrificing much of the intended cynicism and raunchier humor.
A Glimpse of Brilliance Amidst the Chaos
Despite its deviations from Leone’s original vision, “A Genius, Two Partners, and a Dupe” offers moments of genuine brilliance. Leone’s pre-credits sequence showcases his masterful visual storytelling. The film also features memorable performances, particularly from Robert Charlebois as the boisterous half-breed and Patrick McGoohan as the coolly racist Major Cabot. Ennio Morricone’s score, incorporating Beethoven’s “Für Elise,” adds another layer of unexpected beauty to the film. Even Terence Hill’s familiar comedic routines and Klaus Kinski’s brief but impactful cameo contribute to the film’s unique charm. The stagecoach sequence near the film’s climax stands out as a highlight, showcasing Leone’s influence on the action and pacing.
A Flawed Yet Entertaining Western Oddity
“A Genius, Two Partners, and a Dupe,” while undeniably flawed, remains an entertaining and intriguing entry in the Spaghetti Western genre. The film’s production challenges, including the theft of negatives and the resulting use of outtakes, contribute to its uneven visual quality. However, the film’s blend of comedy, action, and cynical undertones, coupled with strong performances and Morricone’s memorable score, make it a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre and those curious about Leone’s lesser-known work. It serves as a fascinating “what if” scenario, hinting at the darker, more biting Western Leone originally envisioned.
