"The Professionals" is a 1966 American Western film directed by Richard Brooks, featuring an ensemble cast that includes Burt Lancaster, Lee Marvin, Robert Ryan, Woody Strode, and Jack Palance. The film is based on Frank O'Rourke's 1964 novel "A Mule for the Marquesa" and is set during the final years of the Mexican Revolution. It tells the story of four mercenaries hired by a wealthy Texan rancher to rescue his kidnapped wife from a notorious bandit.
The plot unfolds as J.W. Grant (Ralph Bellamy), the rancher, recruits an expert team: Bill Dolworth (Burt Lancaster), an experienced soldier; Henry "Rico" Fardan (Lee Marvin), a weapons specialist; Jake Sharp (Woody Strode), an Apache scout; and Hans Ehrengard (Robert Ryan), a horse wrangler. As they journey into Mexico to locate Maria (Claudia Cardinale), they soon discover that she has not been kidnapped but has willingly joined Jesus Raza (Jack Palance), a former revolutionary turned bandit. This revelation complicates their mission and leads to moral dilemmas regarding loyalty and honor.
The film is noted for its action-packed sequences and strong performances, particularly from Lancaster and Marvin, who portray complex characters navigating the blurred lines between right and wrong. The cinematography by Conrad L. Hall captures the rugged beauty of the Mexican landscape, enhancing the film's adventurous spirit. Maurice Jarre's musical score complements the narrative, adding to the film's dramatic tension.
Upon its release, "The Professionals" received positive reviews and was praised for its engaging storyline and character development. It garnered three Academy Award nominations, including Best Cinematography, Best Director for Brooks, and Best Adapted Screenplay. Despite being overshadowed by other films of the era, it has since gained recognition as a classic Western that effectively combines action with deeper themes of betrayal and redemption.
Overall, "The Professionals" stands out as an entertaining entry in the Western genre, showcasing a talented cast and a well-crafted narrative that resonates with audiences through its exploration of complex human relationships against the backdrop of a tumultuous historical period.