The Seven-Ups: An underappreciated classic starring Roy Scheider
Roy Scheider has never been cooler - or hotter - than as Detective Buddy Manucci, in The Seven-Ups (1973).
That long brown belted leather jacket, his effortless delivery and driving in the rightly lauded car chase means he gives even the likes of Steve McQueen in Bullitt a real run for his money.
The film, a spiritual sequel of sorts to The French Connection (1971), which saw Scheider receive a Best Supporting Actor Oscar nomination, oozes rising tension from the off, even without nothing much happening but it really is that engrossing.
Directed by Philip D'Antoni, The Seven-Ups is a gripping crime thriller that showcases the talents of Roy Scheider, known for his role as Chief Brody in the iconic JAWS. Released in 1973, this film stands as a spiritual cousin to The French Connection, sharing not only the producer Philip D'Antoni – here in his only directing effort - but also the raw, gritty portrayal of a cold and wintery New York City crime world.
At the centre of The Seven-Ups is Roy Scheider's portrayal of Detective Buddy Manucci, a tough and determined cop leading a special task force investigating a string of brutal crimes. Scheider brings a nuanced performance to the character, capturing the complexity of a man torn between loyalty to his team and the pursuit of justice.
The film inherits the raw and unfiltered depiction of urban crime seen in The French Connection. The narrative is tightly woven, showcasing the stark realities of law enforcement's battle against crime syndicates. Much like its predecessor, The Seven-Ups doesn't shy away from showcasing the darker sides of the city, painting a vivid picture of a world where corruption and violence intertwine.
One of the standout sequences in The Seven-Ups is its exhilarating 10-minute car chase scene, reminiscent of the iconic pursuit in The French Connection. The chase is expertly crafted, with pulse-pounding tension and adrenaline-fueled action that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
Philip D'Antoni, who had a knack for orchestrating gripping car chases in the likes of Bullitt and Connection, delivers another unforgettable sequence, solidifying his reputation as a master of vehicular action scenes.
Roy Scheider's portrayal of Detective Manucci anchors the film, offering a compelling and authentic performance that resonates throughout. His chemistry with the rest of the cast, adds depth to the film's ensemble dynamic, enhancing the storytelling experience.
While The Seven-Ups pays homage to The French Connection in its themes and style, it stands on its own as a gripping crime thriller. And for me, it is an even better film than the William Friedkin directed classic, with Scheider a commanding, charismatic and mesmerising lead.
The film successfully weaves together elements of action, drama, and suspense, creating a film that remains relevant and captivating 50 years after its initial release.
It even manages to do for car washes what JAWS did for swimming in the sea. And with Klute, The French Connection, The Seven-Ups, JAWS, Marathon Man, Sorcerer, JAWS 2 and Last Embrace, Roy Scheider is pretty much top dog when it comes to delivering cinematic thrills in the 1970s.
Words by Dean Newman
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