Fusil chargé

Having completed his studies in England, Don César returned to his family's farm in Sardinia. He finds that the local peasants are living in terror of a cattle rustler, Marras, and his accomplices. Don César begins by lodging a complaint against Marras. But this was only the beginning of his plan: to catch the thieves in the act, he installed an alarm system around his property. One night, the beam of a searchlight sweeps across the property and the bandits must flee as quickly as possible. In revenge, Marras kidnaps the daughter of César's foreman. But she cleverly deceives her guardian and escapes. Marras sets off in search of Maria. Meanwhile, César and his foreman scour the region for her. It all ends in violence and bloodshed. Marras and the foreman are shot dead. César and the girl are unharmed.

Directed by Carlo Lombardini, Fusil chargé leans on a strong ensemble — Jean Goeders, Raymond Meunier, Paul Bisciglia — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 1972.