Massacre in Rome (Retro Film)

“AN INSANELY COMMITTED FILM ABOUT THE WAR” Aftonbladet

“CAPTIVATING AND WELL-DIRECTED” Variety

March 1944. During the Nazi military parade in Rome, the resistance movement attacks. The result is devastating. 33 German soldiers lose their lives. When Hitler is informed, he demands immediate retaliation. For every German soldier, ten Italians are to be executed. Father Antonelli (Marcello Mastroianni) begins a feverish struggle to try to stop the act. He appeals to both the Pope and Colonel Koppler (Richard Burton), who is torn between his conscience and the duty to follow orders. Meanwhile, the inhabitants of Rome hold their breath in fear. Who will be chosen to face the death squad?

MASSACRE IN ROME is based on Robert Katz's true-life book Death in Rome. The film caused a huge controversy because it accused Pope Pius XII and the Vatican of not trying to stop the massacre. Oscar-winning producer Carlo Ponti (Doctor Zhivago) and director George P. Cosmatos (Rambo: First Blood II, Tombstone) were put on trial – and convicted! The sentence was six months' probation (a sentence that was later overturned).