Sabata (1969) **** [Italian Western Quadruple Feature Pt. 4]

Gianfranco Parolini's Sabata (1969), the first in a trilogy by the director, is a playful, ridiculous, self-parodizing Italian Western like no other. Like the best parodies that simultaneously work as strong examples of the genre, this one comes from a place of love—the cinematography, performances and score are all top-notch. Lee Van Cleef's invincible titular character grins mischievously throughout.