Review of The Belle Starr Story (Mio corpo
per un poker, Il)
This film is a rare jewel that shouldn’t be missed. One of the most unique
qualities about it is that unlike many Westerns, this film features a female
lead.
The story begins over a game of poker between Belle and a bandit by the name of
Larry Blackie. Bell is portrayed by Elsa Martinelli while Larry Blackie is
portrayed by George Eastman. After Blackie wins all of Belle’s money he offers
her a chance to win back her money with one more game. Since she has lost all of
her money the only thing she has left to wager is her body. After throwing the
game and tossing all of her best cards she is left at the mercy of Blackie. This
leads to a somewhat incongruous relationship between the two.
One of the most interesting aspects of this film is the fact that is consists of
two parts. One part reveals aspects of Belle’s past through flashbacks while the
other shows how the two attempt to rob a diamond transportation. The first part
of the film, revealing the flashbacks is particularly engaging, revealing how
Belle Starr came to be known as a bandit queen capable of out smoking, out
riding , out shooting and usually out gambling any man who comes across her path
in the Old West. The second half is action packed; keeping you riveted to the
edge of your seat. When their robbery plan goes awry Belle must rescue Blackie.