I have just re-watched this film from 1971 - in my view it is probably the best work Michael Caine has done. It has everything - a strong storyline - good acting - great score - unpretentious dialogue - and a real authentic feel. The ending is as it should be - as it had to be. The American version is an embarrassment and should never have been made. I am amazed that nobody has commented on this movie. I read somewhere that Ian Hendry did not get on with Michael Caine because Hendry thought the lead role should have gone to him - seriously? - was he ever anything more than a supporting actor?