Watch The Black Windmill

The Black Windmill is a 1974 thriller film directed by Don Siegel and starring Michael Caine, Donald Pleasence, and Delphine Seyrig. The film is based on the novel Seven Days to a Killing by Clive Egleton and follows a British intelligence agent named Major John Tarrant as he tries to rescue his kidnapped son. The film opens with Tarrant (Caine) arriving at his son David's (John Vernon) school to pick him up for a weekend visit. When Tarrant arrives at David's room, he finds that David has been kidnapped and a ransom note demands that Tarrant steal a highly confidential file from his job at British Intelligence in exchange for his son's release.

Tarrant initially refuses to comply with the kidnappers' demands, but he soon realizes that he has no other choice if he wants to save his son's life. Tarrant sets out to steal the file, but he soon learns that he is not the only one after it. A ruthless group of international criminals, led by a mysterious and beautiful woman named Ceil (Seyrig), are also after the file, and they will stop at nothing to get it.

As Tarrant navigates the dangerous world of espionage and crime, he discovers that the kidnapping of his son is just one small part of a much larger conspiracy. He must use all of his intelligence and cunning to outwit his enemies and save his son before time runs out.

The Black Windmill is a tense and gripping thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Michael Caine delivers a strong performance as the troubled and determined Tarrant, while Donald Pleasence is excellent as the untrustworthy and duplicitous head of British Intelligence. Delphine Seyrig's Ceil is a fascinating character, and her icy demeanor and seductive charm create a palpable tension throughout the film.

The film's plot is complex and full of twists and turns, but it is never confusing or convoluted. Don Siegel's direction is confident and assured, and he creates a sense of urgency and danger that is palpable from the opening scenes. The film's action sequences are well-staged and exciting, and the tension is ratcheted up to a fever pitch in the film's climactic final act.

Overall, The Black Windmill is a gripping and suspenseful thriller that will appeal to fans of espionage and crime films. With its strong performances, intricate plot, and thrilling action, it is a must-see for fans of the genre.