Fernando Di Leo was an influential Italian film director, screenwriter, and producer, known for his work in the genre of crime films during the 1970s. Born on May 3, 1932, in Bari, Italy, he became a prominent figure in the Italian film industry, particularly for his contributions to the poliziotteschi genre, which focused on police and crime stories. Di Leo's films often featured gritty narratives and complex characters, reflecting the social issues of the time. Some of his notable works include Milano calibro 9 and La mala ordina, which have gained a cult following. He passed away on December 1, 2003, leaving a lasting legacy in cinema.