 Frequently interpreted as a parable based on the rise of European fascism, the story and themes of "Face to Face" were based on Sollima's wartime experiences, and his personal beliefs on the role of environments and societies in the shaping of a person's character.A major success at the European box office, "Face to Face" has received praise from critics and scholars of the Spaghetti Western genre for its story and acting, although some criticism has been leveled at the execution of Fletcher's character arc.Sollima considered it to be one of the best and most personal of the films he directed.