Reviewing films slightly off the beaten path
The Thin Man introduced the world to married sleuths Nick and Nora Charles. Based on the novel by Dashiell Hammett, the film is a pitch perfect blend of comedy and mystery that still holds up wonderfully. Warner Archive have given the film a Blu-ray release.
Shock Treatment is at once an effective thriller and a clever social commentary. Alain Delon and Annie Girardot are both great in their roles. The film benefits from lush cinematography by Jacques Robin. Severin Films have released the film on Blu-ray.
Luigi Bazzoni’s film The Fifth Cord ranks as one of the greatest Giallo films ever made. Franco Nero is as cool as they come. The Arrow Video Blu-ray is essential viewing.
The Private Life of Sherlock Holmes is a cleverly written and well directed film from the great Billy Wilder. It ranks as one of the best Sherlock Holmes films. Kino Lorber brought the film to Blu-ray in 2014.
In 2018, Luca Guadagnino remade the classic Dario Argento film Suspiria. The resulting film can’t compete with the brilliance of the original, but there is a unique vision presented that will stir debates over the film’s merit. The music by Thom Yorke is exceptional.
House on Haunted Hill is not so much a remake as a reimagining of the William Castle classic. if you can dissociate it from the original, it is an enjoyable popcorn movie. Shout! Factory have given the film a Collector’s Edition release.
Featuring an introduction from film scholar and author Troy Howarth –
Deep Red is arguably the best giallo film that Dario Argento ever made. Cleverly blending in supernatural and psychological elements, it ranks as one of the best gialli ever made. Arrow Video have given the film a tremendous release that should be in every film lover’s library.
Featuring an introduction from film scholar and author Troy Howarth!
The Cat o’ Nine Tails was Argento’s hastily made follow up to The Bird with the Crystal Plumage. While the film does not have a script as tight as that film, Argento’s creativity behind the camera shines through. Arrow Video gave the film a solid release in 2018.
Featuring an introduction from film scholar and author Troy Howarth!
The Bird with the Crystal Plumage changed the Italian thriller genre for forever. Spawning a million imitations, Argento’s stylized film remains one of the best giallo films ever made.
