An excellent groundbreaking giallo from the great Mario Bava
Sweet American tourist and murder mystery novel fan Nora Davis (a wonderfully charming and vibrant performance by the lovely Letica Roman) witnesses a serial killer's latest slaying in a park in Rome, Italy. She convinces the dashing Dr. Marcello Bassi (a very likable turn by John Saxon) to help her investigate the incident and subsequently discovers that it's tied in with the "Alphabet Murders." Of course, Nora soon finds herself in considerable jeopardy. Ably directed with customary stylish aplomb by Mario Bava (who also co-write the sharp and witty script), with an absorbing twist-ridden plot, an alternately groovy and shuddery score by Roberto Nicolosi, a surprisingly light and bouncy tone, beautifully crisp black and white cinematography by Bava himself, a snappy pace, a terrific funky lounge garage rock theme song, engaging characters, bang-up acting from a personable cast, a winning sense of playful humor, and a harrowing conclusion, this film really hits all the right bases to rate as a total treat. Roman and Saxon make for an extremely appealing and attractive lead couple; they receive fine support from Valentina Cortese as the friendly Laura Craven-Torrani and Dante Di Paola as helpful reporter Andrea Landini. A real delight.score 9/10
Woodyanders 10 April 2008
Reprint: https://www.imdb.com/review/rw1855050/35596
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