Review: City of the Living Dead (1980)

If you’re a fan of Italian horror films, you’ve likely stumbled across the works of Lucio Fulci. Known for his unique blend of gore and atmosphere, Fulci’s films have carved out a special niche for themselves among horror enthusiasts. 'City of the Living Dead', released in 1980, is no exception. Often overshadowed by Fulci's other works like 'The Beyond' or 'Zombie', this film still holds its own as a surreal and eerie journey into the supernatural. With its unsettling imagery and memorable score, it’s a film that deserves a spot in any serious horror collection.

Plot Summary

'City of the Living Dead' kicks off with a chilling premise: the suicide of a priest in the small town of Dunwich opens a gateway to hell. As this event unfolds, strange occurrences begin to plague the town. The dead start to rise, and a sense of doom looms over the community. Meanwhile, a journalist and a psychic, who have foreseen the impending apocalypse, attempt to close the gateway before it’s too late. Their journey takes them through the fog-laden streets and decaying buildings, encountering nightmarish visions that blur the lines between reality and the supernatural. The film is a rollercoaster of tension and shock, leaving viewers on edge with its unpredictable twists.

Performances

The film features a cast of seasoned actors familiar to fans of Italian horror. Christopher George plays Peter Bell, the determined journalist whose quest for truth propels the story. His performance anchors the film, providing a grounded perspective amidst the chaos. Catriona MacColl, playing the psychic Mary Woodhouse, delivers a strong performance filled with vulnerability and strength, capturing the audience's empathy as she confronts the horrors unleashed by the priest’s suicide.

The supporting cast also deserves mention. Carlo De Mejo, Antonella Interlenghi, and Giovanni Lombardo Radice each bring a distinct energy to their roles, contributing to the film's unsettling atmosphere. While sometimes the characters' motivations might feel a bit thin, the actors' commitment to the material compensates for any narrative shortcomings.

Direction and Craft

Lucio Fulci's direction is the true star of 'City of the Living Dead'. His ability to craft a nightmarish atmosphere is on full display, using fog, lighting, and sound to create a world that feels both real and otherworldly. Fulci’s penchant for gore is evident, but it’s the surreal and sometimes dream-like sequences that elevate the film beyond typical horror fare. The infamous drill scene and the gut-wrenching moments of gore are executed with a level of artistry that’s unsettling yet engaging.

The film’s score, composed by Fabio Frizzi, complements Fulci’s visuals perfectly. The music is memorable and ethereal, enhancing the film's mood and providing an undercurrent of dread that lingers long after the credits roll. Coupled with Sergio Salvati's cinematography, which expertly captures the gloomy and claustrophobic feel of Dunwich, the film emerges as a sensory experience that engages viewers on multiple levels.

Collector's Verdict

'City of the Living Dead' is a must-have for any horror collector, especially those with a penchant for Italian genre films. The Blu-ray edition is the best format to own, offering a restored version that does justice to Fulci’s vision with crisp visuals and improved audio quality. While it may not be as rare as some of Fulci's other works, it still holds significant value due to its unique place in horror history and the quality of its restoration.

For horror aficionados and Fulci fans, this is an essential piece. The Blu-ray edition offers the best viewing experience with its restored visuals and audio. The film might not be for everyone, especially those who prefer their horror with a more straightforward narrative, but for those willing to embrace its quirks, it's a rewarding experience.

Owning 'City of the Living Dead' is not just about the film itself; it’s about appreciating the artistry and the bold, sometimes bizarre choices that define Italian horror cinema. As a collector, it's always thrilling to have a piece that sparks conversation and invites repeated viewings, and this film certainly fits that bill.

In conclusion, 'City of the Living Dead' may not be Lucio Fulci’s most polished work, but it remains an intriguing and unsettling entry in his filmography. With its eerie atmosphere, memorable set pieces, and memorable score, it’s a film that continues to resonate with audiences and collectors alike.

Overall, I’d give 'City of the Living Dead' a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars. While it has its flaws, the film's unique style and Fulci’s bold direction make it a worthy addition to any horror collection.