Review: Giallo (2009)

When you hear the name Dario Argento, you immediately think of stylistic horror and intense thrillers that have left a mark on the genre. 'Giallo' (2009) is one such film that tries to capture the essence of Argento's signature style but doesn't entirely hit the mark as some of his earlier works. For collectors, though, it's a fascinating piece to consider, especially if you're a fan of Argento or the giallo genre.

Plot Summary

'Giallo' takes us to the streets of Turin, where a serial killer with a penchant for disfiguring his victims is on the loose. The story follows Inspector Enzo Avolfi, played by Adrien Brody, who is on a relentless pursuit to catch the killer. He teams up with Linda, played by Emmanuelle Seigner, whose sister has fallen victim to the killer's terrifying spree. The narrative unfolds as a gripping chase against time, with the inspector and Linda trying to piece together clues before the killer strikes again. It's a story that taps into the classic themes of suspense and mystery that Argento is known for.

Performances

Adrien Brody takes on the challenging role of Inspector Avolfi with a sense of brooding intensity. He brings a level of gravitas to the film, although it might feel like he's somewhat constrained by the script's limitations. Brody's commitment to the role is evident, but the film's uneven tone sometimes detracts from his performance. Emmanuelle Seigner, as Linda, delivers a solid performance, capturing the desperation and determination of a woman on a mission to save her sister. The supporting cast adds layers to the story, though some characters feel underdeveloped, which affects the overall impact of the performances.

Direction and Craft

Directed by Dario Argento, 'Giallo' tries to embody the essence of the Italian giallo films that he helped popularize. The film showcases Argento's flair for creating moody atmospheres with its use of color and lighting. However, the movie struggles with pacing issues and a script that doesn’t quite hold up to the director's past successes. The cinematography is a mixed bag, with certain scenes effectively capturing the eerie ambiance, while others appear a bit rushed and lack the visual elegance one might expect from Argento.

The film's music, composed by Marco Werba, attempts to enhance the tension and suspense but occasionally feels out of sync with the on-screen action. One of the film’s notable aspects is its attempt to blend traditional giallo elements with a more modern approach, which, while ambitious, doesn’t always come together seamlessly.

Collector's Verdict

For a collector, 'Giallo' presents an intriguing yet divisive addition. It's certainly not Argento's best work, but it holds a unique place in his filmography as an attempt to revisit the genre he knows so well. The best format to own 'Giallo' is on Blu-ray. This format offers the superior picture and sound quality necessary to appreciate the film's visual and auditory elements, despite its flaws. In terms of rarity, 'Giallo' is uncommon, making it a worthwhile pursuit for collectors who appreciate the nuances of Argento's diverse body of work.

While it may not be a standout thriller, 'Giallo' has its niche appeal, especially for fans of the director. If you're building a collection that explores different styles within the thriller genre, or if you're an Argento completist, this film might be worth adding to your collection.

Overall, 'Giallo' is a film that sparks discussion and debate among fans and collectors alike. It's a piece of Argento's journey as a filmmaker that offers a glimpse into his evolving style, albeit with mixed results.

Star Rating

2.5 out of 5