Suspiria (1977) Review

Argento's 'Suspiria' is one of those films that you either instantly fall in love with or find utterly baffling. Released in 1977, this Italian horror film has carved out a niche for itself as a touchstone in the genre, known for its surreal visuals and a soundtrack that doesn't just accompany the film, but nearly becomes a character in its own right. To this day, 'Suspiria' remains a staple in horror film discussions, often cited for its unique style and unrelenting atmosphere.

Plot Summary

'Suspiria' follows Suzy Bannion, a young American ballet dancer, as she travels to a prestigious dance academy in Germany. Upon arrival, she quickly realizes that the school harbors dark secrets. Strange happenings and a series of increasingly violent occurrences set Suzy on a path to uncover the truth about the academy. The plot, while seemingly straightforward, unfolds in a dream-like manner, keeping viewers engaged and a bit off-kilter throughout its runtime.

Performances

When discussing performances in 'Suspiria', it's essential to understand that the acting is intentionally stylized. Jessica Harper, who plays Suzy, delivers a performance that balances innocence and determination, capturing the audience's sympathy as her character navigates the bizarre world of the dance academy. Harper's wide-eyed portrayal is perfect for the film's surreal tone.

The supporting cast, including Stefania Casini and Alida Valli, contribute to the film's unsettling atmosphere. Valli, in particular, stands out with her icy portrayal of the school's headmistress, Miss Tanner. Each character seems to live on the edge of reality, enhancing the film's otherworldly feel. It's important to view these performances through the lens of Argento's vision, where the narrative often takes a backseat to the mood and visual experience.

Direction and Craft

Dario Argento's direction in 'Suspiria' is nothing short of visionary. Known for his stylistic approach, Argento saturates the film with vibrant colors and elaborate set designs that are as much a part of the storytelling as the script itself. The use of color in 'Suspiria' is deliberate and striking, with reds, blues, and greens painting the screen to evoke emotion and tension.

Then there's the score by Goblin, a progressive rock band that collaborated closely with Argento. Their music is pulsating and eerie, perfectly complementing the film's visual intensity. The score is so iconic that it's often remembered as vividly as the film itself, underscoring key moments with a memorable, almost hypnotic rhythm.

Cinematographer Luciano Tovoli deserves special mention for his work. His use of Technicolor imbues the film with a distinct visual identity, almost like a fever dream that enhances the narrative's mystical elements. Argento's attention to detail in crafting the film's look and sound is a significant reason why 'Suspiria' stands out in the horror genre.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, 'Suspiria' is a gem that deserves a special place on your shelf. The best format to own would be a high-quality Blu-ray. The reason for this is simple: Argento’s use of color and Goblin’s score benefit immensely from the sharpness and clarity that Blu-ray offers. It brings out the vibrancy of the visuals and the depth of the audio, allowing you to experience the film as it was meant to be seen and heard.

In terms of rarity, 'Suspiria' is considered rare, especially original releases and special editions that have become highly sought after. The 4K restoration releases, where available, are also popular among collectors for bringing out even more detail in the picture. If you can find a limited edition with extras like director's commentary or behind-the-scenes features, it's well worth the investment.

'Suspiria' is a must-own for horror aficionados and film collectors alike. Its influence on the genre and its unique approach to storytelling and aesthetic make it more than just a film—it's an experience. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a newcomer to horror, adding this piece to your collection is a decision you won't regret.

Overall, 'Suspiria' continues to mesmerize with its unique style and eerie storytelling. It’s one of those films that, once seen, isn’t easily forgotten. Whether you’re revisiting it or experiencing it for the first time, it offers something new with each viewing.