Review: What Have You Done to Solange? (1972)

For aficionados of the giallo genre, "What Have You Done to Solange?" from 1972 stands out as a quintessential piece of Italian thriller cinema. Directed by Massimo Dallamano, this film weaves a mysterious and engaging narrative that captures the essence of intrigue and suspense typical of giallo films. It is a movie that balances its storyline with atmospheric tension, making it a fascinating watch for collectors and fans alike.

Plot Summary

Without giving too much away, the plot of "What Have You Done to Solange?" revolves around a series of gruesome murders at a girls' school in London. The story follows a teacher, Enrico Rosseni, who becomes embroiled in the investigation after witnessing a murder while in a compromising situation with one of his students. As the mystery unfolds, Rosseni finds himself diving deeper into the dark secrets lurking beneath the surface of the school. The film cleverly keeps viewers guessing, with each twist adding layers to the narrative without revealing too much too soon.

Performances

The performances in "What Have You Done to Solange?" are pivotal in bringing the story to life. Fabio Testi, as Enrico Rosseni, delivers a nuanced performance, capturing the complexity of a man caught between his personal indiscretions and a desperate bid to clear his name. Testi's portrayal is both engaging and credible, making the audience empathize with his character's plight.

Karin Baal plays the role of Herta, Rosseni's wife, and she provides a strong counterbalance to Testi’s character. Her performance adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the personal stakes involved in the unfolding drama. Supporting characters, including the students and faculty of the school, are portrayed with conviction, adding to the film's overall atmosphere of suspense and uncertainty.

Direction and Craft

Massimo Dallamano’s direction is a significant contributor to the film’s success. His ability to maintain tension and suspense throughout the narrative is admirable. Dallamano uses a combination of visual storytelling and pacing to create an engaging atmosphere that keeps viewers on edge. The film's cinematography, handled by Aristide Massaccesi, is another standout feature. The use of light and shadow, along with the framing of scenes, enhances the mysterious and unsettling mood of the film.

The soundtrack, composed by Ennio Morricone, is memorable and serves as the perfect backdrop to the chilling narrative. Morricone's score is both subtle and powerful, enhancing the emotional impact of key scenes without overshadowing the action on screen. This combination of direction, cinematography, and music makes "What Have You Done to Solange?" a visually and audibly strong experience.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, "What Have You Done to Solange?" is a must-have addition to any giallo collection. The film offers a quintessential experience of the genre, filled with suspense, intrigue, and a unique narrative style. The Blu-ray format is the best choice for owning this film, providing excellent picture and sound quality that does justice to the film's artistry. Its rarity is rated as uncommon, making it a valuable find for those dedicated to collecting films from this era.

In conclusion, this film is a significant piece of 1970s giallo cinema, offering strong performances and a engaging storyline. Whether you are a seasoned collector or new to the genre, "What Have You Done to Solange?" deserves a place on your shelf.