|
(1969, aka SCREAMS IN THE NIGHT, upgraded 4/15/22) Joachim Fuchsberger, Marianne Koch, Luciano Pigozzi, Helga Anders, Claudio Camaso, Dominique Boschero, Marianne Leibl, directed by Antonio Margheriti. Though this film is sometimes listed as a crime film, there’s no doubt that its presentation and style make it a horror film. And what a great Euro-horror film it is! Five people travel by car through a howling storm. After getting stuck, they make their way on foot through the rain to a nearby forgotten, shunned inn. It is occupied by a strange man and his wizened, clairvoyant mother. A séance ensues that shows in flashback the travelers’ involvement in sexual depredations, crime, and murder. The clairvoyant tells them that the murdered man will soon return to exact his revenge. Then, in an amazing climax, the proceedings come to a catastrophic ending—all to the sound of Pigozzi’s maniacal laughter. Pigozzi (billed as Alan Collins) is superb as the sinister innkeeper who knows far more about his guests than he should. Known as the “Peter Lorre” of Euro-horror films, this is possibly his most memorable role. Fuchsberger is also excellent in a bad guy/victim role. But it is Koch who nearly steals the show as Fuchsberger’s wanton wife. Director Margheriti develops a foreboding sense of impending doom. Rated R for nudity and sexual scenes. Italian with English subtitles. Nice color, from 35mm.
|
|
