Set in the lush of rural Italy there is something altogether different with the locale of 'Don't Torture a Duckling' in comparison to Fulci's later works. This does not go amiss and is perhaps one of the strengthening factors of this (satisfactory) film.
While it is true that many of the characters are developed throughout the plot, this is not altogether convincing yet should be noted with some merit. Several reviewers have taken the opportunity to compare this film to, say, 'Zombie Flesh Eaters' - the latter usually coming under fire for it's (alleged) lack of characterisation. Let's remember though that 'Zombie', in essence, is an exploitation film and should be noted more for being a timely piece rich in visceral shock-value. Characterisation and plot development are not strictly paramount (- although some would disagree).
This is not to say that 'Duckling' is in any way a 'bad' film but it is certainly lacking something and it becomes a difficult task to put a finger on what that is. There is a degree of realism to the film itself and it's portrayal of violence and emotions. Sure, there are no exploding zombie heads or pierced eyeballs but that does not mean to say that 'Duckling' doesn't fail to shock in places. The film may look dated but in regards to it's subject matter this film is still as relevant today as it was when released, maybe more so. Particularly here in the UK, any film dealing with the death of young children, religion (it is debatable as to whether or not the Catholic Church is being swiped at here), sex and superstition is going to create strong resonances.
Having heard nothing but good about this film I do feel rather uneasy by not rating it nearly as high as I thought I would. The giallo characteristics of the film are a catalyst and the musical score is very apt and helps to create a chilling ambience. The camera-work is impressive and noteworthy. It just seems that some leads and ideas never really seem to anywhere in particular...take the woman who seems to flirt with literally everyone; this may be justified by fails to rouse much interest at all. Certain parts, take the end montage of flash-backs, for example, seem emphatically 'corny' and unnecessary indeed. It may be clear that Fulci can create a film that isn't dependent on gore and can move the viewer but this isn't as ground-breaking as some have made out.
To conclude 'Don't Torture a Duckling' is an overrated, underrated film but do keep an open mind. It seems like 'Duckling' is going to ever-remain as the 'tender' or 'intelligent' film that Fulci directed merely because it has little bloodshed.
While it is true that many of the characters are developed throughout the plot, this is not altogether convincing yet should be noted with some merit. Several reviewers have taken the opportunity to compare this film to, say, 'Zombie Flesh Eaters' - the latter usually coming under fire for it's (alleged) lack of characterisation. Let's remember though that 'Zombie', in essence, is an exploitation film and should be noted more for being a timely piece rich in visceral shock-value. Characterisation and plot development are not strictly paramount (- although some would disagree).
This is not to say that 'Duckling' is in any way a 'bad' film but it is certainly lacking something and it becomes a difficult task to put a finger on what that is. There is a degree of realism to the film itself and it's portrayal of violence and emotions. Sure, there are no exploding zombie heads or pierced eyeballs but that does not mean to say that 'Duckling' doesn't fail to shock in places. The film may look dated but in regards to it's subject matter this film is still as relevant today as it was when released, maybe more so. Particularly here in the UK, any film dealing with the death of young children, religion (it is debatable as to whether or not the Catholic Church is being swiped at here), sex and superstition is going to create strong resonances.
Having heard nothing but good about this film I do feel rather uneasy by not rating it nearly as high as I thought I would. The giallo characteristics of the film are a catalyst and the musical score is very apt and helps to create a chilling ambience. The camera-work is impressive and noteworthy. It just seems that some leads and ideas never really seem to anywhere in particular...take the woman who seems to flirt with literally everyone; this may be justified by fails to rouse much interest at all. Certain parts, take the end montage of flash-backs, for example, seem emphatically 'corny' and unnecessary indeed. It may be clear that Fulci can create a film that isn't dependent on gore and can move the viewer but this isn't as ground-breaking as some have made out.
To conclude 'Don't Torture a Duckling' is an overrated, underrated film but do keep an open mind. It seems like 'Duckling' is going to ever-remain as the 'tender' or 'intelligent' film that Fulci directed merely because it has little bloodshed.