Handsome Jean Sorel plays Gregory Moore, an American reporter in Prague. At the beginning of the film, his supposedly dead body is discovered in a park. However, the word "supposedly" must be used because Gregory's mind is still active, yet he cannot move a muscle. While attempting in vain to try to indicate to observers that he's not really dead, his mind flashes back to his recent past. He'd become obsessed when his smoking hot young girlfriend, Mira (Barbara Bach) had disappeared, and done quite a bit of sleuthing of his own.
This unusual structure lends a nice hook to this effort from writer / director Aldo Lado. One can hardly fail to notice how subtle and deliberately paced it is. It's also not punctuated by the typical spate of elaborate and bloody killings. Therefore, it will not appeal to all devotees of the Giallo genre. But patient viewers will find it to be a reasonably absorbing story, with Lado making very fine use out of many striking locations. One valuable component is an excellent soundtrack by the always reliable Ennio Morricone. There is a certain aspect of sleaziness to Lado's scenario, considering the ultimate revelation that is in store for Gregory. It involves the sight of many, shall we say, older people doffing their clothes for the camera.
Sorel is quite engaging in the central role. Ingrid Thulin (who is actually top billed) is fine in the supporting role of his associate Jessica. Ms. Bach looks positively luscious in her brief time on screen.
Recommended viewing for those new to this genre.
Seven out of 10.
This unusual structure lends a nice hook to this effort from writer / director Aldo Lado. One can hardly fail to notice how subtle and deliberately paced it is. It's also not punctuated by the typical spate of elaborate and bloody killings. Therefore, it will not appeal to all devotees of the Giallo genre. But patient viewers will find it to be a reasonably absorbing story, with Lado making very fine use out of many striking locations. One valuable component is an excellent soundtrack by the always reliable Ennio Morricone. There is a certain aspect of sleaziness to Lado's scenario, considering the ultimate revelation that is in store for Gregory. It involves the sight of many, shall we say, older people doffing their clothes for the camera.
Sorel is quite engaging in the central role. Ingrid Thulin (who is actually top billed) is fine in the supporting role of his associate Jessica. Ms. Bach looks positively luscious in her brief time on screen.
Recommended viewing for those new to this genre.
Seven out of 10.