'Oasis of Fear' also known as 'An Ideal Place to Kill' or 'Dirty Pictures' is an interesting psychological Giallo thriller that focuses more on the mystery thriller aspects of the genre with very little on screen violence, but more than makes up for it with plenty of suspense, plot twists and stylish visuals.
The plot follows a young couple Dick Butler (Ray Lovelock) and Ingrid Sjoman (Ornella Muti) who travel to Italy to sell pornographic pictures and soon end up on the run from the law. After being mistaken for a couple of bank robbers they end up at a nearby mansion owned by Barbara Slater (Irene Papas) who might have sinister intentions of her own.
The movie's set up is entertaining for the first half, but the pacing does sag a little during the middle, thankfully things pick up during the final act when the plot takes a few unexpected turns, especially during the very downbeat climax which makes everything a satisfying viewing experience. The direction by Umberto Lenzi is solid with enough effective sequences, some erotic sleaze and strong production values that makes this pleasing to the eye.
The cast here are great with strong performances from the three main leads. Ray Lovelock and Ornella Muti have great chemistry together and are both convincing as young free spirited hippies and comes across as very likeable and charismatic. Irene Papas also provides a strong performance with plenty of intrigue to her character and becomes more entertaining once her true intentions are revealed.
Overall 'Oasis of Fear' is an interesting and solid little flick with great performances, sure it could have done with a bit more thrilling moments, but its still worth a look in.
The plot follows a young couple Dick Butler (Ray Lovelock) and Ingrid Sjoman (Ornella Muti) who travel to Italy to sell pornographic pictures and soon end up on the run from the law. After being mistaken for a couple of bank robbers they end up at a nearby mansion owned by Barbara Slater (Irene Papas) who might have sinister intentions of her own.
The movie's set up is entertaining for the first half, but the pacing does sag a little during the middle, thankfully things pick up during the final act when the plot takes a few unexpected turns, especially during the very downbeat climax which makes everything a satisfying viewing experience. The direction by Umberto Lenzi is solid with enough effective sequences, some erotic sleaze and strong production values that makes this pleasing to the eye.
The cast here are great with strong performances from the three main leads. Ray Lovelock and Ornella Muti have great chemistry together and are both convincing as young free spirited hippies and comes across as very likeable and charismatic. Irene Papas also provides a strong performance with plenty of intrigue to her character and becomes more entertaining once her true intentions are revealed.
Overall 'Oasis of Fear' is an interesting and solid little flick with great performances, sure it could have done with a bit more thrilling moments, but its still worth a look in.