Review of Suspiria (1977) by Brandon V — 12 Aug 2009

I defy you to turn away once you start it. The visuals are phenomenal - filmed through an anamorphic lens and featuring the boldest use of primary colors I've ever seen, nothing in this film looks quite right. It all appears very surrealistic, and when coupled with otherworldly set construction (what godforsaken ballet school IS this?!), and a sublimely creepy score and eerie sound effects, you are never entirely at ease.

And in horror, that is, of course, the point. Few genres give filmmakers more of a license to be creative with their cameras. Large budgets need not apply, and it's clear that "Suspiria" did not have one. Dario Argento is simply a visionary. I will be seeking out the other two movies in his trilogy.

The climactic scares and overall shock value have not stood the test of time, and the dialog / acting is really hilarious, but this is well worth seeking out for horror aficionados and people who like their movies to have unique visuals.