Review of Suspiria (1977) by Dan G — 26 Mar 2009

Suspiria is not a sensible film. Like with most horror films (particularly ones from the 70's and 80's), the victims and potential victims make stupid decisions galore and more often than not unwittingly assist in their own execution.

The victims in Suspiria aren't as guilty of this behavior as in some movies, but it's still there. Motivation for the killings is little explored and the story here is flimsy. Yet I give this film 4 stars.

This is because Suspiria is one of the most gorgeously shot films I have ever seen. Detach yourself from the story of suspiria. Detach yourself even from the gore (you too, gorehounds). Watch Suspiria as if you were a snooty art critic, and just marvel at its beauty.

Then watch it a second time just to enjoy the campy, over the top gore. Poor reasoning and story or no, Argento still manages to craft a pretty darn terrifying atmosphere. Finally, watch the trailers for Suspiria (I foget if they are on disc one or the bonus disc); they are HILARIOUS.