Death Smiles on a Murderer

Death Smiles on a Murderer is a classic horror film that was released in 1973. This glamorous yet terrifying movie includes a renowned cast of actors, including Ewa Aulin, Klaus Kinski, and Giacomo Rossi Stuart. The film explores elements of the supernatural, the love triangle, and intricate plot sequences full of suspense and psychological horror.

The film is set in early 20th century, in a provincial area of Austria. The story begins with Greta (Ewa Aulin), who is a troubled woman from a wealthy background, trying to come to terms with the traumatic life events she suffered. Struck by amnesia after a tragic accident, Greta throws herself into the arms of her brother Franz (Luciano Rossi) and the tormented love emerges between them, which surrounds viewers with an unusual sense of macabre.

Moreover, she also captures the attention of Doctor von Ravensbrück (Klaus Kinski), an eccentric scientist experimenting with the concepts of death and immortality, whose interest in Greta is more than purely medical. Greta also bewitches the sophisticated Walter von Ravensbrück (Giacomo Rossi Stuart), who adds another bizarre element to the troubled love triangle.

Director and writer Joe D'Amato uses this complex love triangle and uniquely intertwines it with elements of the supernatural. Greta mysteriously possesses a mystical amulet linked to the ancient Egyptian deities, which holds the power to bring the dead back to life. It is through this supernatural twist that the film brings the horrifying blend of vengeance and dark forces into the narrative.

Death Smiles on a Murderer is not a straightforward horror story. Instead, it is a narratively non-linear horror film that unfolds its plot through labyrinthine sequences filled with flashbacks and dream-like imagery. It disorients the viewer in a mesmerizing depiction of the macabre and surreal, imbued with psychological suspense that continually builds tension, keeping viewers on the edge of their seat until the very last moment.

The film is heightened by its atmospheric cinematography. The exquisite attention to details, from lavish hairstyles and unique Victorian dresses to the grandeur of the estates and the beautifully designed interiors – every frame captures the beauty of the period it portrays, acting as a contrasting background to the horrifying events unfolding.

Aulin excellently portrays Greta as a femme fatale, bringing a mixture of vulnerability and disturbing allure to the role. Kinski adds depth to his character, playing a mad scientist with a captivating intensity that is both terrifying yet somewhat admirable. Rossi Stuart, however, brings a sense of sanity amidst the chaos, grounding the narrative with his more traditional role.

The music by Berto Pisano is haunting, adding an additional layer of suspense to the entire plot. Each track adds dramatically to the atmosphere, escalating the chilling sensations of the story and creating a captivating aura that stays with the viewers long after the film ends.

Considered one of the more unique members of the early 1970s Italian giallo horror films, Death Smiles on a Murderer stands out through its unique blend of supernatural elements enveloped in a tale of passion and revenge. The film does not shy away from showcasing graphic violence, yet it is its psychological suspense that makes it an unforgettable piece of cinema.

In conclusion, Death Smiles on a Murderer is a visually rich, narratively complex horror masterpiece of film. With its Gothic undertones, lavish period detail, and unforgettable performances, it offers more than your typical horror film. It is a psychological journey filled with suspense, terror, and a dash of supernatural themes, making it a must-watch for lovers of unique and atmospheric horror cinema that leaves a lingering psychological impact.