Full Moon Of The Virgins

Full Moon of the Virgins, directed by Luigi Batzella, is a gothic horror film from 1973. Featuring a star-studded cast that includes Mark Damon, Rosalba Neri, and Esmeralda Barros, this Italian film takes viewers on a journey through the uncanny and supernatural, building ambiance and drama through complex character development, evocative cinematography, and the astute use of chilling music and sound effects.

Born in Massachusetts, Mark Damon, who was already an established star at the time of the film's release, delivered a compelling performance as Count Karl Hummel. His deep-set eyes and severe features lent an edge of intensity to his character, further heightening the film's suspense. Rosalba Neri, known for her enchanting beauty and engaging screen presence, played the character of Countess Dolingen of Gratz, the enigmatic damsel who seems to come with mysterious shadows. Esmeralda Barros, one of the most prolific actresses of her time, is unforgettable as Luisa, a young virgin maiden who is at times innocent and other times bewitching.

The movie begins in the heart of Eastern Europe, in the mid-18th century. Count Karl Hummel, a dashing yet mysterious and enigmatic aristocrat, becomes the new heir to a vast and eerie castle following his father's unexpected death. With the inheritance come countless secrets, grim tales, and a checkered history that haunts the ancient castle's winding corridors and shadowy chambers. Count Karl finds himself engrossed and, gradually, irrevocably entangled in the castle's wicked aura, and the storyline unravels with increasing intensity as the nights grow darker and the full moon draws near.

To add to the plot's mystique, a centuries-old tradition is upheld in the town surrounding the castle. Every year, on the dreaded night of the full moon known as the 'Full Moon of the Virgins,' virgin maidens chosen from the community are offered to the castle. This somber and archaic tradition, ostensibly set in stone, adds a layer of dread to the already chilling atmosphere permeating the horror tale.

Rosalba Neri as Countess Dolingen of Gratz is a particularly captivating character who injects more mystery into the narrative. With her seductively melancholic gaze and rich enigmatic character, she manages to command the viewer's attention throughout the film. Meanwhile, Esmeralda Barros' character, Luisa, with her hypnotic innocence and inherent vulnerability, also plays a crucial part in the unfolding horror that ensues as the night of the dreaded full moon encroaches.

Luigi Batzella's direction expertly delivers an atmosphere of brooding tension and an impending sense of doom visually. The film utilises the backdrop of the spooky castle and the sinister woods surrounding it to its advantage. Cinematographer Mario Mancini's eye for detail and penchant for creating effectively eerie environments does not go unnoticed.

The superb editing by Ornella Micheli aids in establishing the sinister undertone of the movie, while composer Vasili Kojucharov brilliantly encapsulates the eerie, suspenseful vibe with his chilling score. One cannot ignore the careful orchestration of the sounds and images designed to evoke a clear sense of terror, which proves to be one of the film's strongest attributes.

Full Moon of The Virgins explores the interplay of light and dark, innocence and malevolence, and the human and the supernatural with a compelling, albeit uncanny narrative. Although it is soaked in the traditions of gothic horror, the film has its unique elements, making it intriguing for viewers who appreciate the genre.