Killer Is On The Phone

Killer Is On The Phone is a captivating film from 1972 that stands out in the realm of mystery cinema. Starring the talented Telly Savalas, well-known as an Emmy Award-winning actor for his splendid portrayal in the classic series "Kojak," Anne Heywood, a British actress lauded for her compelling performances in numerous films, and Osvaldo Ruggieri, an Italian actor recognized for his charismatic contributions to the Italian cinema of the 70s, the film is enriched with stellar acting.

This cinematic offering is framed in the genre of Thriller and Belonging to the European school of the genre, it paves the way for a suspenseful narrative packed with twists and turns, and deeply reflexive dialogues.

Telly Savalas takes up the role of a daunting hitman whose sinister activities keep the viewers on the edge of their seats. His portrayal of a brutal individual walks a fine line between being enigmatic and frightening, shaping the thriller atmosphere of the movie. Savalas's brilliant performance lends the character a heavy layer of authenticity, and the fear his persona inflicts on others becomes almost palpable.

The beautiful and talented Anne Heywood plays Eleanor, a photojournalist who loses her memory following an accident. Vulnerable, scared, and confused, she finds herself tangled in a web of danger and intrigue. Struggling to regain her memory, she has to reconstruct the puzzle pieces of her past before it is too late. Heywood’s deep and emotive portrayal drags you into the character’s tormented world, making you part of her trauma and despair.

Amidst this dangerous game of cat and mouse, Eleanor's husband, Frank, played by Osvaldo Ruggieri, is desperate to help his wife remember and to protect her. His role brings moments of romance and passion into the intense thriller narrative, providing a reliable emotional pivot for the story.

Set in the historic city of Bruges, Belgium, the film takes full advantage of its locations. The city’s dark, narrow alleys and mystic canals deliver a gothic ambiance that feeds into the entrancing atmosphere of the movie. The beautiful yet eerie landscape adds another layer of suspense, complementing the unsettling scenario unfolding in the narrative. The iconic medieval architecture of Bruges contrasts sharply with the post-modern threat the film presents, painting a gripping backdrop against which the plot unfolds.

The film is brilliantly directed by Alberto De Martino, an Italian filmmaker particularly known for his dynamic direction in the thriller and horror genre. De Martino's prowess lies in weaving the storyline and subplots together to create a well-rounded narrative. He plays with light and shadow, relying heavily on the cinematic style of his era to emphasize the rising suspense throughout the film. His direction guarantees that Killer Is On The Phone serves as an intriguing piece that keeps audiences guessing until the very end.

The engaging screenplay written by Vincenzo Mannino, Gianfranco Clerici, and Alberto De Martino is filled with unexpected revelations and dramatic confrontations. It maintains the suspenseful and uneasy atmosphere, effectively building up the tension.

As for the music, composed by Stelvio Cipriani, it plays a crucial role in shaping the overall aura of tension and suspense. The score is haunting and impactful, conjuring dread and unease as it effectively underscores the suspenseful narrative.

Overall, Killer Is On The Phone is a classic piece of European thriller cinema. It is a cocktail of suspense, mystery, and psychological terror. The star-studded cast, expert directing, compelling script, and enchanting score all work together to hypnotize audiences, coaxing them into a dark world full of menace.

The movie is a must-watch for fans of the thriller genre who appreciate European cinema from the golden era. Its unique mix of mystery, suspense, and drama assures that it still has the power to unnerve and enthrall viewers, nearly fifty years after its initial release. Killer Is On The Phone showcases film-making at its most atmospheric and is a testament to the enduring allure of 70s thriller cinema.