One on Top of the Other

One on Top of the Other, known in its native Italy as Una sull'altra, is a giallo thriller film brought to life by the directorial genius of Lucio Fulci. Released in 1969, this film features stellar performances by actors Jean Sorel, Marisa Mell, and Elsa Martinelli. The movie oscillates between the genres of mystery, crime, and drama, while dowsing the audience in the classic Italian giallo atmosphere, mixing suspense, eroticism, and plot twists to create a rich and intriguing cinematic experience.

In this gripping tale, Jean Sorel portrays the role of Dr. George Dumurrier, a San Francisco-based doctor who operates a clinic with his brother Henry (played by Alberto de Mendoza). Dr. Dumurrier appears to be leading a thriving life professionally. However, his personal life exhibits a stark contrast, marred by the burden of caring for his chronically ill wife, Susan (played elegantly by Marisa Mell). Plagued by his circumstances, Dr. Dumurrier seeks solace in his secret affair with a coworker's sister, Jane (brilliantly enacted by Elsa Martinelli).

The plot thickens, when Susan fatally succumbs to an asthma attack, pushing Dr. Dumurrier's life into a whirlwind of suspicion and danger. It is not long before he finds himself embroiled in a scandalous insurance fraud conspiracy due to a fortuitous life insurance policy, roiling his place in society and rattling his tranquil professional existence.

However, as the clouds of doubt hover above him, a strikingly bewitching exotic dancer, Monica Weston (also played by Marisa Mell in a dual role), known for her uncanny resemblance with Susan, enters the picture. The danger and intrigue snowball at this point, as Dr. Dumurrier finds himself drawn to this seductress, intrigued by her striking likeness with his deceased wife, further intensifying the suspense quotient of the movie.

One on Top of the Other is a cinematic masterpiece in its depiction of characters and the gradual unfolding of its intricate plot. The extravagant plot line does justice to the film's giallo roots, as it progressively and unpredictably delves into themes of deceit, love, guilt, lust, and revenge. It is replete with Fulci's signature blend of death, mystery, and sensuality, reflecting shades of the iconic Hitchcockian thriller flavor.

The two leading ladies, Marisa Mell and Elsa Martinelli, deliver commendable performances, with Mell's double role adding a fresh edge to the plot. Mell impressively manages to imbue both roles with unique identities, creating a distinct aura around both of her characters. On the other hand, Elsa Martinelli as the mistress Jane, showcases portrayals of charm and manipulative propensity with an intense level of detail and depth. Conversely, Sorel's performance as Dr. Dumurrier is enthralling, shifting the viewer's perception of him regularly, from a grieving widower at one moment to a possible scheming murderer in the next.

When it comes to the visual aspects of the film, One on Top of the Other is a stunning spectacle. The cinematography beautifully captures the colorful, yet, whimsical San Francisco's scenery alongside the haunting interiors lit by neon lights, adding a symbolic juxtaposition of light and shadow to the narrative. The soundtrack by Riz Ortolani sets the tone perfectly, heightening the sumptuous mood of the film while amplifying the emotional tension.

One on Top of the Other, for all its sensual glamour and seductive mystery, remains a film about the human psyche's galvanizing complexities. Lucio Fulci's early giallo style masterwork successfully reflects the paranoia, deceit, and manipulation that taint human relationships, all wrapped up in a stylish and suspenseful package.

In conclusion, One on Top of the Other is a captivating giallo classic. The film beautifully weaves together a plot teeming with mystery and suspense while staying true to its thrilling genre roots. Its layered characters, providentially crafted narrative, and unexpected twists ensure that it is more than a mere cinematic experience, presenting audiences with a visual treat along with a profound contemplation of human psychological complexity.