Episode 16: Dario Argento’s Deep Red (1974)
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 93%
Ever wondered how the art of cinema, comedy, and horror meld together in Dario Argento's notable work, "Deep Red"? Strap in, because Chad and Mike are here to take you on an intriguing journey through the labyrinth of this classic film. We'll navigate through the eerie music, the brilliant(?) editing, and the elements that make this an interesting piece of cinema, despite the contrasting opinions we both hold about Argento's work.
The journey becomes more riveting as we dissect the inconsistent elements of the film. You'll discover how the protagonist's loud phone calls and the unexpected comedy affect the suspense. We also unveil the movie's underlying misogyny and discuss the stand-out one-liners, all while analyzing the dated elements like the music, the unrealistic blood, and outdated views on women. Get set to explore the terrifying death scenes and the uncanny use of makeup and aesthetics that define horror cinema.
In the final leg of our journey, we dive into the intricate film techniques and plot points that Argento used, focusing on the iconic death scenes and the use of red herrings. We'll examine the influence of historical references, including themes of perfection and sterility, and the homage to Italy's fascist period. Then we wrap up our discussion with a lively debate on the artistic merit of "Deep Red". So tune in, as we pay tribute to the respect this film commands in the world of cinema. Get ready to see Argento's "Deep Red" in a whole new light.
Plot Summary:
A jazz pianist and a wisecracking journalist are pulled into a complex web of mystery after the former witnesses the brutal murder of a psychic. (Taken from IMDb)
Watchability Scale
We gave the film a 6 on the Watchability Scale. Research and discussing the film brought Mike up from a 2!
Links
Weird Music Scene from Deep Red (YouTube Video)
DEEP RED: Argento’s Ultimate Giallo (YouTube Video)
Guillermo Del Toro on DEEP RED (YouTube Video)
Dario Argento on the Making of Deep Red (YouTube Video)
Pictorial Imagery, Camerawork, and Soundtrack in Dario Argento’s Deep Red (University Paper)
Crimson Quill’s Appraisal #384 Review (Rivers of Grue)