An intriguing horror/thriller set in the depths of an Etruscan necropolis
Classical music serves as an extremely effective backdrop to the mystery
A film with an ever-increasing cult following
The tone of this macabre thriller is set in the opening scenes, in an Etruscan necropolis loaded with history and mystery. The director Armando Crispino stated that the idea for the film came to him during a visit to the necropolis at Cerveteri. He was awestruck by the tombs, which seemed to be possessed by an impalpable presence. Another interesting fact: this was one of the first horror films to exploit the power of classical music, which it does extremely effectively. In fact, the story takes place during the Festival dei Due Mondi (Festival of the Two Worlds) in Spoleto. The film is fast-paced and well-constructed, with sexual overtones and a morbid feel, characterised by inspired moments of hallucinatory suspense. It was a huge international success at the time of its release and continues to impress audiences.
An archaeologist who is a recovering alcoholic discovers the tomb of the Etruscan god of death in Spoleto. It is as though the discovery awakens a demonic force from the ancient past, and young couples begin to meet with violent deaths. The suspects include an orchestra conductor, whose wife was once romantically involved with the archaeologist. In order to find the truth, he will need to dig deeper.
An intriguing horror/thriller set in the depths of an Etruscan necropolis
Classical music serves as an extremely effective backdrop to the mystery
A film with an ever-increasing cult following
The tone of this macabre thriller is set in the opening scenes, in an Etruscan necropolis loaded with history and mystery. The director Armando Crispino stated that the idea for the film came to him during a visit to the necropolis at Cerveteri. He was awestruck by the tombs, which seemed to be possessed by an impalpable presence. Another interesting fact: this was one of the first horror films to exploit the power of classical music, which it does extremely effectively. In fact, the story takes place during the Festival dei Due Mondi (Festival of the Two Worlds) in Spoleto. The film is fast-paced and well-constructed, with sexual overtones and a morbid feel, characterised by inspired moments of hallucinatory suspense. It was a huge international success at the time of its release and continues to impress audiences.
An archaeologist who is a recovering alcoholic discovers the tomb of the Etruscan god of death in Spoleto. It is as though the discovery awakens a demonic force from the ancient past, and young couples begin to meet with violent deaths. The suspects include an orchestra conductor, whose wife was once romantically involved with the archaeologist. In order to find the truth, he will need to dig deeper.
