I have to say that before I comment on this title that I am a fan of Sergio Martino's films. Particularly 'Torso', which I rate as one of the greatest of all Italian horror films. Therefore, my enthusiasm for this film and my high rating should be taken with a pinch of salt by anyone looking for a classic giallo. This is no 'Solange'. In fact, this film could easily slip into the comedy-action-thriller genre. In its defence, I would say that it does have gorgeous topless girls savagely murdered in fantastic close-up and a catchy score too. Therefore, there is enough to keep fans of the genre interested. But, and it is a big but, there is no mystery element as we see the killer's face in all the death scenes. Are you still keen? Then read on.
The plot: A young hooker is discovered savagely murdered by inspector Germi, played by Claudio Cassinelli. He then embarks on a rather unorthodox investigation in search of the killer. Along the way, he happens to enlist the services of Giannino, a little pickpocket, and they both proceed to uncover a teenaged girl trafficking ring with connections that lead all the way up to the top.
There are some fine comedy moments in this film. How about this little exchange between Germi and a young woman he is questioning, to wet your appetite? "I'm collecting Stamps." "Oh yeah? Far out. Then stick one on your ass and send yourself to New York 'cause you're getting on my nerves." If this is your kind of comedy then there is plenty more where that came from. I only wish that the jokes and slapstick could have continued throughout the film.
Sazuma present the film restored and in 16:9 anamorphic widescreen. You get the original Italian language soundtrack with English, German and Dutch subtitles; along with a feature commentary by film critics Christian Kebler and Robert Zion. A featurette titled 'Crime Scene Milan', the Italian trailer and a poster gallery complete the package.
The bottom-line? Yes, it is a peculiar film and in no way can it rank alongside 'Torso', 'Excite Me' or 'The Strange Vice of Mrs Wardh'. Nevertheless, for Sergio Martino fans and must-see-every giallo types, this has to be a must-buy DVD.
The plot: A young hooker is discovered savagely murdered by inspector Germi, played by Claudio Cassinelli. He then embarks on a rather unorthodox investigation in search of the killer. Along the way, he happens to enlist the services of Giannino, a little pickpocket, and they both proceed to uncover a teenaged girl trafficking ring with connections that lead all the way up to the top.
There are some fine comedy moments in this film. How about this little exchange between Germi and a young woman he is questioning, to wet your appetite? "I'm collecting Stamps." "Oh yeah? Far out. Then stick one on your ass and send yourself to New York 'cause you're getting on my nerves." If this is your kind of comedy then there is plenty more where that came from. I only wish that the jokes and slapstick could have continued throughout the film.
Sazuma present the film restored and in 16:9 anamorphic widescreen. You get the original Italian language soundtrack with English, German and Dutch subtitles; along with a feature commentary by film critics Christian Kebler and Robert Zion. A featurette titled 'Crime Scene Milan', the Italian trailer and a poster gallery complete the package.
The bottom-line? Yes, it is a peculiar film and in no way can it rank alongside 'Torso', 'Excite Me' or 'The Strange Vice of Mrs Wardh'. Nevertheless, for Sergio Martino fans and must-see-every giallo types, this has to be a must-buy DVD.