Roberto Curti is a writer for various Italian and foreign magazines, known for his contributions to music, film, and literary publications. His work delves into the rich history of Italian cinema, particularly focusing on crime and noir genres. Curti offers an in-depth exploration of these cinematic movements, bringing a unique perspective to film history.
Mario Bava's Blood and Black Lace (1964) is commonly considered the archetypal giallo. This book examines its main narrative and stylistic aspects, including the groundbreaking prominence of violence and sadism and its use of color and lighting, as well as Bava's irreverent approach to genre and handling of the audience's expectations.
The term giallo, originating from a popular 1929 book series, has come to represent a diverse range of Italian mystery and detective fiction, extending beyond the violent and erotic thrillers of the 1960s and 1970s by directors like Mario Bava and Dario Argento. It includes various media forms such as comedies and political pamphlets, showcasing the genre's versatility. Iconic films like Blood and Black Lace and Deep Red have solidified giallo's international reputation, highlighting its evolution and cultural significance over the decades.
Marco Ferreri emerged as a daring figure in Italian cinema, collaborating with renowned actors like Marcello Mastroianni and Catherine Deneuve. His notable works include provocative films such as La Grande Bouffe and Dillinger Is Dead, which tackled themes like marriage crises, gender dynamics, and consumerism. Ferreri's unique approach often sparked controversy and censorship, cementing his reputation as a master provocateur. His bold storytelling and exploration of societal issues left a lasting impact on the film industry.
Elio Petri's career is marked by his exploration of controversial themes such as the Mafia, police brutality, and workers' struggles, showcasing his commitment to political and social issues. His films, including the science fiction satire and grotesque giallo, reflect a unique blend of irony and genre innovation. This book delves into Petri's life and work, contextualizing his contributions within postwar Italian culture and politics. It offers a detailed production history, critical analysis, and insights from previously unreleased Italian archival materials, along with discussions of his unfilmed projects.
Exploring the impact of Italian comics on culture and morality, this book delves into the phenomenon of "fumetti neri" and their evolution through the decades. It highlights iconic films and TV series inspired by these comics, including adaptations like DANGER: DIABOLIK and the KRIMINAL movies, as well as works featuring superheroes and erotic themes. Additionally, it features an essay on Turkish cinema's connection to Italian comics, complemented by vibrant illustrations of rare stills, lobby cards, and comic panels, showcasing the rich visual history.