I first came to appreciate the works of Dario Argento with two films he produced and co-wrote, Demons and Demons 2. Even thought these films were directed magnificently by Lamberto Bava, seeing them inspired me to further search for more of Argento works (due mainly to my misinterpretation of his true position in the production) Luckily, with my full indoctrination to the internet, I   have been able to expand the horizons of my Argento viewing. The internet and newsgroups have been vital tools in nurturing my whole horror experiences, just as I hope the "House of Horrors" will be to yours.

As I sat down trying to gain an understanding of what horror means to me, I have spent a great deal of time and effort trying to verbalize it on this site.  In the past I sought total horror pleasure in gore, gore, and more gore. I only thought that a horror movie was really good if it made others turn away in fear. Boy was I wrong. As I began to really look at what I enjoyed in horror, new criteria have been established for a fuller interpretation of my love. Yes, I love gore, but it isn't the most important thing for me. No, I realize it wasn't the gore that drove my enjoyment, but rather the imagery. This is not to say that gore and imagery cannot be the same thing, Fulci was excellent at combing the two. It's like that old saying "a picture paints a thousand word".

You may be asking yourself what does this all means to Dario Argento? Well, a lot. Argento is a master of imagery. His films are like masterpieces painted on the movie screen. Not only does he use imagery so well, but his use of musical scores are truly amazing. He has been able to mix these two key ingredients along with some great storytelling to truly become the "Master of Horror." A lot of people might not get Argento or understand where he is coming from, and I have been in that boat myself. Recently, I watched one of his newer film, Stendhal Syndrome. Again, the imagery and score were outstanding, but the movie kinda left me empty. I quickly hated it, but as a began to read more of Argento's comments on the film and re-examined it, I found it very enjoyable.

Some of my favorites of Argento's that I would recommend are: Demons, Demons 2, Opera(aka Terror at the Opera), Suspiria, Tenebrae, Stendhal Syndrome, and Inferno. Loved  Deep Red and  I am preparing to watch Bird with the Crystal Plummage at this moment. I would stay away from Creeper(aka Phenomena) even thought Argento says it his most personal film to date. I will make an attempt to get the new Phenomena laserdisc and give it another try.  Luckily, the Roan Group and Anchor Bay have begun to release many of the master's work on laserdisc, DVD, and VHS.  As always, please e-mail me with any comments, criticisms, or suggestions.

Looking to purchase some of Dario Argento's films, go here

[LEAVE YOUR MARK!!!!]
[Read FanSpeak]

Go to Dario Argento's Biography                             Go to Dario Argento's Filmography