The Bird With the Crystal Plumage is a 1970 movie directed by Dario Argento.
WHAT HAPPENS?
An American witnesses a murder in Rome before becoming a target of the killer.
ONE LINE REVIEW
The Bird With the Crystal Plumage is a stylish Giallo thriller that features fun acting and quirky characters.
THE ACTORS
Tony Musante plays Sam, an American novelist who performs an amateur investigation into a series of murders. Despite threats on his life – along with his girlfriend – Musante’s character remains affable and obsessed with solving the mystery, exhibiting an odd calm throughout.
Suzy Kendall’s Julia is excellent as Sam’s girlfriend – who is pulled deeper into danger as the mystery evolves. In many respects, we view terror through Kendall’s expressive eyes – as Musante’s character leads the killer to Suzy. Perhaps the movie’s best – and most tense – scene occurs as Kendall’s Suzy is trapped in her apartment as the killer tries to enter.
THE DIRECTOR
Argento crafts a gorgeous, moody atmosphere – one that creates tension but also adds an aesthetically intriguing layer of modernist style. Argento’s team uses a variety of interesting POV shots to exploit this design and create a lush but restricted environment. Similarly, the use of music and unique sound heightens the story’s drama. In terms of pure style, this movie is remarkable.
THE BEST – Quirky Characters
Some of the most memorable moments are delivered by the movie’s supporting cast. Mario Adorf disappears into the half-crazed, cat eating painter Berto Consalvi. Gildo Di Marco’s stuttering, paranoid prison informant Faiena is a scene stealer, along with Pino Patti’s stoic hitman Faiena.
THE BEST Part Two – The Victim
Eva Renzi delivers a terrific performance as the scorned and mysterious Monica Ranieri. She emerges as the ideal Giallo victim before her character undergoes a fun transformation.
THE BEST Part Three – Product Placement
You know you’re watching an early 1970’s Italian movie when you see J&B bottles strategically placed. Hopefully, Argento received a few bucks.
THE WORST – Time on the Clock
The movie’s twist arrives at a point in the story where all other murderer options have been extinguished. While the moment is still fun, its impact is lessened a bit. Yet the final climactic scene still works despite this minor flaw.
FOX FORCE FIVE RATING – 4.25/5
The Bird With the Crystal Plumage is a terrific Giallo representative. Argento crafts a stylish thriller that features some interesting quirks. A must watch.
