| Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
| Michael Brandon | ... |
Roberto Tobias
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| Mimsy Farmer | ... |
Nina Tobias
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| Jean-Pierre Marielle | ... |
Gianni Arrosio
(as Jean Pierre Marielle)
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| Bud Spencer | ... |
Diomede 'Dio'
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Aldo Bufi Landi | ... |
Pathologist
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Calisto Calisti | ... |
Carlo Marosi
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Marisa Fabbri | ... |
Amelia, the Maid
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Oreste Lionello | ... |
The Professor
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Fabrizio Moroni | ... |
Mirko
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Corrado Olmi | ... |
Porter
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Stefano Satta Flores | ... |
Andrea
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Laura Troschel | ... |
Maria
(as Costanza Spada)
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| Francine Racette | ... |
Dalia
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Dante Cleri | ... |
Coffin Salesman
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Guerrino Crivello | ... |
Rambaldi, the Neighbor
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Roberto, a drummer in a rock band, keeps receiving weird phone calls and being followed by a mysterious man. One night he manages to catch up with his persecutor and tries to get him to talk but in the ensuing struggle he accidentally stabs him. He runs away, but he understands his troubles have just begun when the following day he receives an envelope with photos of him killing the man. Someone is killing all his friends and trying to frame him for the murders... Written by Giancarlo Cairella <[email protected]>
Excellent early thriller from Italian horror master Dario Argento was a strong finish for his "Animal Trilogy" giallo films.
Musician accidentally kills a mysterious stalker, now someone is black mailing the poor guy, as well as murdering anyone who interferes with his deadly vendetta.
Four Flies on Grey Velvet was Argento's third and final entry in his fine trilogy of animal-themed giallo thrillers. Four Flies is one of the better films of the trilogy, second only to Argento's great debut film Bird with the Crystal Plumage (1970). Four Flies is classic Argento that flourishes with beautiful visual style and spooky vibes. It has an intriguing storyline with plenty of tight suspense sequences, bizarre atmosphere, and a rather dark sense of humor. The mystery element is kept quite high too and the plot remains compelling throughout. Ennio Morricone's lovely, haunting music score is also a welcomed addition.
The cast is also good. Star Michael Brandon makes for a likable and sympathetic hero. Mimsy Farmer is also a highlight as Brandon's fragile wife.
A unique film on all levels, Four Flies on Grey Velvet remains one of Argento's best pre-Deep Red (1975) films and it serves as a great omen to the stylish masterpieces that the director would follow with in the coming years.
*** 1/2 out of ****