Its only a movie.
Italian director Dario Argento is no stranger to the macabre.
1996sThe Stendhal Syndrome, however, is a different, much darker beast.
She manages to escape, but the traumatic experience changes her irreparably.
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At that point you should strap yourself in for a long and bumpy ride.
Like any long and arduous journey, youll wonder if the destinations really worth the hassle.
Its not the graphic depiction of rape thats so distressing.
Its the toll it takes on Annas fragile mental state.
Her richly layered performance is accompanied by some equally deep themes.
The first, and most obvious theme is how art has power over us.
The second, which could be mistaken for misogyny, is the perceived frailty of the so-called weaker sex.
After Annas raped, she cuts her hair short, takes up boxing, and dresses more masculine.
She hates herself for what happened, and she doesnt want to be a victim anymore.
Morricones score is simple yet sinister, as it sets the tone of the film from its first shot.
Its not a film to be enjoyed, but to be endured.
Extras
Missing the days of crazy video rental artwork?
Well, apparently Arrow Video is resurrecting it in all its gory glory.
The DVD cover boasts stunning, newly commissioned artwork.
Some of the trailers are almost as visually arresting as Argentos films.
Well, not quite, but they do make for interesting viewing.
None of the extras are exactly essential, but it all makes for an excellent set for Argento fans.
Film:
The Stendhal Syndromeis out now andavailable from the Den Of Geek Store.
Rating:
3 out of 5
