Shadow of Death is a little known Italian thriller, but also a very interesting one and it's certainly a film that doesn't deserve to be missed. The film is often considered a part of the Giallo genre; and although it lacks many of the genre trademarks, the fact that it features a few; as well as the fact that it was released in 1969, mean that it just about qualifies as a part of the genre. The film takes in the classic thriller plot line of a wife wanting to kill her husband for financial gain and mixes this with the idea of wanting to send someone insane (this was also featured in Umberto Lenzi's well revered Giallo Orgasmo) and the idea of identical twins. The film begins as we witness a stranger arrive in town. He quickly goes to see his ex-lover Denise, who is not so happily married to John; and is having an affair with his identical twin brother Peter. They are also plotting to send John insane. After the stranger (later revealed to be a man named Gert) has his blackmail attempts rebuked, the pair decide to enlist his help for their plot.
Director Javier Setó cleverly gives his film a very claustrophobic setting, which ensures that the focus is always on the main characters. The storyline is twisted and clever; and the characters play a very important part in the proceedings. The director ensures that there's a good reason for all their motivations; and while most of them do wear their emotions on their sleeves, it still provides a relatively engaging viewing. There isn't a great deal of variety in terms of the locations used but the style and atmosphere always fits the film, and this makes up for it. The plot at times does get a bit choppy and it doesn't always make complete sense; but generally speaking the film flows fairly well and does more than enough to keep the audience interested for the eighty five minute running time. As we boil down to the climax and more twists come into play; things do get very interesting. Overall, this is a well thought-out and well put together little thriller and while I wouldn't quite call it a must see, it is very much worth a look if you can find a copy.
Director Javier Setó cleverly gives his film a very claustrophobic setting, which ensures that the focus is always on the main characters. The storyline is twisted and clever; and the characters play a very important part in the proceedings. The director ensures that there's a good reason for all their motivations; and while most of them do wear their emotions on their sleeves, it still provides a relatively engaging viewing. There isn't a great deal of variety in terms of the locations used but the style and atmosphere always fits the film, and this makes up for it. The plot at times does get a bit choppy and it doesn't always make complete sense; but generally speaking the film flows fairly well and does more than enough to keep the audience interested for the eighty five minute running time. As we boil down to the climax and more twists come into play; things do get very interesting. Overall, this is a well thought-out and well put together little thriller and while I wouldn't quite call it a must see, it is very much worth a look if you can find a copy.