Dario Argento: Main Page

Introduction

This UK site primarily deals with cult Italian film maker Dario Argento and his films.
The music from Dario's films; which generally consists of the excellent, Italian progressive rock group Goblin
and Ennio Morricone, possibly the world's greatest ever composer for film.
There is little doubt the horror genre has produced many great films, but sadly the majority of films are poor.
However I am a huge fan of Italian giallo films. Mario Bava's Blood and Black Lace is one of my all time favourites.
With the exception of some excellent films, the horror genre has generally remained a cult thing, with cheap video nasties and slasher
films over populating the market. I dislike many of these films for their lack of originality and poor quality,
but that doesn't mean I agree with banning these films or censoring them. I strongly disagree with film censorship.
LET'S PUT AN END TO FILM CENSORSHIP AND LET THE ADULT VIEWER DECIDE

Fans of Argento are referred to as Argentophiles. I have been a big fan for over ten years, so I guess I qualify.
He is without a doubt my favourite of all film directors, although the reasons I love his films are sometimes difficult to explain.
Dario's uses the camera to capture stunning, colourful visuals. His films are graphic, but contain beautifully sustained murder set-pieces.
Using the camera very much like an artist would a brush, his visual compositions often take precedence over plot.
Often dreamlike, surreal and at times even bordering towards arthouse, Dario can create a world far removed from our own.
Dario's films are rollercoaster rides into the unknown, the bizarre, where anything can and usually does happen,
Generally either murder mysteries or supernatural thrillers, both contain moments of nerve jangling terror.
Meticulously directed with perfectly framed, richly coloured sequences, these usually culminate in bravura shock sequences.
I find them colourful, energetic and exciting to watch. It's similar to watching a rock concert with a spectacular light show.
The lighting, colour, camera angles and movement all combining to tell the story.
It is the way Dario likes to direct his films and it's unique and visually rewarding.
Music plays a big part, and this is another aspect I love about Dario's films.
Whether it's thunderous, unholy sounds, electronic prog-rock scores or haunting melodies, these lend a huge level of atmosphere.
I think Dario is one of the most stylish, imaginative and visually impressive directors working today.

Grazie Dario

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PLEASE NOTE - This site is based on a horror director and related subject matter.
In order for me to convey a realistic approach to his work and the horror genre,
some images within will be fairly graphic.
This site may contain images of violence and mild nudity.
If you are easily offended please leave now.

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank all the Argentophiles out there for supporting Dario,
I'd also like to thank everyone for their kind words, the support and for all the e-mail.
Your interest in this site is very much appreciated.