"The Cat O'Nine Tales" is not one of the most celebrated thrillers of Italian director Dario Argento, and yet the film is a very good one in its kind. The plot is rather simple and entertaining -several mysterious murders related with a scientific institute in Rome that deals with human criminal behaviour based on genetics- and it is skilfully handled all along by the director up to the final disclosure.
By the time of this movie (his second one, of the early 70's), Argento still appears more controlled than in his later works were he focused specially on the murder and killing sequences far more sadistic and bloody ("Tenebbre" / 1982 and "Opera" / 1987, for instance); but, on the other hand, his plots were more elaborated and inspired like in "The Bird with the Cristal Plumage" / 1970 or "Deep Red" / 1975).
The masterful handling of cameras and the peaks of high tension that became a trade mark in the Roman director's career will not be missed in this one (the murder sequence at the train station as seen from the eyes of the killer is excellent). The usual internationally recognized actors in the leading roles -surely to benefit world wide markets- and the local (Italian) performers in the supporting parts are also found here; and though acting was never one of Argento's principal items to attend to, the presence of the always convincing and reliable Karl Malden and the correct James Franciscus bring to this film an extra "plus" (in spite of an interesting but wooden Catherine Spaak).
All in all, "The Cat O'Nine Tails" turns out as a fine and most entertaining product in its genre that will surely not disappoint thriller/horror fans.
By the time of this movie (his second one, of the early 70's), Argento still appears more controlled than in his later works were he focused specially on the murder and killing sequences far more sadistic and bloody ("Tenebbre" / 1982 and "Opera" / 1987, for instance); but, on the other hand, his plots were more elaborated and inspired like in "The Bird with the Cristal Plumage" / 1970 or "Deep Red" / 1975).
The masterful handling of cameras and the peaks of high tension that became a trade mark in the Roman director's career will not be missed in this one (the murder sequence at the train station as seen from the eyes of the killer is excellent). The usual internationally recognized actors in the leading roles -surely to benefit world wide markets- and the local (Italian) performers in the supporting parts are also found here; and though acting was never one of Argento's principal items to attend to, the presence of the always convincing and reliable Karl Malden and the correct James Franciscus bring to this film an extra "plus" (in spite of an interesting but wooden Catherine Spaak).
All in all, "The Cat O'Nine Tails" turns out as a fine and most entertaining product in its genre that will surely not disappoint thriller/horror fans.