The idea of an Italian murder mystery set in Australia (based on, or inspired by, a true story) is a compelling enough hook for this reasonably well done film. Ray Milland plays Inspector Thompson, a retired detective who is allowed to help out in the investigation of a partly charred corpse found in a car on a beach. At the same time, we follow another story, that of a waitress named Glenda (the stunning Dalila Di Lazzaro) who has a couple of lovers, and even marries one, but won't commit to one man alone. As it turns out, the stories are ultimately connected.
"The Pyjama Girl Case" is a stylish film, gorgeously shot by Raul Artigot and Carlo Carlini and capably directed by Flavio Mogherini. It didn't always completely involve this viewer; the melodrama in Glendas' story just wasn't as interesting as the murder investigation portions of the picture. The slow pace has to rate as another debit. But at least the film is always pleasing to look at, in more ways than one: it also features some striking female nudity, and Di Lazzaro looks great in or out of costume. This further benefits from a lovely music score by the always reliable Riz Ortolani (of "Cannibal Holocaust" fame).
The acting is solid from all concerned. It's a treat to see Milland (who actually smiles on a number of occasions) in this sort of thing, but when he disappears from the story, the film can't help but suffer. The international cast also includes Michele Placido, Mel Ferrer, Howard Ross, Rod Mullinar, and Giacomo Assandri.
Admirers of those Italian films known as Gialli may find this to their liking.
Seven out of 10.
"The Pyjama Girl Case" is a stylish film, gorgeously shot by Raul Artigot and Carlo Carlini and capably directed by Flavio Mogherini. It didn't always completely involve this viewer; the melodrama in Glendas' story just wasn't as interesting as the murder investigation portions of the picture. The slow pace has to rate as another debit. But at least the film is always pleasing to look at, in more ways than one: it also features some striking female nudity, and Di Lazzaro looks great in or out of costume. This further benefits from a lovely music score by the always reliable Riz Ortolani (of "Cannibal Holocaust" fame).
The acting is solid from all concerned. It's a treat to see Milland (who actually smiles on a number of occasions) in this sort of thing, but when he disappears from the story, the film can't help but suffer. The international cast also includes Michele Placido, Mel Ferrer, Howard Ross, Rod Mullinar, and Giacomo Assandri.
Admirers of those Italian films known as Gialli may find this to their liking.
Seven out of 10.