Five Women for the Killer Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Five Women for the Killer" offers an intriguing visual experience, courtesy of a 4K scan from a 35mm archival positive. The AVC encoded image exhibits a 2.39:1 aspect ratio, effectively capturing detail across skin surfaces and fibrous textures in clothing. Interiors are richly detailed with plenty to observe, while exteriors maintain a commendable dimensionality. The color palette is vibrant, with stylish lighting accentuating blazing reds and period outfits showcasing deep primary colors. Skin tones appear natural, and overall delineation remains satisfactory with film-like grain.

The original staging by cinematographer Sergio Rubini, who employed 35 mm film in 2-perf Techniscope with spherical lenses, translates well in this presentation. Despite some noticeable frame damage, speckling, and occasional blotches, the release stands out for its historical authenticity by delivering the never-on-video original theatrical cut. Some significant damage exists, such as the affected frames at 14:38 and instances of flashing during the opening credits. While shadow detail suffers from black crush and density fluctuations are evident, these issues don't overshadow the impressive color balance achieved.

Overall, the release presents itself as a noteworthy restoration effort given the available elements and existing damage. Though minor flaws persist, its video quality surpasses all previous home video renditions, offering both nostalgic appeal and visual depth that fans of the genre will appreciate.

The Blu-ray presentation of "Five Women for the Killer" offers an audio track in Italian 2.0 Mono DTS-HD Master Audio, accompanied by removable English subtitles. The dialogue is predominantly post-synced, typical of Seventies Italian filmmaking, leading to occasional dissonance within the soundstage. While not overly disruptive, this fact is important to note for aficionados of audio purity. Additionally, the track handles dialogue adequately but can exhibit harshness during more extreme vocal moments, such as intense screams.

Giorgio Gaslini’s score is a standout feature, albeit with some noticeable peaks and distortion adding character rather than detracting from the auditory experience. The jazzy and suspenseful themes are well-captured, with instrumentation maintaining a strong support within the mix. Though sound effects present as somewhat blunt, they remain appreciable and contribute to the mood-setting throughout the film. Despite minor audible damage, such as hissing or pops, the overall experience retains an appropriate period authenticity, appealing to nostalgia enthusiasts and genre scholars alike.

The Blu-ray extras for "Five Women for the Killer" offer a compelling examination of the film and its context within the Italian cinema landscape. The commentary by Eugenio Ercolani and Troy Howarth provides an insightful dissection of director Stelvio Massi's career and his atypical engagement with the giallo genre, highlighting his preference for violence over sexuality. Interviews such as "My Name is Howard," featuring Renato Rossini, and "Working with Stelvio," with Luc Merenda, give personal accounts of their experiences in the industry, detailing collaborations with iconic directors. Danilo Massi's tribute in "The Massi Touch" adds depth to understanding his father's filmmaking aura. Additionally, "Cinematographers in Arms" and "Five Women for a Giallo" enrich the narrative with perspectives from behind the camera. These extras effectively illuminate the film’s historical significance and technical ambitions.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: Insightful analysis by film historians Eugenio Ercolani and Troy Howarth.
• My Name is Howard: Actor Renato Rossini's career retrospective.
• Working with Stelvio: Luc Merenda discusses collaborating with Stelvio Massi.
• The Massi Touch: Danilo Massi reflects on his father's influence and techniques.
• Five Women for a Giallo: Film historian Luigi Cozzi's perspective on the giallo genre.
• Cinematographers in Arms: Roberto Girometti's appreciation piece on Stelvio Massi.
• Gore Inserts: Exploration of graphic footage added during the film's re-edit.

"Five Women for the Killer," directed by Stelvio Massi, is a giallo film that presents a provocative premise centered on a serial killer targeting pregnant women. While the idea is inherently unsettling, Massi approaches it with a certain restraint, avoiding excessive visual horror and instead crafting a narrative that recalls elements of soap opera drama. The performances are committed, which aids the development of the story and keeps viewers engaged as the mystery unfolds. Despite its grim theme, the movie captures an oddness that keeps the audience intrigued, leveraging themes of toxic relationships and betrayal throughout.

Massi's film is particularly notable for its handling of exploitation elements such as nudity and vulnerable characters in dangerous situations. These are managed with a level of professionalism that keeps the film from becoming excessively gratuitous. The violence primarily manifests through murder sequences involving a gloved killer stalking new mothers. Massi balances this with a strong focus on character development and narrative, weaving a tale that is interested in exploring complex interpersonal dynamics as much as revealing brutal truths. While the story tends to dip into melodrama, this adds an engaging layer of dramatic tension as the protagonist grapples with shocking revelations about his past and marriage.

Although it wasn't a commercial success, "Five Women for the Killer" remains a significant, if overlooked, entry in Massi's body of work and the broader giallo genre. It provides both shock and suspense by maintaining an intricate subplot with various red herrings and suspects. The presence of characters such as a pediatrician, a mistress, and a race car driver complicates the narrative, leaving viewers immersed in an elusive detective storyline that stimulates interest throughout.

"Five Women for the Killer" delivers a quintessential giallo experience, weaving a tale of bodily harm and morally dubious characters that climaxes in the unmasking of the true murderer. Director Stelvio Massi crafts a narrative that fulfills the genre's expectations of suspense and intrigue while providing a sharp, if predictable, resolution. The film balances its macabre elements with an approachability that ensures engagement without overwhelming the audience. While it might not redefine the genre, it complements traditional giallo storytelling by delivering tension and curiosity without veering into excessive repulsion.

The Blu-ray release celebrates the film's first home video distribution in its theatrical cut, a significant moment for giallo enthusiasts and collectors. Vinegar Syndrome's dedication to offering the deluxe treatment is evident, despite the limitations of the available film elements. The video quality offers a notable improvement over previous formats, though it retains the charm of its original production. Additionally, the inclusion of a comprehensive set of extras enhances the value of this release, making it a recommended acquisition for those prepared for its dark narrative journey.

In conclusion, "Five Women for the Killer" stands as a moderately engaging thriller within the giallo framework, benefiting from this Blu-ray release's emphasis on quality and preservation. For fans and newcomers alike, this edition represents both an archival triumph and an entertainment opportunity. While the film may not astound, it effectively captures the essence of giallo, making it a commendable addition to any cinephile's library.