The Bird With The Crystal Plumage (1970)

The Bird with the Crystal Plumage is a 1970 giallo film by Italian director Dario Argento. The film is a work in which Argento started his directorial career and is considered an important turning point in the Giallo genre.

The plot of the movie is about American writer Sam Dalmas (Tony Musante) investigating a murder he witnessed in Milan. Sam witnesses an attack outside an art gallery late one night and is trapped behind a glass door by the attacker. After the event, Sam encounters a series of suspects and dangers as he tries to unravel the secrets behind the murder.

"The Bird with the Crystal Plumage" is characteristic of the Giallo genre. The film has a complex story structure and successfully combines elements of suspense, mystery and horror. The violent scenes, impressive cinematography and atmospheric soundtracks that have become Argento's signature make the film unforgettable.

The film also includes elements that helped the giallo genre gain popularity. Characteristic elements such as a black-gloved killer, masked figures, complex murder scenes, and psychological elements in which the protagonist feels guilty are common features of "The Bird with the Crystal Plumage" and giallo films.

"The Bird with the Crystal Plumage" was lauded by movie critics and horror movie fans, and is considered one of the pioneers of the giallo genre. Argento's directorial skills, suspenseful story and striking visual style have made the film a classic.

The movie begins with Sam Dalmas arriving in Milan. Late one night, while walking outside an art gallery, Sam witnesses an attack inside. He stabs an aggressor woman. However, as Sam observes the event from the outside, he attracts the attention of the attacker and is trapped behind the door.

The police release Sam and Sam decides to investigate the case. While chasing the murderer, he tries to uncover the secrets behind the attack. His investigations lead him to gallery owner Monica Ranieri (Eva Renzi), the gallery's staff, and other suspects.

As Sam tries to piece together the evidence, he finds himself in a series of dangerous situations. His own life is in danger as he races against time to uncover the truth behind the murders. In the end, he pursues the murderer to discover the truth and save his own life.

The film carries the typical features of the giallo genre. A complex story structure, an atmosphere full of mystery, violent scenes, psychological tension and twists full of surprises make the movie impressive. Sam's own investigations reveal the truth and find the identity of the murderer, keeping the audience in awe throughout the film.

• "The Bird with the Crystal Plumage" is the first feature film of the famous Italian director Dario Argento. This film kickstarted Argento's directorial career, making him one of the leading figures in the giallo genre.
• The film is considered a giallo classic and is cited as one of the most important examples of the giallo genre. Giallo is a subgenre of Italian thriller and horror cinema, often featuring a complex crime story, violent scenes, and a suspenseful atmosphere.
• "The Bird with the Crystal Plumage" stands out as a film that showcases the visual and cinematographic style Argento usually uses. Argento focuses on the strong use of colors and compositions in his films, which adds to the atmosphere and impact of the film.
• The film is known for its mysterious and violent scenes. It draws attention with its surprising turns and details that will surprise the audience. Argento skillfully uses psychological tension as he engages the audience in his journey to discover the real perpetrator of the murders.
• "The Bird with the Crystal Plumage" is considered a landmark in European cinema, and especially in the giallo genre. The film contributed to the popularization of the giallo by influencing other films in this genre.
• The film is considered by some critics as one of Argento's best works. Its original structure, impressive cinematography and successful use of the characteristic elements of the giallo genre have made the film a classic.

"The Bird with the Crystal Plumage" is recognized as an important work in Dario Argento's career and giallo cinema, and offers an unforgettable experience for giallo lovers.

Director : Dario Argento
Writers : Dario Argento, Fredric Brown
Director of Photography : Vittorio Storaro

Music : Ennio Morricone
Production : 1970 - Italy - 96 m.
Genre : Crime / Horror / Mystery / Thriller

CAST :

Tony Musante

Suzy Kendall

Enrico Maria Salerno

Eva Renzi

Umberto Raho

Renato Romano