TENEBRE (OST)

Seen by some as Argento's last great film before his long, slow decline, 1982's 'Tenebrae' features American actor Anthony Franciosa as a successful horror novelist promoting his new book in Rome, only to discover that the book is influencing a rather nasty copycat killer. Very much a return to the director's giallo roots, 'Tenebrae' finds the Italian director blending slasher elements(a sub-genre then in it's infancy) with a murder mystery plot, though his trademark flourishes, such as the stylish, fluid camerawork and yet more brutal and bloody violence, are still very much in check. Curiously, much of 'Tenebre' is filmed during the day, with most of the action set in either harsh, brightly lit interiors or outdoors during natural light . As a result, 'Tenebre' features a rather unsettling tone, but like much of Argento's work, this carefully-constructed design is sadly marred by some rather weak acting, some genuinely atrocious dubbing, and, once again, the director's almost complete disregard for the convetions of plot and narrative. Therefore, despite the lofty claims of some esteemed film writers, 'Tenebre' proves a genuine mixed bag, even for long time fans like this very writer, with excellent technical craft spoiled by lazy writing and bad acting. The same, however, canot be said the soundtrack from three of the members of Argento's usual soundtrack aurthors Goblin. Issued under the moniker of Simonetti-Pignatelli-Morante, 'Tenebre' has become something of a fan favourite over the years, even hittng the mainstream thanks to its sampling by the french dance duo Justice on their excellent 2007 debut album 'Cross'. The title-track, with it's whirring synth lines and bouncy melody, belongs to that small group of iconic Goblin theme tunes that beautifully sum up the feel of their respective movies, though here there is a slightly modernistic, almost dancey edge to the music. The rest of the album is made up of the usual instrumental pieces, some better than others, but like all soundtrack albums the key is to listen to it all in one go. Only then can you grasp the fundamental dynamic of both movie and album. So, not quite in the same class as the real Goblin classics - read 'Suspiria' or 'Deep Red' - but 'Tenebre' certainly has it's moments. The film may prove disappointing, but don't let that put you off, this is still vintage Goblin. STEFAN TURNER, STOKE NEWINGTON, 2014