The Fifth Cord
Directed by Luigi Bazzoni
In Luigi Bazzoni’s fast-paced giallo, a reporter (Franco Nero) investigating a string of killings becomes the main suspect. As the obsessed madman continues slaughtering his victims, the journalist has to double and triple his efforts in order to avoid taking the rap. Though Bazzoni only made a handful of gialli, each frightening film features strong acting, clever dialogue and stunning camerawork - thanks in this instance to the director’s wise decision to hire legendary cinematographer Vittorio Storaro (APOCALYPSE NOW, THE BIRD WITH THE CRYSTAL PLUMAGE) to lens the scary story.
In Luigi Bazzoni’s fast-paced giallo, a reporter (Franco Nero) investigating a string of killings becomes the main suspect. As the obsessed madman continues slaughtering his victims, the journalist has to double and triple his efforts in order to avoid taking the rap. Though Bazzoni only made a handful of gialli, each frightening film features strong acting, clever dialogue and stunning camerawork - thanks in this instance to the director’s wise decision to hire legendary cinematographer Vittorio Storaro (APOCALYPSE NOW, THE BIRD WITH THE CRYSTAL PLUMAGE) to lens the scary story.
Cast: Franco Nero, Silvia Monti, Wolfgang Preiss
Member Reviews
A bit hard to follow, the kills are weak, and there are some pacing problems. On the other hand, my god, the cinematography! One amazing shot after another, after another. And good performance by Franco Nero. Worth seeing, even if it's not quite a top-tier giallo.
I stream this film so frequently it will probably be on when I die. One of my favorite Morricone scores, Storaro's camerawork (lighting the interior of the car Nero and Silvia Monti are sitting in with the headlights of the car parked behind it!), great cast. The credit sequence that introduces all the characters as they interact at the bar is a highlight for me.
A must for fans of the giallo genre. Some interesting camera work as well. 3.5 skulls.
Yup, enjoyed it.
4/5 - Good giallo! Unfortunately, I figured it out well before the ending.