Best B Movie to Watch

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At the antipodes of what are considered unmissable movies and masterpieces are the B movies. But in some cases, over time, the value of some of these B films has been reassessed to cult status.

B Movie: Meaning

The term b movie comes from the English definition that film studios used to give to minor films that were a sort of continuation of a more expensive main film. Just like the B side of a record was to be heard after the main tracks, but that doesn’t mean it was of lower value. 

How Are B Movies Born?

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The b-movie was born as a strategy to recycle sets, use cast actors still under contract when the shooting of the main film is finished, and exploit the materials of a film with a high cost to make one with a much lower cost. The b-movie was usually made in a few days, often in less than a week, and then screened in theaters along with the main film. 

The goal was to show two films at the cost of a single ticket. Especially in provincial towns this was possible, and the audience was happy to see two shows instead of one. The b movie screened after the main film usually did not have its own advertising campaign, had no posters or press releases: it was only advertised at the last moment with the trailer. It was like an added bonus of the main movie show, the most expensive movie. 

In this way, with the same investment, a film studio had the possibility of increasing revenues, sometimes doubling them. In some cases the b movies became higher-grossing than the main film. The history of cinema is full of b movies, especially produced by Hollywood majors in the 50s and 60s. From the 70s on b movies became a way of working for independent productions and film micro-enterprises that used a low budget to make genre films with a shamelessly commercial appeal. 

In fact, the b movie differs considerably from a independent arthouse film low-costand often has little to do with art. The spirit of the b movie is to use low-level materials, unknown actors who come from the undergrowth of the world of cinema to create films that can be interesting for a wide audience. 

The American B Movie

The American B movie spread in the 1940s and 1950s genres the western, horror and sciencefiction.The leading actor, with a single contract and a single pay, played both the series A film and the series B. The use of the B movie i also spread to other genres: any genre could be suitable and the double show was a good success. 

With the decrease in the rigidity of censorship in the 1960s, b-movies grew more and more, until they became a standalone genre with publicized releases such as Serie A films. Their contents were sometimes shamelessly violent and obscene, as in thegenre. grindhouse, which was distributed outside the large-scale distribution, in special events. 

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The advertising strategies of the grindhouse films became very effective, through the techniques of psychological saturation: catchphrases that bombard the public with slogans and trailers that hinted at the morbid content, until the curiosity to see the film became irresistible. 

Another American phenomenon concerning ib movie is that of midnight screenings: horror films, special events dedicated to a younger audience who want to spend the night watching scary films with friends. Events that have led to extraordinary successes of small low-cost horror films, such as Halloween by John Carpenter, or the more recent The Blair Witch Project. 

Martial arts films Bruce Lee’s, the so-called Hong Kong cinema, distributed first in the East and then released in the West, were also a notable success in the United States. 

Roger Corman’s B Movies

One of the American directors who was able to best interpret the logic of the b-movie is certainly Roger Corman. With tricks and special effects that are often grotesque and of low quality, Corman has been able to direct and produce films that have proved to be great commercial successes and works of good artistic value. Roger Corman’s filmography, both as a director and as a producer of series B films, is very long.

Roger-Corman

Another well-known exponent of the American b movie was Ed Wood, the director famous for having made some of the ugliest films in the history of cinema. The film Plan 9 from outer space, a classic of the science fiction-horror b movie, was released in theaters in 1959 but was ignored by critics, until, in 1978, two American critics called it the worst film of all time. , the film became incredibly popular. The insane plot of the film, a mess between zombies, vampires and UFOs, is actually particularly funny, and the film is one of the weirdest objects in the history of cinema that must be seen at least once in a lifetime. 

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In the United States, the phenomenon of series B films also involved the western. American westerns were conceived as low-cost commercial products without particularity artistic and creative inspiration. Their great success sparked the interest of the Italian film industry which produced well-known B-series western films such as Django and Unnamed man. From this group of small, unpretentious B-series films, however, one of the strands of the great Italian auteur cinema was born: the western by Sergio Leone

In the 1980s the b-movie phenomenon began to decline. The American public was becoming more and more accustomed to spectacular films and large productions with special effects. However, the production of B Movie continued with the Home Video distribution. The producers of b-movies sold their products directly to chains such as Blockbuster, or to cable television stations that broadcast 24 hours a day and also needed products to fill the afternoon and night schedules. 

In the 1990s, the cost of producing a film in the United States increased dramatically. The phenomenon of the American b movie was gradually replaced by independent films that preferred a more intellectual, arthouse and less commercial style. An independent cinema often also quotationist and Pulp like the Quentin Tarantino phenomenon, which exploded in those years with the low budget projects Le iene and Pulp Fiction. 

With the arrival of digital technology and distribution on the internet , low-cost independent and genre films have multiplied: it is estimated that over 5,000 small low-budget films are produced each year in the world. Since the beginning of the 2000s the concept of B Movie has disappeared, replaced with that of an independent film, without a clear distinction between art films and commercial films.

The independent director of the new millennium In fact, he has at his disposal all the tools necessary to make a film with very few means, with the help of digital cameras that generate images of the highest quality comparable to 35 mm film, and non-linear editing software that allow a total control of video and sound. Some independent directors choose the path of genre films chasing commercial and professional success inspired by what works in large-scale cinema distribution. 

Others use the possibility of making small low-cost films to create real works of art, also different from the previous conception of arthouse films. They are films that free themselves from the typical structure of the cinematographic product and the perception of entertainment to cross video art, philosophical reflection and poetry. Digital technology and underground distribution on the internet are today the most fertile ground for creating experimental films, in search of new ones avant-garde languages

Italian B Movies

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Italian cinema of Series B at low cost has been prolific as the American one. From the erotic comedy “pecoreccia” of the 60s aimed at an audience in search of erotic excitement, up to detective genre the B-series defined as “poliziottesco”, where the policeman, executioner or anti-hero, fights to restore order in a violent city , usually Naples, Rome or Milan. 

The sexy comedy performed by actors such as Lino Banfi, Renzo Montagnani and Alvaro Vitali, and by beautiful and young actresses such as Edwige Fenech, Barbara Bouchet, Lory Del Santo, Nadia Cassini, was made as a series of comic and bizarre gags, with an absurd flavor and grotesque. Although these films were made with an obsession to continually show the body of the leading actress, the quality of the actors and the writing made some of them truly hilarious, with a certain cinematic appeal. 

In the B-series detective story, the contribution of the actor must certainly be remembered Tomas Milian in various serial roles, re-proposed in many films over the years,: from Inspector Giraldi, to the thieving proletariat of the Roman suburbs nicknamed “Er Monnezza” (the garbage man). 

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Another Italian phenomenon that filled cinemas in the 1980s was that of Pierino. Played by Alvaro Vitali, he was inspired by an Antonio Rubino comic book character, who in turn had inspired a countless series of popular jokes. Pierino is thirty years old but he is small both physically and psychologically, and still goes to school. He is always aroused by the attractive professors and other women he meets in his adventures, and he always tries to spy on them in their intimacy, while they undress, from the keyholes. 

The series B films were making a lot of money and filling the cinemas. Someone then thought of making copies, that is, the B-side of the B-series film. Low-cost spaghetti westerns, detective films and sexy comedies multiplied with embarrassing imitations of successful characters. 

B movie not to be missed

There are several reasons why it’s worth watching B-movies, even though they may not have the same production values or budget as big blockbusters. Here are some reasons:

  1. Pure Entertainment: B-movies often focus on straightforward entertainment without too many pretensions. They can be enjoyable films to watch without the pressure of high expectations.
  2. Originality: B-movies tend to be bolder and more creative than mainstream films. Since they don’t have significant budgets, directors and writers are often forced to think innovatively and find creative solutions to tell their stories.
  3. Pop Culture: Many B-movies, especially those from the 1950s and 1960s, have become icons of pop culture. They’ve influenced music, fashion, and filmmaking and have built up a loyal following over the years.
  4. Camp and Irony: Some B-movies are so poorly made that they become funny unintentionally. This has led to a “cult of trash” culture where people gather to laugh at the flaws and oddities of these films.
  5. Experimentation: B-movies are often a fertile ground for emerging directors and new talents. Some successful directors started their careers working on B-movies before moving on to bigger productions.
  6. Unique Stories: Since B-movies aren’t bound by mainstream audience expectations, they can explore unusual or taboo themes and genres that mainstream films might avoid. This can lead to unique and surprising stories.

Watching B-movies can be a fun and rewarding experience for those interested in cinema outside the boundaries of high-budget productions. Each film has its own story and unique charm, and you might discover hidden gems and new perspectives on the world of cinema.

The Thing from Another World (1951)

The Thing from Another World (1951) is a black-and-white science fiction horror film directed by Christian Nyby and produced by Edward Lasker for the Winchester Pictures Corporation, distributed by RKO Radio Pictures. The film stars Margaret Sheridan, Kenneth Tobey, Robert Cornthwaite, and Douglas Spencer. James Arness plays The Thing, though he is difficult to recognize in costume and makeup due to both low lighting and other effects used to obscure his features.

The film is based on the 1938 short story “Who Goes There?” by John W. Campbell. The story follows a group of scientists who discover a crashed alien spaceship in the Arctic. The scientists soon find themselves being hunted by a creature from the spaceship that can mimic any form of life.

The Thing from Another World was a critical and commercial success, and it is considered one of the classic science fiction films of the 1950s. The film’s low-budget special effects have aged well, and the film’s suspenseful plot and atmospheric setting make it a still-enjoyable watch today.

Here are some of the things that make The Thing from Another World a classic b-movie:

  • The film’s low budget forced the filmmakers to be creative with their special effects. The Thing is mostly hidden in the shadows, and its true appearance is only glimpsed briefly. This creates a sense of suspense and unease, as the audience is never quite sure what the Thing is capable of.
  • The film’s setting is also an important part of its atmosphere. The Arctic is a remote and desolate place, and it provides the perfect backdrop for a story about a creature from another world.
  • The film’s cast is mostly made up of unknown actors, but they give good performances. Margaret Sheridan is particularly effective as the female lead, who must face the Thing alone.

The Thing from Another World is a well-made and suspenseful film that is still enjoyable to watch today. It is a classic example of the b-movie genre, and it is worth checking out for any fan of science fiction horror.

Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954)

  • It is a black-and-white monster horror film produced by William Alland and directed by Jack Arnold, from a screenplay by Harry Essex and Arthur Ross and a story by Maurice Zimm.
  • The film stars Richard Carlson, Julia Adams, Richard Denning, Antonio Moreno, and Whit Bissell. The eponymous creature was played by Ben Chapman on land and Ricou Browning in underwater scenes.
  • The film is set in the Amazon rainforest, where a group of scientists are studying the local wildlife. They soon discover a strange creature that lives in the Black Lagoon. The creature is a humanoid amphibian with sharp teeth and claws.
  • The creature is attracted to the beauty of Kay Lawrence (Adams), one of the scientists. It kidnaps her and takes her to its underwater lair. The scientists must rescue Kay and destroy the creature.
  • The film was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its special effects, direction, and atmosphere. It was also a box office hit, grossing over $5 million.
  • The film was followed by two sequels, Revenge of the Creature (1955) and The Creature Walks Among Us (1956).
  • The creature from the Black Lagoon has become a classic monster. It has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and comic books.

The film is considered a classic of the science fiction and horror genres. It was praised for its special effects, which were groundbreaking for the time. The film’s atmosphere is also highly effective, creating a sense of suspense and dread. The creature from the Black Lagoon is a memorable and iconic monster, and the film is a must-see for any fan of the genre.

The Blob (1958)

The Blob (1958) is a science fiction horror film directed by Irvin Yeaworth Jr. and written by Kay Linaker and Theodore Simonson. It stars Steve McQueen (in his first feature film leading role) and Aneta Corsaut and co-stars Earl Rowe and Olin Howland.

The film is about a gelatinous alien creature that falls to Earth and begins to devour people. The creature is unstoppable and grows larger and more powerful as it consumes more victims. A group of teenagers must find a way to stop the Blob before it destroys the town.

The Blob was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its suspenseful plot and effective special effects. The film was also a box office hit, grossing over $3 million.

The Blob is considered a cult classic and has been referenced in many other films and television shows. It has also been remade twice, in 1988 and 1995.

Here are some of the things that make The Blob a classic b-movie:

  • The film’s low budget forced the filmmakers to be creative with their special effects. The Blob is mostly made up of stop-motion animation and rear projection, but it is still effective and terrifying.
  • The film’s suspenseful plot keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. The Blob is always one step ahead of the characters, and it is never clear who will be its next victim.
  • The film’s characters are relatable and sympathetic. The teenagers in the film are just trying to survive, and they are faced with an impossible task.

The Blob is a well-made and suspenseful film that is still enjoyable to watch today. It is a classic example of the b-movie genre, and it is worth checking out for any fan of science fiction horror.

Attack of the Crab Monsters (1957)

  • It is a science fiction horror film directed by Roger Corman and produced by Alex Gordon. It stars Richard Garland, Pamela Duncan, and Russell Johnson.
  • The film is set on a remote island in the Pacific Ocean, where a group of scientists are conducting research. The scientists soon discover that the island is inhabited by giant crab-like creatures that are mutated by radiation.
  • The crab monsters are aggressive and attack the scientists. The scientists must find a way to stop the crab monsters before they are all killed.
  • The film was a critical and commercial failure. It was criticized for its low-budget special effects and its lack of originality.
  • However, the film has since gained a cult following among fans of B-movies. It is considered a classic example of the genre.

Here are some of the things that make Attack of the Crab Monsters a classic B-movie:

  • The film’s low budget forced the filmmakers to be creative with their special effects. The crab monsters are mostly made up of stop-motion animation and rear projection, but they are still effective and terrifying.
  • The film’s plot is simple and straightforward, but it is still suspenseful and exciting.
  • The film’s characters are relatable and sympathetic. The scientists in the film are just trying to survive, and they are faced with an impossible task.

*The film is also notable for its use of radioactive materials as a plot device. This was a common theme in science fiction films of the 1950s, and it reflects the public’s fear of nuclear war at the time.

Attack of the Crab Monsters is a well-made and suspenseful film that is still enjoyable to watch today. It is a classic example of the B-movie genre, and it is worth checking out for any fan of science fiction horror.

Them! (1954)

  • It is a science fiction horror film directed by Gordon Douglas and produced by David Weisbart. It stars James Whitmore, Edmund Gwenn, Joan Weldon, and James Arness.
  • The film is about a nest of giant irradiated ants that are discovered in the New Mexico desert. The ants quickly become a national threat when it is discovered that two young queen ants and their consorts have escaped to establish new nests.
  • The film was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its suspenseful plot and effective special effects. The film was also a box office hit, grossing over $2 million.
  • Them! is considered a classic of the science fiction horror genre. It is often cited as one of the best films of the 1950s.

Here are some of the things that make Them! a classic B-movie:

  • The film’s low budget forced the filmmakers to be creative with their special effects. The ants are mostly made up of stop-motion animation and rear projection, but they are still effective and terrifying.
  • The film’s suspenseful plot keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. The ants are always one step ahead of the characters, and it is never clear who will be their next victim.
  • The film’s characters are relatable and sympathetic. The scientists and military personnel in the film are just trying to do their jobs, and they are faced with an impossible task.
  • The film also reflects the public’s fear of nuclear war at the time. The ants are a product of radiation, and they represent the destructive power of nuclear weapons.

Them! is a well-made and suspenseful film that is still enjoyable to watch today. It is a classic example of the B-movie genre, and it is worth checking out for any fan of science fiction horror.

The Fly (1958)

  • It is a science fiction horror film directed by Kurt Neumann and produced by Edward Lasker for the Winchester Pictures Corporation, distributed by RKO Radio Pictures. It stars David Hedison, Patricia Owens, Vincent Price, and Herbert Marshall.
  • The film is based on the 1957 short story “The Fly” by George Langelaan. The story follows a scientist who accidentally merges his DNA with that of a fly after using an experimental teleportation device.
  • The film was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its suspenseful plot and special effects. The film was also a box office hit, grossing over $3 million.
  • The Fly is considered a classic of the science fiction horror genre. It has been remade twice, in 1986 and 1989.

Here are some of the things that make The Fly a classic B-movie:

  • The film’s low budget forced the filmmakers to be creative with their special effects. The fly transformation scene is mostly made up of stop-motion animation, but it is still effective and disturbing.
  • The film’s suspenseful plot keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. The scientist is slowly transformed into a fly, and it is never clear what he will become next.
  • The film’s characters are relatable and sympathetic. The scientist is just trying to do his job, and he is faced with an impossible situation.
  • The film also reflects the public’s fear of scientific experimentation at the time. The teleportation device is a dangerous invention, and it has terrible consequences for the scientist.

The Fly is a well-made and suspenseful film that is still enjoyable to watch today. It is a classic example of the B-movie genre, and it is worth checking out for any fan of science fiction horror.

Plan 9 from Outer Space (1959)

  • It is a science fiction horror film directed by Ed Wood and produced by Wood and his wife, Dolores Fuller. It stars Bela Lugosi, Tor Johnson, Vampira, and Criswell.
  • The film is about aliens who come to Earth to resurrect the dead in order to help them conquer the planet.
  • The film was a critical and commercial failure. It was praised for its camp value and unintentional humor, but it was also criticized for its poor production values and lack of coherence.
  • Plan 9 from Outer Space is considered one of the worst films ever made, and it has been parodied and referenced in many other films and television shows.

Here are some of the things that make Plan 9 from Outer Space a cult classic:

  • The film’s low budget forced the filmmakers to be creative with their special effects. The flying saucers are mostly made of cardboard and string, but they are still effective and hilarious.
  • The film’s plot is nonsensical and full of holes, but it is also strangely compelling.
  • The film’s cast is made up of up-and-coming actors and actresses, as well as some of the biggest names in horror cinema, including Bela Lugosi, who died during production and was posthumously filmed in several scenes.
  • The film’s director, Ed Wood, is considered one of the worst filmmakers of all time, but he is also one of the most beloved. His films are often praised for their camp value and unintentional humor.

Plan 9 from Outer Space is a film that is both bad and good at the same time. It is a film that is so bad that it is good. It is a film that is worth watching for its historical significance and its unintentional humor.

The Killer Shrews (1959)

  • It is a science fiction horror film directed by Ray Kellogg and produced by Jack Rabin and Al Zimbalist. It stars James Best, Mala Powers, and John Carradine.
  • The film is about a group of scientists who are sent to an island to investigate the disappearance of a research team. They soon discover that the island is inhabited by giant shrews that have been mutated by radiation.
  • The film was a critical and commercial failure. It was criticized for its low-budget special effects and its lack of originality.
  • The Killer Shrews is considered a cult classic among fans of B-movies. It has been praised for its over-the-top premise and its cheesy special effects.

Here are some of the things that make The Killer Shrews a classic B-movie:

  • The film’s low budget forced the filmmakers to be creative with their special effects. The killer shrews are mostly made up of stop-motion animation and rear projection, but they are still effective and terrifying.
  • The film’s plot is simple and straightforward, but it is still suspenseful and exciting.
  • The film’s characters are relatable and sympathetic. The scientists are just trying to do their jobs, and they are faced with an impossible task.
  • The film also reflects the public’s fear of radiation at the time. The killer shrews are a product of radiation, and they represent the destructive power of nuclear weapons.

The Killer Shrews is a well-made and suspenseful film that is still enjoyable to watch today. It is a classic example of the B-movie genre, and it is worth checking out for any fan of science fiction horror.

The Brain That Wouldn’t Die (1962)

  • It is a science fiction horror film directed by Joseph Green and produced by Sam Sherman. It stars Jason Evers, Virginia Leith, and Leslie Daniel.
  • The film is about a mad scientist who keeps his girlfriend’s severed head alive in a jar. He tries to transplant her head onto the body of another woman, but the experiment goes wrong.
  • The film was a critical and commercial failure. It was criticized for its low-budget special effects and its lack of originality.
  • The Brain That Wouldn’t Die is considered a cult classic among fans of B-movies. It has been praised for its over-the-top premise and its cheesy special effects.

Here are some of the things that make The Brain That Wouldn’t Die a classic B-movie:

  • The film’s low budget forced the filmmakers to be creative with their special effects. The severed head is mostly made up of a wig and a mask, but it is still effective and disturbing.
  • The film’s plot is nonsensical and full of holes, but it is also strangely compelling.
  • The film’s cast is made up of mostly unknown actors, but they give it their all.
  • The film’s director, Joseph Green, is known for his campy and over-the-top films, and The Brain That Wouldn’t Die is no exception.

The Brain That Wouldn’t Die is a film that is both bad and good at the same time. It is a film that is so bad that it is good. It is a film that is worth watching for its historical significance and its unintentional humor.

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Manos: The Hands of Fate (1966)

  • It is a horror film directed by Harold P. Warren and produced by Al Adamson. It stars Tom Neyman, John Reynolds, Diane Mahree, and Paul Blaisdell.
  • The film is about a family who gets lost on a desert road and stumbles upon a house inhabited by a devil-worshipping cult led by the fearsome Master and his servant Torgo.
  • The film was a critical and commercial failure. It was criticized for its low-budget production values, its amateurish acting, and its nonsensical plot.
  • Manos: The Hands of Fate is considered one of the worst films ever made. It has been parodied and referenced in many other films and television shows.

Here are some of the things that make Manos: The Hands of Fate a cult classic:

  • The film’s low budget forced the filmmakers to be creative with their resources. The devil-worshipping cult is mostly made up of cardboard cutouts and stock footage, but it is still effective and creepy.
  • The film’s plot is nonsensical and full of holes, but it is also strangely compelling.
  • The film’s cast is made up of mostly unknown actors, but they give it their all.
  • The film’s director, Harold P. Warren, is a true independent filmmaker who made the film with his own money.

Manos: The Hands of Fate is a film that is both bad and good at the same time. It is a film that is so bad that it is good. It is a film that is worth watching for its historical significance and its unintentional humor.

Django (1966)

  • It is a spaghetti western film directed by Sergio Corbucci and produced by Franco Solinas. It stars Franco Nero, José Canalejas, and José Bódalo.
  • The film is about a mysterious drifter named Django who is hired by a group of Mexican revolutionaries to help them overthrow a corrupt general.
  • The film was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its stylish visuals, its suspenseful action sequences, and its iconic character, Django.
  • Django is considered one of the greatest spaghetti westerns ever made. It has been imitated and referenced in many other films and television shows.

Here are some of the things that make Django a classic spaghetti western:

  • The film’s stylish visuals are a major part of its appeal. The film is full of striking images, such as Django’s black outfit and his iconic hat.
  • The film’s suspenseful action sequences are also a highlight. The film is full of gunfights, chases, and other exciting set pieces.
  • The film’s iconic character, Django, is a major reason for its success. Django is a mysterious and silent figure who is also a skilled gunfighter. He is a popular character who has been imitated and referenced in many other films and television shows.

Django is a well-made and stylish spaghetti western that is still enjoyable to watch today. It is a classic example of the genre, and it is worth checking out for any fan of westerns.

The Great Silence (1968)

  • It is an Italian western film directed by Sergio Corbucci and produced by Franco Solinas. It stars Jean-Louis Trintignant, Klaus Kinski, and Frank Wolff.
  • The film is set in 1880 Utah and tells the story of a mute bounty hunter named Silence who joins a group of bandits to help them defeat a group of corrupt soldiers.
  • The film was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its dark and violent atmosphere, the masterful performances, and the iconic score by Ennio Morricone.
  • The Great Silence is considered one of the greatest Italian westerns ever made. It was included in Empire magazine’s list of the 100 best films of all time.

Here are some of the things that make The Great Silence a classic Italian western:

  • The film’s dark and violent atmosphere is one of its most distinctive features. The film is full of violence and blood, and the film’s winter setting contributes to create an atmosphere of desolation and loneliness.
  • The masterful performances of the three leads are another strength of the film. Jean-Louis Trintignant is outstanding as the mute protagonist, Klaus Kinski is terrifying as the villain Tigrero, and Frank Wolff is a great sidekick for the two leads.
  • The iconic score by Ennio Morricone is another important feature of the film. Morricone’s music is essential to creating the film’s dark and violent atmosphere.

The Great Silence is a dark and violent Italian western, but it is also deeply human. It is a film that explores themes such as revenge, justice, and redemption. It is a film that is worth watching for any fan of westerns.

The Gang of the Hunchback (1972)

  • It is an Italian crime film directed by Umberto Lenzi and starring Tomas Milian as the title character, a Roman criminal who returns to Corsica after a long exile.
  • The film was a commercial success and helped to establish Milian’s career as a crime film actor.
  • The plot of the film is fairly simple: the Hunchback, a wanted criminal, returns to Corsica to avenge the death of his twin brother. The Hunchback joins a group of bandits and together they plan a robbery of a casino. However, the plan goes awry and the Hunchback finds himself facing a group of corrupt police officers.
  • The film is shot in a classic style, with many action and fight scenes. Milian plays the Hunchback with great charisma and the film is full of funny and ironic dialogue.
  • The Gang of the Hunchback is a film that has been praised by both critics and audiences. It is a fun and action-packed film that is a classic of the Italian crime genre.

Here are some of the film’s strengths:

  • Tomas Milian is outstanding in the role of the Hunchback. He is a charismatic and charming character who is both funny and dangerous.
  • The film is full of action and fight scenes. Lenzi is an expert director of action scenes and the film is full of exciting sequences.
  • The film is funny and ironic. The dialogue is witty and the film is full of moments that will make you laugh.

The Gang of the Hunchback is a film that is a must-see for fans of Italian crime films. It is a fun, action-packed film with a great lead performance.

Il mio nome è Nessuno (1973)


My Name is Nobody is a 1973 Italian western film directed by Tonino Valerii and starring Terence Hill and Henry Fonda. The film is a sequel to They Call Me Trinity (1970), but it is set in a later period and tells a completely different story.

The plot of the film is as follows:

Nobody is a young gunfighter who admires the legendary Jack Beauregard, an aging bounty hunter eager to retire. Nobody convinces Jack to return to action for one last job: to defeat the Wild Bunch, a group of 150 outlaws who are terrorizing the West.

The film was a critical and commercial success, and it established Terence Hill as one of the greatest interpreters of the western genre.

Here are some of the film’s strengths:

  • The Terence Hill-Henry Fonda pairing is a winning combination. Hill is perfect in the role of the young, carefree gunfighter, while Fonda is extraordinary in the role of the legendary bounty hunter.
  • The story is exciting and full of twists and turns. The film is a classic western, but with a touch of irony and comedy that makes it unique.
  • The action scenes are spectacular. The film is full of shootouts, chases, and fights that keep the viewer glued to the screen.

My Name is Nobody is a western film that is still highly regarded by fans of the genre today. It is a fun, action-packed film with a great story.

The Schoolgirl (1975)

The Schoolgirl is a 1975 Italian sexy comedy film directed by Michele Massimo Tarantini. The film stars Gloria Guida, Lino Banfi, Alvaro Vitali, and Ilona Staller.

The plot of the film is simple and linear. Loredana d’Amico is a young high school girl who is in conflict with her parents, who don’t understand her. Loredana is a lively and independent girl who loves to have fun and have new experiences.

One day, Loredana meets Professor Gianni Guidi, a mathematics teacher who falls in love with her. Guidi begins to pursue Loredana, who initially rejects him. However, the two eventually fall in love.

In the meantime, Loredana is involved in a series of adventures, which lead her to meet eccentric characters and hilarious situations.

The film was a major box office success, and it helped to launch the career of Gloria Guida. The film was also criticized for its sexually explicit content, which was considered very provocative at the time.

The Schoolgirl was a major box office success, and it helped to launch the career of Gloria Guida. The film was also criticized for its sexually explicit content, which was considered very provocative at the time.

La banda del trucido (1976)

“La banda del trucido” is a 1976 Italian crime film directed by Stelvio Massi and starring Tomas Milian as Sergio Marazzi, alias Er Monnezza. The film is the sequel to “Il trucido e lo sbirro” (1976) and the third film in the series dedicated to the character of Er Monnezza.

The plot of the film is as follows:

Commissario Ghini (Luc Merenda) is on the trail of a dangerous criminal, Belli (Elio Zamuto), who has organized a robbery of two jewelry dealers. Ghini asks for the help of Er Monnezza, a former thief who now drives a bus. Er Monnezza agrees to cooperate with the police, but only to save the life of his daughter, Ranocchia (Alessandra Mambretti), who has been kidnapped by Belli.

The film is a typical example of an Italian B-movie, with a simple and linear plot, but with a fast-paced pace and spectacular action scenes. Tomas Milian is perfect in the role of Er Monnezza, an antihero who is both charming and dangerous.

Here are some of the film’s strengths:

  • Tomas Milian is outstanding in the role of Er Monnezza.
  • The film has a fast-paced pace.
  • The action scenes are spectacular.

“La banda del trucido” is a film that is still highly regarded by fans of the Italian crime genre today. It is a fun, action-packed film with a great protagonist.

Here are some positive and negative reviews of the film:

  • “Tomas Milian is perfect in the role of Er Monnezza, and the film is full of spectacular action scenes.”
  • “The plot is simple and linear, and the film is a bit too violent.”

Overall, “La banda del trucido” is an Italian B-movie that is still highly regarded by fans of the genre today.

La dottoressa ci sta col dottore (1978)

https://youtu.be/tIPO4MEbB7k?si=036pm_cJurHkL6gv

La dottoressa ci sta col colonnello (1978) is an Italian comedy film directed by Michele Massimo Tarantini. The film stars Lino Banfi, Nadia Cassini, and Alvaro Vitali.

The film’s plot centers on Colonel Anacleto Punzone, a military doctor who is in love with the beautiful Dr. Eva Russell. Punzone is insecure about his virility and, in order to win the woman over, he decides to undergo a penis transplant. The transplant is performed by a colleague of the colonel, Dr. Arturo Mazzancolla, who has an exceptionally large penis.

The transplant is successful, but Punzone soon discovers that not everything is gold that glitters. The new penis is much larger than the previous one and causes Punzone no small amount of problems. The colonel must learn to manage his new member, which is the object of admiration and envy from all the men he meets.

The film is an hilarious comedy that plays on the theme of male virility. Lino Banfi is in top form as Colonel Punzone, an ingenuous and clumsy man who finds himself against his will at the center of an embarrassing situation. Nadia Cassini is a beautiful and sensual Dr. Russell, who is unaware of the problems that her love will cause Punzone. Alvaro Vitali plays Dr. Mazzancolla, a vain and narcissistic man who is jealous of the colonel’s success.

La dottoressa ci sta col colonnello is a funny and lighthearted film that was a major box office success. The film was also the subject of controversy for its explicit content, which outraged some moralists. However, the film was able to win over the public thanks to its popular humor and its satire of sexual taboos.

The Wizard of Speed and Time (1979)

  • It is a low-budget independent film directed by Mike Jittlov.
  • The film stars Mike Jittlov as himself, a special effects artist who creates a time machine to travel to the future.
  • The film is a mix of live-action and animation, and it features a variety of special effects techniques.
  • The film was a critical and commercial failure, but it has since become a cult classic.

Here are some of the things that make The Wizard of Speed and Time a cult classic:

  • The film’s low budget and independent production give it a unique charm.
  • The film’s mix of live-action and animation is visually striking.
  • The film’s special effects are groundbreaking for their time.
  • The film’s self-deprecating humor is endearing.
  • The film’s creator, Mike Jittlov, is a true independent filmmaker who made the film with his own money and resources.

The Wizard of Speed and Time is a film that is both unique and flawed. It is a film that is not afraid to be different, and it is a film that has inspired a generation of filmmakers.

Nightmare City (1980)

Nightmare City is a 1980 Italian horror film directed by Umberto Lenzi. It is a science fiction film with splatter elements, telling the story of a city invaded by mutants created by a nuclear contamination.

Dean Miller, a television journalist, is sent to interview a famous scientist who is about to land at the airport of a major city. But along with the scientist, also come monsters that overwhelm the police forces and soon invade the city.

Miller and his wife, Anna, find themselves trapped in an amusement park and try to escape the mutants. Meanwhile, the government tries to find a way to stop the contamination.

Nightmare City is a film that has divided critics. Some have praised it for its special effects and its horror atmosphere, while others have criticized it for its violence and its too simple plot.

The film has also been the subject of controversy for its portrayal of the mutants, who are often shown as brutal and violent beings.

  • The special effects, which were made with innovative techniques for the time.
  • The horror atmosphere, which is created by a skillful use of lights, sounds, and editing.
  • The performance of Hugo Stiglitz, who plays Dean Miller with charisma and suspense.
  • The plot, which is too simple and linear.
  • The violence, which is often gratuitous and gratuitous.
  • The portrayal of the mutants, which is often stereotypical and racist.

Nightmare City is a film that is not for everyone’s taste. However, it is a film that deserves to be seen for its historical importance and its originality.

The House by the Lake (1980)

The House by the Lake is a 1980 Italian thriller film directed by Ruggero Deodato. It is a “revenge movie” that focuses on the theme of sexual violence.

The story follows Tom, a wealthy young man who invites two down-and-out boys, Alex and Ricky, to a party at his villa. Tom and his friends plan to have fun by making fun of the two boys. However, Alex and Ricky are revealed to be two dangerous and violent individuals. Alex is a sexual predator, while Ricky is a mentally handicapped man who is subservient to Alex’s will.

The two boys seek revenge for the humiliations they have suffered by attacking and killing the wealthy young people. The violence in the film is very graphic and explicit, and the ending is particularly cruel.

The House by the Lake was a controversial film, criticized for its violence and sadism. However, the film has also been recognized as a cult classic of the horror genre, and it has had a certain impact on popular culture.

The film was directed by Ruggero Deodato, an Italian director known for his horror and splatter films. Deodato also directed other “revenge movies,” such as Cannibal Holocaust (1980) and Inferno in diretta (1985).

The cast of the film includes David Hess, Giovanni Lombardo Radice, Annie Belle, and Christian Borromeo.

The House by the Lake is a film that is not suitable for a sensitive audience. However, it is a film that is worth watching, at least to experience one of the most controversial films of the horror genre.

The City Torn Apart: The Hunt for the Maniac (1980)

The City Torn Apart: The Hunt for the Maniac (1980) is an Italian crime film directed by Umberto Lenzi. It is a giallo film with elements of thriller and horror.

The story follows a serial killer who terrorizes the city of Rome. The killer murders young women, decapitating them and leaving their heads in public places. The police, led by Inspector Santamaria, are on his trail, but they are unable to stop him.

The film is set in a dark and ominous Rome. The atmosphere is made even more oppressive by the score by Stelvio Cipriani.

The City Torn Apart: The Hunt for the Maniac is a film that has divided critics. Some have praised it for its suspense and tension, while others have criticized it for its violence and sadism.

The film has been praised for its dark and ominous atmosphere, the direction of Umberto Lenzi, and the performances of George Eastman and Barbara Bouchet.

However, the film has also been criticized for its excessive violence and sadism. Some scenes, such as the murder of Carlotta, are particularly cruel and disturbing.

Pierino contro tutti (1981)

Pierino contro tutti is an Italian comedy film directed by Marino Girolami. The film stars Alvaro Vitali, Michele Gammino, Michela Miti, Riccardo Billi, Enzo Liberti, Attilio Dottesio, Diana Dei.

The film is the first in the successful series of Pierino films, based on the popular jokes and stories about the young troublemaker.

The plot of the film centers on Pierino, a primary school child who is always getting into trouble. After an accident, his teacher is replaced by a young and beautiful substitute, with whom Pierino falls in love instantly. However, he must face the rivalry of Professor Celani, who is also trying to seduce the new arrival.

The film is a series of gags and comic situations, in which Pierino makes things difficult for everyone around him. Professor Celani, in particular, is the victim of his cruelest pranks.

Pierino contro tutti was a huge box office success, launching Alvaro Vitali’s career as a comedian. The film contributed to creating the myth of Pierino, a character who has become an icon of Italian popular culture.

Here are some additional details about the film:

  • The film was shot in Rome and Viterbo.
  • The title of the film is a reference to the fact that Pierino finds himself having to face everyone, from the teacher to the principal, to his own classmates.
  • The film spawned a series of sequels, including Pierino colpisce ancora (1982), Pierino torna a scuola (1983), Pierino contro tutti a scuola (1984), Pierino torna a casa (1985), Pierino torna a scuola di nuovo (1986) and Pierino medico della mutua (1988).

The film was criticized for its often vulgar humor and for its depiction of a provincial and bigoted Italy. However, the film was able to win over the public thanks to its fast pace and slapstick comedy.

Amityville Possession (1982)

Amityville II: The Possession is a 1982 American supernatural horror film directed by Damiano Damiani and starring James Olson, Burt Young, Rutanya Alda, and Diane Franklin. It is the second installment in the Amityville Horror film series, and is a loose sequel to the 1979 film The Amityville Horror.

The film tells the story of the Montelli family, who move into the infamous Amityville house after the DeFeo murders. The family soon begins to experience strange and terrifying events, and the eldest son, Sonny, becomes increasingly possessed by an evil spirit.

Amityville II: The Possession was a critical and commercial failure, but it has since gained a cult following among horror fans. The film is notable for its graphic depiction of demonic possession, and for its use of religious imagery.

If you are looking for a disturbing horror film, then Amityville II: The Possession is definitely worth checking out. However, be warned that the film is not for the faint of heart.

Ultimately, whether or not you enjoy Amityville II: The Possession is a matter of personal taste.

That Villa in the Park (1982)

That Villa in the Park is a 1982 Italian science fiction horror film directed by Giuliano Carnimeo.

The film tells the story of Terry, a young woman who arrives on an island in the Caribbean to investigate the death of her sister, Marlis, who was found killed and eaten by rats. Terry is helped in her investigation by Fred, a mystery writer she meets at the airport.

Soon, Terry and Fred discover that the killer is a half-monkey, half-rat mutant, created by a doctor in a laboratory on the island. The mutant is ferocious and uncontrollable, and it is hiding in the woods around the island.

Terry and Fred manage to track down the mutant and kill it, but not before it has killed many people. The film ends with Terry returning to the United States, traumatized by what she has experienced.

Characters

Terry: A young woman who investigates the death of her sister.
Fred: A mystery writer who helps Terry in her investigation.
Marlis: Terry’s sister, killed by the mutant.
The Mutant: A monster that is half-monkey and half-rat, created by a doctor.

That Villa in the Park is a B-movie, but it has gained a cult following among horror fans. The film is known for its monstrous creatures, gore scenes, and eerie atmosphere.

The film was praised for its special effects, which were considered very realistic at the time. The gore scenes were enjoyed by horror fans, but they also drew some criticism. The eerie atmosphere of the film was created thanks to the direction of Giuliano Carnimeo and the soundtrack by Stefano Mainetti.

Demons (1985)

Demons is a 1985 Italian horror film directed by Lamberto Bava and produced by Dario Argento. The film is known for its use of practical special effects and gore makeup, which were considered very realistic at the time.

The story follows a group of people who are trapped in a cinema in West Berlin during a screening of a horror film. The cinema is invaded by demons that possess people, transforming them into monstrous creatures.

The film was a critical and commercial success, and helped to launch the career of Lamberto Bava. It was also one of the films that helped to define the Italian splatter genre.

The film opens with two young women, Sharon and Jenny, who meet to see a horror film at the Metropol cinema in West Berlin. Dr. Paul McCoy, a scientist who is studying a demonic virus, is also in the audience.

During the screening, the demons escape from a contaminated film reel and begin to possess people. Sharon and Jenny are among the first to be possessed, and they begin to kill the people around them.

Sharon: A young woman who is possessed by a demon.
Jenny: A friend of Sharon’s who is possessed by a demon.
Dr. Paul McCoy: A scientist who is studying a demonic virus.
Criticism

Demons was a critical and commercial success. The film was praised for its practical special effects and gore makeup, which were considered very realistic at the time. The story was also praised for its suspense and pacing.

Demons was one of the first films to use practical special effects and gore makeup to create realistic monsters. The demons in the film were created using a combination of prosthetics, makeup, and animatronics.

The special effects were created by Sergio Stivaletti, who also worked on other Argento films, such as Suspiria (1977) and Deep Red (1975). The gore makeup was created by Giannetto De Rossi, who also worked on other horror films, such as Zombie (1978) and La casa (1980).

Demons is considered one of the most representative films of the Italian splatter genre. The splatter genre is characterized by strong graphic violence and excessive use of blood and internal organs.

Deliria (1987)

The film is directed by Michele Soavi and stars Laura Trotter, David Brandon, and Serena Grandi.
The film is about a young woman named Alicia who is invited to a theater rehearsal for a new musical. However, she soon realizes that the theater is haunted by a killer.
The film is known for its graphic violence and gore, and it has been compared to other Italian horror films of the era, such as Demons (1985) and Stage Fright (1987).
Deliria was released in Italy in 1987 and was met with mixed reviews. However, the film has since gained a cult following among horror fans.
Here is a brief summary of the plot:

Alicia is a young woman who is invited to a theater rehearsal for a new musical. She is excited about the opportunity, but she soon realizes that something is wrong. The theater is dark and deserted, and there is a strange atmosphere in the air.

Alicia begins to have strange visions, and she soon realizes that the theater is haunted by a killer. The killer is a masked figure who stalks the theater, killing anyone who gets in their way.

Alicia must find a way to survive the killer’s wrath and escape the theater alive.

Deliria is a well-made horror film with some impressive special effects. The film is also quite suspenseful, and it does a good job of building up the tension. However, the film is also quite violent and gory, so it is not for the faint of heart.

If you are a fan of Italian horror films, then you should definitely check out Deliria. It is a well-made and suspenseful film that will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat.

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