kclipper Review of The Spider Labyrinth

The Spider Labyrinth (1988)

This is a traditional Italian art-horror film spun into a web of suspense and intrigue!

[7/10 · 20 June 2011]

Here's an Italian virtuoso giallo horror film shot entirely in Budapest for maximum effect regarding mood and atmospheric tension. Professor Alan Whitmore is sent to the Hungarian town by his most distinguished colleagues to unlock the key to a mysterious project after his predecessor has a lapse in communication. Whitmore gladly accepts the task, unbeknown to the facts of whats to come. There he meets his beautiful guide, Genevieve (Paola Rinaldi) and a handful of strange locals who do not seem to be very welcoming. After his colleague is found murdered, the professor is taken on a spiral journey into a bizarre and intricate world dealing with a murderous sect that seems to be related to some sort of spider-God. This combines many fantastical elements including; bloody murders by a maniacal spider-like vampire woman, strange tattoos, spectacular set designs, sexual intrigue and just about every ingredient that makes up the classic Italian-horror cinematic achievement in all its wonder and originality including the classic H.P. Lovecraft weirdness and imagery. Horror special effects buffs will love the final moments of this underrated film as the ending is quite satisfying indeed, and if you find spiders giving you the 'creepy crawlies', then this one might get under your skin for sure! The only con to this is a slow-to-go pace and a weak male lead character, at least up until its bravado ending. Behold, rare Italian thriller buffs, this is one for your collection!