Inferno (2016)

Dante’s Inferno is one of my favorite works of literature and any time I find something that is linked to that work, I devour it. That is why I was excited by my last trip to Family Video. That is where I found the 2016 entry Inferno.

Plot/ When Robert Langdon wakes up in an Italian hospital with amnesia, he teams up with Dr. Sienna Brooks, and together they must race across Europe against the clock to foil a deadly global plot.

Let me start by saying that I did not read this book, so I have no idea how well the adaptation is. Unfortunately, in this case, I imagine that I would have been better of searching out the book instead of watching this one. While not a terrible movie, there was nothing truly memorable about it and it did not come across in a smooth and coherent manner. Yes, the performances are solid, the score amazing, and using Dante and the classic Inferno as a basis is a great choice for a mystery, but those elements cannot make up for the overall disjointed and rushed feel of the film. In the end, this is entertaining, but it is also very forgettable. Unless you are a Landon fan or totally immersed in the works of Dan Brown, there are better choices for you.

Inferno (1980)

As I sat down enjoying some flicks last night, it was awesome to travel back to my youth and enjoy some decent giallo. My decision was the 1980 Dario Argento entry Inferno.  

Plot/ Semi-sequel to Suspiria has a American college student in Rome, and his sister in New York investigating a series of killings in both locations where their resident addresses are the domain of two covens of witches.

Being the second movie in a series can be great or terrible, and I honestly feel this one falls somewhere in between. While not perfect, this flick has some great moments that make it a solid and chilling entry in the Argento’s world of the Three Mother’s.  The story, while vast and rather fluid, creates a world all its own, full of darkness. The casting, acting, and effects are solid. And as always, the flick features Argento’s timeless cinematography, color pallet and use of a dramatic score that transforms the mood into a gothic nightmare. Sure, the character development is lacking and some of the story is truly incoherent, but those flaws are easily overlooked. In the end, if you are a fan of Argento this is a must see. If not, check it out anyway, you will probably enjoy it.