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Phantom of Death
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Wikipedia article
{{Infobox film
| name = Phantom of Death
| image = Phantom of Death poster.jpg
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| director = Ruggero Deodato
| producer = Piettro Innocenzi
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| starring =
| music = Pino Donaggio
| cinematography = Giorgio Di Battista
| editing = Daniele Alabiso
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| country = Italy
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'Phantom of Death' (, lit.'An Uncommon Crime') is an Italian giallo directed by Ruggero Deodato and released in 1988. It starred Michael York, Donald Pleasence and Edwige Fenech. The film was released in Germany as 'Off Balance'.Luther-Smith, Adrian (1999). Blood and Black Lace: The Definitive Guide to Italian Sex and Horror Movies. Stray Cat Publishing Ltd.
Plot
Robert Dominici is a pianist who suffers from a genetic condition that causes him to physically age at a rapid pace and also to go mad. Distraught by his condition, Dominici goes on a killing spree. Inspector Datti sets off to catch him. Meanwhile, Dominici targets the Inspector's daughter, Gloria.
Cast
Background
Deodato has stated that "I did 'Phantom of Death' because it was based on a true element the idea of growing old [...] And I got to work with Michael York and Donald Pleasence."
On the film as a whole, he commented that "some parts look like an 'A' production. But it seemed too long in the final part." He added that Edwige Fenech was miscast, and was only included because the producer wanted her in the film.
Reception
From contemporary reviews, "Lor." of 'Variety' commented that the film had "little suspense". The review noted that York had "solid thesping which engenders some pathos for the central figure" and added that Pino Donaggio's score was "lush".
References
Sources
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