Stendhal Syndrome Blu Ray Review

​Before I get into the review I want everyone to know that the Stendhal Syndrome is actually a real thing, in fact here is what Wikipedia has to say on the matter

​ "Stendhal syndrome, Stendhal's syndrome, hyperkulturemia, or Florence syndrome is a psychosomatic disorder that causes rapid heartbeat, dizziness, fainting, confusion and even hallucinations when an individual is exposed to an experience of great personal significance, particularly viewing art."

Turns out famous Giallo Director Dario Agento actually experienced this when he was a child While touring Athens with his parents young Dario was climbing the steps of the Parthenon when he was overcome by a trance that caused him to become lost from his parents. Years later he read La Sindrome di Stendha which became the basis for this film

It stars Dario's daughter Asia Argento who plays a detective chasing a serial killer. She follows him into an art museum and is stricken with stendhal syndrome and the killer is able to evade her.

Unfortunately for her he also learns of her condition and triggers her Stendhal Syndrome so he can kindnap, rape, and torture her. She escapes but is soon kidnapped again. This second time however she manages to shoot the killer and escape.

Believing him to be dead she resumes her normal life and even falls in love. However people close to her begin getting murdered, which leads to on fantastic twist of an ending you want see coming.

This is considered one of Dario's best films and for good reason. Fantastic acting by the entire cast, and a great menacing tone he'll to captivate the viewers. Throw in a fantastic moody score and you have a great film. And now it is finally getting the treatment it deserves from Blue Underground on a 3 disc limited edition release.
Special features
Disc 1 Extras:
NEW Audio Commentary with Troy Howarth, author of So Deadly, So Perverse

Three Shades Of Asia - NEW Interview with Star Asia Argento

Prisoner Of Art - NEW Interview with Co-Writer Franco Ferrini

Sharp As A Razor - NEW Interview with Special Makeup Artist Franco Casagni

Theatrical Trailer

Poster & Still Gallery

Disc 2 Extras:

Director: Dario Argento

Inspiration: Psychological Consultant Graziella Magherini

Special Effects: Sergio Stivaletti

Assistant Director: Luigi Cozzi

Production Designer: Massimo Antonello Geleng

BONUS Collectable Booklet featuring new writing by author Michael Gingold

This is a must own for fans cinema. It's captivating from beginning to end. I highly recommend
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Overall 4.5 out of 5 Stars