Plot: What’s it about?
A condition known as the Stendhal Syndrome is quite rare, as those inflicted with it are stricken by intense feelings when they’re in the presence of specific artwork. When the condition strikes, the victim can experience blackouts, hallucinations, and other powerful symptoms while around the artwork. Anna Manni (Asia Argento) is a detective on the trail of a serial killer and rapist, when a visit to the museum sparks her Stendhal Syndrome. While incapacitated, Anna encounters the killer and she is raped. She isn’t shaken off the case however, quite the opposite. She pushes forward harder than ever to track down the killer, but all the while, her mind seems to be slipping into madness. Can she manage to find the sadistic madman or has she been pushed over the brink, led by an unstable mind to face untold dangers?
The films of Dario Argento are not for everyone, as his style over substance approach can leave some cold. In The Stendhal Syndrome, Argento points his visual talents toward the world of art and while inconsistent, the result is a film that is well worth looking into. The scenes in which we’re transported inside the artwork are visionary, as Argento puts his knack for visuals to excellent use and crafts some remarkable moments. His interpretations on the art are interesting also, so you might not look at these paintings the same way after The Stendhal Syndrome. As great as the visuals are, Argento struggles with the plot and drops the most promising element too soon, which slows down the film’s momentum. This is also simply too drawn out, a tighter cut might have made this a more enjoyable experience. The Stendhal Syndrome isn’t a great movie, but fans of Argento should check it out, as should anyone who enjoys unique visuals. As far as an upgrade to Blu-ray, the transfer is problematic and as such, it is hard to recommend another purchase.
Video: How does it look?
The Stendhal Syndrome is presented in 1.66:1 anamorphic widescreen. The added resolution of high definition can allow a film’s visuals to shine, but it can also amplify the film’s imperfections. This movie has never looked that good on home video and here, the grain and noise are simply magnified all the more. To be honest, it can be hard to even watch this at times and while the DVD versions look bad, at least the lower resolution masks some of the concerns. This isn’t the kind of transfer we want from Blu-ray and in truth, this looks more like a DVD presentation.
Audio: How does it sound?
The Stendhal Syndrome is presented in 1.66:1 anamorphic widescreen. The added resolution of high definition can allow a film’s visuals to shine, but it can also amplify the film’s imperfections. This movie has never looked that good on home video and here, the grain and noise are simply magnified all the more. To be honest, it can be hard to even watch this at times and while the DVD versions look bad, at least the lower resolution masks some of the concerns. This isn’t the kind of transfer we want from Blu-ray and in truth, this looks more like a DVD presentation.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes some interviews, as well as the film’s theatrical trailer.
