Book Review: Giallo Meltdown Vol. 2 by Richard Glenn Schmidt


Overall, this is a really enjoyable feature that comes across really well. A winning concept, detailing the spur-of-the-moment thoughts and reactions to a marathon viewing session of these films with a friendly demeanor and a writing style that prioritizes informing readers to the genre, makes this a fast, breezy read. The casual approach that disregards massive spoilers in favor of quick-shot impressions and well-rounded opinions featured for the chosen films makes it easy to get enough of a feel as to whether that particular title might be worth seeking out without ruining everything, and in a book detailing the type of obscure titles as this one covers is immeasurably appreciated.

That leads to what is perhaps the best or worst part of the book in the gluttony of obscure and under-the-radar titles presented. Not just content to wandering through the giallo landscape but looking into other rabbit holes including Krimi's, psychological thrillers, borderline titles, and even what would appear to be genre fare from outside countries, the wealth of films looked at here might be outside the scope of influence even by hardcore fans and be somewhat difficult to acquire or view. Those who are fine with that approach will have plenty to appreciate here, while those looking for more on films they've seen or heard might be slightly turned off here. Still, this might be the only real issue to be had with this overall.

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