Happy Goat Horror

When it comes to giallo films, Black Belly of the Tarantula doesn’t always get the love it deserves. But let me tell you—this is a movie that is absolutely worth your time. From the moment the film opens with that haunting, lush Morricone score to the final reveal, it’s clear that Black Belly is a slick, stylish thriller that could give any of the genre’s heavy hitters a run for their money. If you’re a fan of giallo, this is a must-watch, and I’m here to tell you why.

First off, the premise: a brutal string of murders in which the victims are all killed in a disturbingly specific way—their throats are slit with a sharp instrument, and there’s always a distinct black tarantula left near the crime scene. This isn’t just a run-of-the-mill giallo, though. While the formula might be familiar, director Paolo Cavara (who’s also known for his work on The Week of the Kill) elevates this one with a combination of slick visuals, a killer soundtrack, and a twisty plot that keeps you guessing from start to finish.

Let’s talk about the look of the film—because Black Belly of the Tarantula is absolutely gorgeous. The cinematography here is top-tier. The use of light and shadow is expertly handled, and the whole thing has a sleazy, sexy vibe to it that makes it impossible to look away. The film is beautifully shot, and Cavara knows exactly how to use those visuals to build tension. It’s a perfect blend of style and substance, and every frame feels like it’s dripping with atmosphere.

As for the story, it’s a classic giallo setup: we’ve got a series of mysterious killings, a pair of detectives who are trying to solve the case, and plenty of red herrings along the way. The script is tight and moves at a brisk pace, but it’s the little details that set this one apart. The film is filled with deliciously twisted character dynamics, and you never quite know who to trust. Is the beautiful woman hiding something? Is the detective a little too obsessed with the case? And why the hell is everyone so damn suspicious?

The cast is another standout here. The ever-so-charming Giancarlo Giannini plays the lead detective, and he’s a perfect fit for the role. His performance is restrained but commanding, and you can see the wheels turning as he tries to piece together the mystery. Opposite him, the lovely and always intriguing Claudine Auger (who you may recognize from Thunderball) plays a key role, and she brings a sense of vulnerability to her character that makes her an interesting foil to the colder, more calculating Giannini. These two work well together and keep the tension high as they navigate through the maze of clues and misdirection.

And then there’s the real star of the show: the killings. Black Belly of the Tarantula is brutal and bloody, and those throat-slashing moments are so well-executed that they leave an impression. The violence is graphic, but it never feels over-the-top or gratuitous. Instead, the murders are treated with a sense of clinical precision, and each one feels necessary to move the story forward. This is a giallo where the bloodshed is impactful, not just for shock value.

There’s also the matter of the film’s tone—it’s dark, brooding, and borderline sleazy in the best possible way. It’s a film that revels in its noir-ish atmosphere, giving you that sense of grime and grit while maintaining a cool, almost detached attitude. And let’s not forget the score—Morricone delivers a hauntingly beautiful, yet sinister score here that elevates the entire film. His music adds an extra layer of unease, making even the quiet moments feel tense. It’s another example of how the right soundtrack can make all the difference.

But what really seals the deal for me is the film’s final twist. As with most gialli, the ending is wild, and Cavara delivers one of the genre’s most memorable conclusions. It’s the kind of ending that makes you go back and watch the film again to see how you missed all the clues. And that’s the beauty of giallo, isn’t it? The mystery never really ends. Even after the credits roll, you’re left with that nagging sense of “What did I just watch?” But in the best way possible.

Verdict: Black Belly of the Tarantula is a stylish, brutal, and twisted giallo that deserves to be appreciated by more fans of the genre. With a great cast, a sinister atmosphere, and a tightly woven plot, it’s a film that will keep you hooked from start to finish. It may not be the most well-known giallo out there, but it’s certainly one of the most memorable. If you’re looking for a giallo that’s equal parts sleazy and sophisticated, this one is a no-brainer.