Danger Diabolik [VHS]
by Mario Bava
![Danger Diabolik [VHS]](/images/Danger-Diabolik-VHS-6302491932-L.jpg)
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VHS Tape Cover Information
Actor: Adolfo Celi, Claudio Gora, John Phillip Law, Marisa Mell, Michel PiccoliDirector: Mario Bava
Edition: VHS Tape
Audio: English (Unknown)
Format: Closed-captioned, Color, NTSC
Running Time: 99 minutes
Release Date: 1998-11-11
Audience Rating: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Publisher: Paramount
Studio: Paramount
VHS Movie Reviews of Danger Diabolik [VHS]
Movie Review: a delicious fantasy thrill ride . . .
Summary: 4 Stars
Visually striking, fast-paced, atmospheric, and exciting, Mario Bava's Danger: Diabolik (1968) is a delicious, fantasy thrill ride. A Dino de Laurentiis production, based on an Italian comic book series, the cinematic Diabolic is a bold, audacious super crook who with the help of his gorgeous girlfriend Eva Kant, commits the most outrageous of crimes, executed with savage zeal, and fearless efficiency, that leaves the police gasping for breath.
John Phillip Law (Barbarella) is Diabolik, a mysterious figure who typically wears a skintight costume, and ninja style mask that exposes his eyes and eyebrows. Eva, his partner in love and crime, is played by Austrian beauty Marisa Mell. Together they make a sexy and ruthlessly efficient criminal team, gathering in the riches, racing away in a Jaguar, and then reveling in the ecstasy of wealth.
Famed for his creative camera work and use of colors in the horror genre, director Mario Bava does a magnificent job of translating a comic book to the big screen. The editing is reflective of the quick-hitting style of an action comic, with few wasted moments. There isn't much character development, or thoughtful chit chat, the movie is an exhilarating ride, where you figure things out on way. The film is littered with creative and striking visuals. Diabolik's futuristic underground lair is a showcase for Bava's imagination and skill. With the revolving bed, shower, and gold splattered cavern scenes being among the highlights. Danger: Diabolik is like watching a magic show, not every illusion works, and the projection shots appear very dated, but for the most part, it holds your attention.
Diabolik is opposed by Inspector Ginko (Michel Piccoli), a policeman who has the idea to use the underworld as a tool against Diabolik. By tightening the screws on criminal bigwig Ralph Valmont (Aldolfo Celi), he gets his cooperation in a scheme to trap Diabolik. The plan almost works, but Diabolik literally cheats death, and strikes back with a vengeance, at the financial heart of the country. A huge gold ingot next becomes the focus of Diabolik's desire, but this time Ginko may be one step ahead. The film finishes with the door open for Diabolik's return, which unfortunately did not happen.
Although influenced by the Bond films, Q's gadgets, and Ken Adam's lavish designs, Danger: Diabolik has a style all its own, and from all appearances stays true to the original comic book. Diabolik is not out to save the world, but instead wants to rob it blind, and rock the very foundations of society. For fans of the 60's spy genre, crime capers, or dark edged comics, this is a fantasy can easily be appreciated. Ennio Morricone's wonderful score, makes a big contribution to the film's atmosphere and vibe.
The widescreen presentation has a commentary track featuring John Phillip Law, and film historian Tim Lucas. The commentary is informative, with Lucas covering various technical aspects and obscure items, and Law occasionally speaking about his remembrances. The very illuminating documentary, 'Danger: Diabolik - From Fumetti To Film', puts the film in perspective, and reveals how much of the plot was actually adapted by Bava, from the original Italian fumetti (comics). The Beastie Boys' music video for Body Movin', pays homage to the film, and is also included. A couple of trailers round out the extras.
Summary of Danger Diabolik [VHS]
Master criminal Diabolik's got it all. He's got a black leather suit and ski mask, a pair of Jaguar XKEs, gadgets galore, an underground headquarters, and of course the ravishing Eva (played by Sixties Euro-hottie Marisa Mell). Together, the two of them pull off daring capers, staying a step or two ahead of the police, the government and rival mobsters all the while. Think the Sixties Batman TV series, James Bond, Barbarella, Matt Helm, and even a bit of Austin Powers for this distinctly Sixties crime romp. Director Mario Bava, as usual, made the most out of a less-than-lavish budget, with wild sets, an Ennio Morricone score, striking photography, and a psychedelic-soaked feel all the way around, with Bava's trademark camera work making it a visual delight in many scenes. Terry-Thomas comes in as a bumbling government official (the scene where his press conference is disrupted by Diabolik's "exhilarating gas" is a classic). It's all very tongue-in-cheek fun, based as it is on a comic book from the period. John Phillip Law, of course, is no better than he ever is as the rather fey master criminal, passing off his wooden performance as "stoic", but it works. Unlike contemporaries like Bond, though, Diabolik eschews the swinging Sixties life for a happily monogamous relationship with Eva (who wouldn't?). This is some goofy brain candy that's perfect for an evening of Sixties-retro fun. --Jerry RenshawAction & Adventure VHS Video
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