Movie review: StageFright: Aquarius

Frustrated with progress of his musical about a mass killer, the stage manager locks his cast inside the theater vowing to practice until they get it right. What none of them realize is that an escaped mental asylum lunatic is locked inside with them.

David Brandon (Peter), Barbara Cupisti (Alicia), Comenico Fiore (Police Chief), Robert Gligorov (Danny), Mickey Knox (Old cop), Giovanni Radice (Brett), Clain Parker (Irving), Loredana Parrella (Corrine).

StageFright: Aquarius is a strange entry level horror flick that seems to focus more on how the story is told than on the story itself. The plot is familiar, somewhat worn, and has more than a few holes. Though the story is horror, the film seems to focus more on the suspense and drama. The result is a serial killer running around wearing a huge owl head for no apparent reason while a bunch of stage actors run around screaming.

Acting was somewhat bland here with Brandon leading the pack and delivering a low energy performance. Some of the main cast did better investing energy in their performances but it wasn't quite enough, leaving the film feeling bland and lacking.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were typical 80's with a mild fake feel and fuzzy camera work. Action scenes were mild throughout. Dialogue was campy, corny, and could have done more to add depth. Sound and soundtrack were mild.

Overall StageFright: Aquarius isn't a bad film, but it isn't a great film nor does it add much to the genre. Fans of foreign films, Italian films, or foreign horror may enjoy this one. For the rest of you, find something more current.

With some violence, mild nudity, and foul language this should be fine for older teens and above.

Released: 1987
Reviewed: 1.8.16
Star rating: 1 out of 5
Genre: Horror, Foreign Horror, Italian Horror, Mystery, Suspense

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel