Italian film director Lucio Fulci is primarily known for his work in the horror genre, although his filmography has more variety than one would expect given at least one of his nicknames - 'the Godfather of Gore'. Some of his output falls under the 'giallo' umbrella, which is a loose category of Italian cinema that most often features a combination of mystery, thriller, and horror elements, and had its heyday in the 1970's and 80's. Fulci preferred to push further into the territory of supernatural horror, delivering over-the-top gore effects and strong violence. If that sounds like more than you want to get into, I get it! Thankfully, one of his best films would probably be rated PG-13 if released today and is a much better entry point for a beginner interested in horror and mystery genre films from Italy a few decades ago.

Newly married Virginia (Jennifer O'Neill) and Francesco (Gianni Garko) find the start of their happy union upended by an unsettling discovery in their home at the same time that Virginia begins to experience strange, fragmented visions she can't control. Her clairvoyant abilities lead her into a sinister mystery that is plenty creepy without (probably) giving you too many nightmares. While the plot itself may not be the pinnacle of unpredictable narratives, the music, lighting design, wardrobes, and overall vibe are excellent and well worth experiencing. Also known as Murder to the Tune of the Seven Black Notes, this horror/mystery hybrid from 1977 might be the obscure and atmospheric pick your Halloween viewing was missing this year! Check it out on Kanopy.