The House With Windows That Laughed (1976)

Dir: Pupi Avati

A bizarre film that mixes a giallo-style plot with gothic aesthetic and political allegory to unique effect. The story tells of Stefano, a heroically-bearded restoration expert invited to a small and creepy island to work on a painting of St Sebastian that's been uncovered on the wall of their church. Turns out it's by a legendary local artist known as the "Painter of Agony", whose dark and horrible past intertwines with Stefano's present, leading to a shocking and violent denouement. There's a perfectly sinister atmosphere to the film and I defy anyone to see the twist coming (one of the best in any gialli I've seen) but the film is slooooow, so you'll need some patience if you're going to get into it and get the most out of it. On the bright side, no matter how little is happening onscreen, Stefano's ever-stylish array of shirts, ties and sleeveless jumpers should keep you entertained as you "ooh" and "aah" over his wardrobe (all of which he managed to pack in his obviously Tardis-like travel bag). But, seriously, there's so much more to like here if you stick with it. An underrated classic that's well worth checking out. ***