'Fanatico' is nothing if not a low-budget, hammed up homage in miniature to Dario Argento. The strong emphasis on color in the picture - in lighting, shot composition, wardrobe, and even film locations - make this readily apparent. The music of Rudy Klobas and Carlo Mery plainly imps Italian progressive rock band Goblin, frequent Argento collaborators, with the pervasive synthesizers, reverberating guitars, and driving bass of the score. The camerawork furthers this bent with shots that seem pulled directly from Argento classics: first-person view of the killer's perspective; close-ups of murder weapons or tight shots of a victim being attacked; framed shots. Sparing use of visual effects convey the adrenaline-fueled delirium of the victims, and blood effects are pointedly emphasized. Even the title card and credits, characterizations, and the very premise clearly mimic the giallo maestro.
Is it worth it?
One's engagement with 'Fanatico' will depend solely and entirely on how one views Dario Argento. This short carries the air of a fan film, especially in the somewhat subdued and stilted performances of the cast - though, to be fair, that also in some ways reflects the material this film seeks to honor. The narrative flow feels a little choppy and incohesive, further enforced by the editing. It's quite possible to enjoy this on its own merits, but the film-makers' intent is obvious, and the most receptive audience is beyond doubt.
If you can't get enough of Argento flicks specifically, or the giallo style of horror generally, then 'Fanatico' is 100% for you. Even if not, though, it's still entertaining, and worth checking out if you come across it.
