Movies

Watch Dario Argento’s ‘Phenomena’ Before the TV Remake Hits Screens

BBG News

2025 marks the 40th anniversary for several notable movies. One of these is “Phenomena,” also known as “Creepers,” featuring a young Jennifer Connelly in one of her early lead roles. This film was directed by the Italian horror master, Dario Argento, who gained acclaim throughout the 1970s for his series of successful Giallo thrillers and supernatural horror movies like “Suspiria.” Critics and audiences admired him so much that they started calling him a “garlic-flavored Hitchcock” due to his success. During the 1980s, Argento continued to excel in Giallo with films such as “Tenebrae” and “Opera,” while also diving deeper into the supernatural world with “Inferno.

One intriguing aspect in Dario Argento’s collection of films is “Phenomena” – a work that marked a shift towards a more universally appealing style for American viewers, while still preserving the essence cherished by his devoted fans. The remake of this film, now being handled by the Italian production company Titanus for television, presents an opportunity for both revisiting and discovering it – a perfect moment to delve into or re-immerse in Argento’s unique storytelling.

‘Phenomena’ Has Broader Appeal Than ‘Suspiria’

In the movie Phenomena, Connelly introduces Jennifer Corvino, an American student who moves to attend a distinguished boarding school in Switzerland. Fans familiar with Argento’s work may recognize similarities to his 1977 film Suspiria, where a young American pupil (Jessica Harper) faced challenges at an overseas academy and encountered issues with the headmistress, Madame Blanc (Joan Bennett). Both films share some common elements, but Frau Brückner (Daria Nicolodi) is a more forceful authority figure. Jennifer will later experience episodes of sleepwalking and develop her own telepathic abilities as well as a psychic bond with insects.

As a die-hard fan, I must admit that there are striking similarities between “Phenomena” and “Suspiria,” but let me clarify that “Phenomena” isn’t just a replica of its predecessor. In fact, it caters more to the tastes of American audiences. After his renowned “animal trilogy,” Dario Argento crafted “Phenomena,” a film enriched by the melodious blend of music from progressive rock group Goblin, but it also boasts tracks from Iron Maiden and Motorhead in its soundtrack. What truly resonates with American viewers is the presence of Donald Pleasence as Dr. John McGregor, an entomologist who takes Jennifer under his wing as she delves into her unique psychic connection with insects.

Exploring the Realms of Science and the Supernatural

In Phenomena, we find a blend of a classic murder mystery as several classmates at Jennifer’s school meet an untimely end. Yet, it delves deeper into the intriguing relationship between creatures like animals and humans. A branch of science called entomology, which involves the study of insects, plays a significant role in this narrative, as it helps law enforcement agencies determine the exact time of death by observing when maggots appear on a deceased body. This forensic science is pivotal in Phenomena and becomes even more relevant as Jennifer’s relationship with these insects unfolds.

In the realm of movies, I’d say my favorite flick, “Phenomena,” cleverly blends the realms of science and the unexplainable, creating a fascinating fusion. For instance, McGregor, an entomologist, assists Jennifer in leveraging her unique psychic abilities with insects to unravel the mystery behind the missing students’ bodies. The bond between creatures and humanity is subtly emphasized through McGregor’s special connection with Inga, a chimp who doubles as his caregiver. Argento skillfully ventures off the beaten path of typical thrillers, delving into uncharted territories of telepathy and the enigmatic connections that tie all living beings together.

A Stylistic Flare for the Grandiose and Baroque

As a film enthusiast, Dario Argento’s baroque imagery and distinctive cinematography were always a visual delight. Blending the classic Goblin soundtrack with modern heavy metal acts was a bold step in his artistic evolution. The upcoming TV adaptation of “Phenomena” leaves us wondering if it will follow in Argento’s footsteps or carve its own path, but either way, I can’t wait to see it!

Currently, there are several options for you to watch “Phenomena” at no cost. You can do so on Roku, Tubi, or Plex. Additionally, it is also accessible on Shudder and AMC+ if you have subscriptions with those platforms.

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2025-05-25 03:06

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