Murder for Primetime: Fame, Fortune, and Fatalities

Read Time:4 Minute, 31 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The 10th Victim (La decima vittima) (Blu-ray)
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Genre: Action, Comedy, Sci-Fi, Science Fiction, Thriller, Romance
Year Released: 1965, Kino Lorber Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 32m
Director(s): Elio Petri
Writer(s): Robert Sheckley, Tonino Guerra, Giorgio Salvioni, Ennio Flaiano, Elio Petri, Ernesto Gastaldi
Cast: Marcello Mastroianni, Ursula Andress, Elsa Martinelli, Salvo Randone, Massimo Serato, Milo Quesada, George Wang, Luce Bonifassy
Language: Italian and English with English subtitles
Where To Watch: available now, order your copy here: www.kinolorber.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Imagine a world where violence isn't just legal—it's a celebrated spectacle broadcast nightly on primetime TV. THE 10TH VICTIM offers that and more, plunging audiences into a technicolor dystopia that gleefully mocks humanity's obsession with fame, fortune, and bloodlust. Under the playful yet critical eye of directorial eye of Elio Petri, this satirical gem from cinema’s past remains just as relevant today as when it first captivated audiences decades ago.

At the film’s heart is "The Great Hunt," a global sensation designed by the government as a form of population control and entertainment. Participants engage in ten life-or-death rounds, swapping roles between predator and prey. Survival isn't just about staying alive—it’s about becoming a celebrity. Unlike typical dystopian dramas that linger on despair, Petri wisely chooses humor as his weapon, spotlighting the absurdity of our cultural infatuation with violence and consumerism.

Ursula Andress steps into the role of Caroline Meredith, the glamorous American contestant whose calm exterior and strategy underscore her relentless pursuit of celebrity. Her ability to integrate violence into advertising schemes cleverly highlights society's alarming marriage of brutality and commerce. Opposite Andress, Marcello Mastroianni portrays Marcello Polletti, a sly Italian competitor more concerned with survival than outright victory. His performance provides the perfect foil to Andress's polished coldness, creating a captivating dynamic that keeps the viewer engaged.

What elevates THE 10TH VICTIM beyond ordinary satire is its visual style, crafted by cinematographer Gianni Di Venanzo. His vibrant colors and striking compositions transform futuristic Rome into a dazzling stage where sleekness clashes with grandeur. This intentional exaggeration of aesthetics mirrors the hollow values of the depicted society, reinforcing the film's satirical punch.

Complementing these visuals, composer Piero Piccioni delivers a soundtrack oscillating between jazz and electronic beats. His music not only enhances the storytelling but also provides subtle commentary, heightening both the comedic and critical elements of the narrative.

Central to this satirical narrative is the complex relationship between Caroline and Marcello. Their interactions, filled with deceit, flirtation, and manipulation, reflect the superficiality promoted by media-driven relationships. The characters’ inability to establish authentic connections amidst sponsorship deals and public image concerns cleverly underscores how society’s values distort personal relationships. This portrayal helps ground the film’s absurdity, resonating with its social commentary.

Petri’s refusal to conform to standard storytelling conventions makes THE 10TH VICTIM memorable. His fearless blending of satire, dark comedy, romance, and science fiction ensures engagement, even when detours threaten its coherence. The director's experimentation results in an entertaining and thought-provoking film that explores serious issues through absurd, often hilarious scenarios.

While tighter editing might have further amplified the film’s potency, it doesn’t diminish its lasting appeal. Instead, the eccentricities enrich the viewing experience, reflecting the chaotic, contradictory nature of human behavior that Petri sets out to critique. The playful defiance of traditional storytelling expectations contributes significantly to the film’s enduring charm.

In conclusion, THE 10TH VICTIM merges wit, visuals, and social commentary, creating an enjoyable yet insightful experience. Its style, engaging performances, and satire ensure its place among enduring cinema classics. Petri’s work reminds us that beneath all spectacle lies a deeper critique, encouraging audiences to examine their roles in perpetuating the culture the film satirizes—a message just as potent today as ever.

Product Extras:
2K Restoration
NEW Audio Commentary by Film Historians Steve Mitchell and Troy Howarth
Elio Petri – Subject for Further Research: Featurette by Roberta Licurgo with Paola Pegoraro Petri (Wife of Elio Petri) and Author/Film Historian Kim Newman
Theatrical Trailers (Italian & English)
Includes Both Italian and English Audio
Optional English Subtitles

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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