Movie spotlight
Dressed to Kill
Amy is the overworked assistant of fashion mogul, Vanessa Silver. So, it’s a shock when Vanessa tells Amy that she plans to name her as her successor, rather than her party-girl daughter Blair. Even more of a shock is when Vanessa turns up dead the next morning. Learning that Vanessa updated her will to give 90% of the company to Amy and only 10% to Blair, Amy’s boyfriend Kevin is apprehensive about this change, especially as Amy becomes the prime suspect in Vanessa’s mysterious death. As Blair begins to receive threats, Amy fluctuates between thinking the threats are fake and suspecting a disgruntled former employee as the culprit–until Blair is attacked at work, leaving Amy is the culprit in yet another case.
Insights
Plot Summary
A disturbed, transsexual psychiatrist murders a young woman and then stalks her roommate, who witnesses the crime. As the police investigate, they uncover a trail of psychological manipulation and escalating violence.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, 'Dressed to Kill' polarized critics, with some praising De Palma's Hitchcockian direction, suspenseful atmosphere, and stylish visuals, while others condemned its explicit violence and controversial themes. Audiences were also divided, but the film achieved significant commercial success and has since become a cult classic within the slasher and erotic thriller genres.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its suspenseful direction and visual flair.
Criticized for its graphic violence and transphobic undertones.
Considered a prime example of erotic horror and a signature Brian De Palma film.
Google audience: Audience reviews highlight the film's thrilling suspense and stylish direction, with many appreciating its status as a cult classic. However, some viewers express discomfort with the explicit content and the portrayal of certain themes.
Fun Fact
The iconic shower scene in 'Dressed to Kill' was heavily inspired by the famous shower scene in Alfred Hitchcock's 'Psycho'.
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