Once at Night

A young writer, already suffering from a deep-seated phobia, becomes increasingly paranoid when he believes he is being stalked by a mysterious figure. As his grip on reality loosens, he finds himself entangled in a deadly investigation involving a series of gruesome murders, suspecting that his own sanity might be the key to uncovering the truth.

Dario Argento's early giallo film 'Once at Night' is often seen as a precursor to his more iconic works, showcasing his developing visual style and penchant for suspense. While not as polished as his later masterpieces, it is appreciated by genre fans for its atmospheric tension and early displays of Argento's signature violence and intricate plotting.

• Praised for its atmospheric dread and unsettling psychological elements.

• Recognized as an important early work in Dario Argento's career.

• Some critics find the plot occasionally convoluted and less impactful than his later films.

Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce for this lesser-known giallo, but those that exist often point to its effectiveness as an atmospheric thriller and a fascinating entry into Argento's filmography, despite some pacing issues.

This film was originally titled 'The Bird with the Crystal Plumage', but was changed due to a rights dispute and renamed 'Once at Night' for its release.