Iguana With the Tongue of Fire

The movie Iguana With the Tongue of Fire, released in 1971, is a thriller that takes place in Dublin, Ireland. The film revolves around the mysterious murders of several young women, all connected to the same family. The case is assigned to Inspector John Norton (Luigi Pistilli) who begins to unravel a complex web of lies and deceit while tracking down the killer.

As Inspector Norton investigates the case, he discovers that the prime suspect is the daughter of the murdered family, who had disappeared years ago. The film takes various twists and turn, as Inspector Norton embarks on a cat and mouse game with the killer. The suspense ratchets up as the murderer targets another member of the family, causing Inspector Norton to race against time to catch the killer.

One intriguing aspect of the movie is the way the film showcases the Irish police force of the 1970s. Inspector Norton’s investigation techniques are outdated by modern standards. However, his character has an endearing quality that makes the viewer root for his success. The way he interacts with the suspects and the community is one of the defining features of the movie.

Other standout performances include Dagmar Lassander, who plays the daughter of the murdered family. She is cold, calculating, and deeply unsettling. Her character is one of the key suspects in the case and her past is complicated, leading Inspector Norton down a convoluted path of clues.

Anton Diffring plays the patriarch of the family and his performance is noteworthy as well. He is gruff, unapologetic, and definitely someone you do not want to mess with. His scenes with Inspector Norton are tense and reveal the strained relationships that exist within the family.

One of the unique features of the movie is the use of locations throughout Dublin. The film takes full advantage of showcasing the landscape, from the streets of the city to the central library. The dark, moody lighting adds to the overall atmospherics of the movie.

Director Riccardo Freda expertly pulls the viewer in with intriguing plot twists and a palpable sense of tension. The murders are shown graphically, making the violence all the more startling. The film masterly delivers an intense, gritty mystery that rivets viewers on every turn.

The Iguana With the Tongue of Fire is a perfect example of a gripping suspense thriller from the early 1970s. The film is notable for its intense atmosphere and expert acting from the lead roles. The movie is a must-watch for fans of the genre and for those that appreciate the unique styles of cinematic storytelling from decades past.

In conclusion, Iguana With the Tongue of Fire is an excellent suspense thriller that showcases the very best of Italian filmmaking from the 1970s. The film is full of tension, twists, and turns that keep the viewer on the edge of their seat. The haunting score and beautiful locations make this movie a classic of the genre. The final act reveals a surprising twist that might surprise viewers, adding to the overall satisfaction of watching this timeless masterpiece.