Cast
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Crew
Director
- Duccio Tessari
Producer
- Luciano Martino
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This Thriller/Crime/Mystery/Horror film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. Puzzle presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director Duccio Tessari brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1974, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Puzzle took approximately 20 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 92 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 121 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1309 individual shots.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1974, when this film was released:
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Puzzle shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Chinatown, which focuses more on action than character development, Puzzle subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Who Framed Roger Rabbit and Mystic River explore similar territory, Puzzle stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: August 23, 1974
- Runtime: 1h 32m
Where to Watch
