In a small Italian village, young boys are being murdered. The motive is unknown, and all signs point to the work of a true madman. As the investigation unfolds, more and more suspects emerge, making it a race to uncover the real killer behind these horrific crimes.
As with most giallo films, the title of this one is completely misleading—it has nothing to do with ducklings or torture. Instead, this is a classic murder mystery told in true Italian giallo fashion.
Lucio Fulci explored many genres, from westerns and comedies to splatter films, and this time, we have one of his giallo works. While he is best known for his more gruesome films such as The Beyond, Zombie Flesh Eaters, and House by the Cemetery, I personally wish he had spent more time in the giallo genre. In this film, Fulci demonstrates an impressive level of craftsmanship, with a unique directorial style and an atmosphere that perfectly embodies what giallo is all about.
Though the film has a slightly slow start, it does an excellent job of introducing its various characters, and the suspense builds masterfully toward a fantastic climax. Visually, the film is stunningly shot and unmistakably Italian—a dynamic mix of Sergio Leone and Mario Bava, yet with Fulci’s own distinctive touch that makes it a compelling watch. Several elements used here would later appear in his other films, including the infamous “chain scene,” which was so effective that he reused it in The Beyond.
There’s very little to criticize about this film. The actors deliver excellent performances—even the child actors hold their own. The characters are well-developed, each with a distinct personality, making them easy to differentiate and interpret. Riz Ortolani’s score is also solid, though he has created more impactful compositions elsewhere.
All in all, this is one of the finest giallo films ever made and undoubtedly one of Fulci’s best works. To quote Dario Argento himself:
“One of Lucio Fulci’s best films and a superb giallo.”
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