The original Suspiria (1977), directed by Dario Argento, is a visually stunning masterpiece that stands as one of the greatest horror films ever made. With its dreamlike atmosphere, surreal imagery, and striking use of colour, it feels more like a nightmare brought to life than a conventional horror film. The use of bold reds, blues, and greens combined with Goblin’s haunting score creates an almost hypnotic experience. The plot is simple yet effective—an American ballet student arrives at a prestigious dance academy in Germany, only to uncover something far more sinister lurking beneath the surface. Logic takes a backseat to mood, style, and sheer terror, and the result is an unforgettable horror classic. Argento’s Suspiria is a film that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll, leaving an impression few films can match.
In 2018, Luca Guadagnino took on the daunting task of remaking Suspiria, but instead of trying to replicate Argento’s style, he went in an entirely different direction. The result is a film that is less about colour and surreal horror and more about psychological dread, political themes, and body horror. Gone are the vibrant neon hues and fairy-tale atmosphere—replaced with a cold, muted aesthetic that fits its grim and methodical approach. This version expands on the original’s story, adding deeper character development and historical context, particularly with its 1977 Berlin setting and themes of power and control. Tilda Swinton delivers a fascinating performance in multiple roles, and Thom Yorke’s melancholic score provides an eerie yet entirely different tone compared to Goblin’s bombastic sound.
While the 2018 Suspiria is an ambitious and well-crafted film, it lacks the sheer intensity and visceral energy of the original. Its slow-burn storytelling and extended runtime make it a very different experience—more cerebral but less immediate in its impact. The horror is still there, but it unfolds in a more restrained and calculated manner. Some of its additions work well, while others feel unnecessary or overcomplicated.
Ultimately, both versions have their merits, but Argento’s Suspiria remains the superior film. It is a pure horror experience—bold, nightmarish, and iconic in every way. The remake is a solid reinterpretation that brings new ideas to the table, but it never quite reaches the same level of hypnotic terror.
Winner: Suspiria (1977)
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