Jess Franco’s follow-up to the hypnotic Vampyros Lesbos carries over many of the cast and the director’s singular style.
Following the death of her controversial scientist husband, Soledad Miranda’s character becomes an avenging angel of death, seeking out those who persecuted him and hounded him to commit suicide. Although it’s essentially a rehash of the director’s earlier film The Diabolical Dr Z, Franco revels in its visuals, with cinematographer Manuel Merino excelling in coming up with some sumptuous imagery.
This is Soledad Miranda’s movie, though. She is mesmerising in every scene, adding to the dreamy sensuality even as she enacts her revenge. Severin’s 4K restoration is stunningly beautiful. Despite the pedestrian pace, it pulls you into its stylish and seductive world.
Although not as extra-heavy as the Vampyros Lesbos release, there’s still plenty to enjoy, with another archive interview with Jess Franco and Franco expert Stephen Thrower. It’s also good to see Franco regular Paul Muller getting to say his piece.
