Last Caress

Last Caress never really rises to the occasion and offers much that's new or that we haven't seen before, but what it does offer is a refreshingly simple (and quick) giallo homage. It combines elements of well-loved giallos such as Deep Red, Suspiria/Inferno, Blood and Black Lace, and Torso.

The acting and characterizations are about on par with most giallo films and the lighting and set design are wonderfully lush and colorful. The only drawback is the gauzy, digital look of the photography which can betray the vibe it's going for. The sleaze factor is still there, though, with every female in the cast getting nude at some point and suffering an impossibly violent and cruel death. There are machetes to faces, meat cleavers to fingers, and hooks into heads.

At a brisk 72 minutes, Last Caress never overextends itself and even draws up a little suspense during the last act where there's only one final victim to face the killer and they rip off a section of Torso.

There are definitely better giallos out there, but this one moves well, has a lot of fun moments, and you can feel the passion on the screen.