Added 13th September 2023
Review by: Shaun Jackson

The Goldsmith
 

Released in 2023

The Goldsmith (Italian)

​

A trio of desperate criminals break into the isolated country house of an elderly goldsmith and his wife. But their chosen targets turn out to be far less defenceless than they seem.

​

A brief synopsis to say the least, however from the well presented trailer that tantalises the taste buds and given the storied legacy of Italian horror and the time honoured movie trope of unsuspecting victims turning the tables, expectations are high and an epic viewing is surely on the way from "The Goldsmith".

​

The story unfolds around three friends with a shared past. Now adults, the trio Roberto (Vannucci), Stefano (Cimini), and Arianna (Bambaci), conspire to rob the goldsmith, Antonio (Pambieri), and his wife Giovanna (Casini), of precious jewels concealed in a covert workshop at their residence. However, the seemingly unprepared couple have a few surprises up their sleeves.

​

Through a sequence of skilfully rendered flashbacks, the film delves deeper into the protagonists' pasts, offering insights into their motivations and perhaps inviting sympathy for the grim Hostelesque fate awaiting them. The acting is excellent, it is hard to not fall in love with the delightful and mischievous Giovanna, played by the exquisite Stefania Casini (Suspiria 1977). The cinematography, score, and the escalating tension are commendable. Yet, with a duration of just over 89 minutes, the film feels bogged down by prolonged dialogues and lack of action, leading to a somewhat languid pace that might challenge viewers' attentiveness.

​

Moreover, despite the suspense filled atmosphere suggesting impending graphic horror, much of it remains abstract, notably reserved in its use of gore and special effects and too much is left to the imagination of the viewer.

​

The Goldsmith, a worthy watch but a slow burner that doesn't quite catch the eye.

​