Is Ænigma - Lucio Fulci and the 80s Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2017)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 2017, Ænigma - Lucio Fulci and the 80s represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the Documentary category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Ænigma: Lucio Fulci and the 80s takes a look into the twilight years of Lucio Fulci, one of Italian cinemas finest craftsmen; lovingly known as the 'Godfather of Gore' by his legion of fans. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Documentary are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Ænigma: Lucio Fulci and the 80s takes a look into the twilight years of Lucio Fulci, one of Italian cinemas finest craftsmen; lovingly known as the 'Godfather of Gore' by his legion of fans."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. While the script occasionally leans into familiar territory, the efforts of Antonio Bido ensure that the emotional beats of Ænigma - Lucio Fulci and the 80s always land with sufficient weight. Antonio Bido provides a steady, reliable performance that anchors the film through its narrative shifts.

The direction by Eugenio Ercolani is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 76 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Ænigma - Lucio Fulci and the 80s truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Documentary, then this is a highly recommended entry that delivers on its promises while offering a few surprises along the way.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 6.5/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Ænigma - Lucio Fulci and the 80s explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2017 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Eugenio Ercolani respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Ænigma - Lucio Fulci and the 80s serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Antonio Bido or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Ænigma - Lucio Fulci and the 80s is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.