It was obviously very low budget, but I think the director shows promise. The actors need to work on their authenticity (with the exception of Faye Dunnaway). The storyline was pretty intriguing, although predictable for someone that's watched a lot of movies. However, I like the fact that the story actually comes to a conclusion of some sort, although some editing at the end would have been beneficial. I can't stand movies that just sort of fizzle out with no sense of completion, so I applaud the director for picking a decent story that actually ends at a logical point. It's also nice to see a woman of apparent Indian decent in a lead role.
22 Reviews
Faye Dunaway is the best part of this movie and that ain't saying much
aztrshbyz7 July 2017
Warning: Spoilers
I don't know where to even begin with this.
On the one hand, although the concept is not new, it was taken further than some other movies I've seen and almost everything makes sense by the end. I had a lot of issues with what led up to the end, but in the whole scheme of things, most of it comes together. Some of the more artistic scenes are interesting as well.
That being said, this film suffers from really bad acting with the exception of two characters. The worst offender is the lead - my understanding is that Ms. Kingsley wrote and directed the movie, however, an actress she is not. It mas a mistake on her part to cast herself in the title role - she comes off as ridiculous and even after it is all said and done, is not believable at all. She has as much depth as a 5 minute rain puddle.
There are some sex scenes written into the film which felt quite contrived and caused me to do nothing but roll my eyes. Those were badly acted as well with the primary culprit again being Ms. Kingsley. They didn't really add to the story either - as many reviewers have mentioned, it appears Ms. Kingsley thinks that those particular scenes would either save the movie or make it relevant or cool and/or that she's quite the hottie. No on all counts.
There are also some badly written sections in the film - I could forgive those if they weren't so badly acted.
So the bottom line is that even Faye Dunaway can't save this movie. I think it had the potential to be better than what it was, but the fact that the director and writer of the movie thought she had the chops to manage the title role ruined it for me. If you are looking for an example of how not to handle a dramatic role that requires some depth, this movie is for you. If not, you better pass.
On the one hand, although the concept is not new, it was taken further than some other movies I've seen and almost everything makes sense by the end. I had a lot of issues with what led up to the end, but in the whole scheme of things, most of it comes together. Some of the more artistic scenes are interesting as well.
That being said, this film suffers from really bad acting with the exception of two characters. The worst offender is the lead - my understanding is that Ms. Kingsley wrote and directed the movie, however, an actress she is not. It mas a mistake on her part to cast herself in the title role - she comes off as ridiculous and even after it is all said and done, is not believable at all. She has as much depth as a 5 minute rain puddle.
There are some sex scenes written into the film which felt quite contrived and caused me to do nothing but roll my eyes. Those were badly acted as well with the primary culprit again being Ms. Kingsley. They didn't really add to the story either - as many reviewers have mentioned, it appears Ms. Kingsley thinks that those particular scenes would either save the movie or make it relevant or cool and/or that she's quite the hottie. No on all counts.
There are also some badly written sections in the film - I could forgive those if they weren't so badly acted.
So the bottom line is that even Faye Dunaway can't save this movie. I think it had the potential to be better than what it was, but the fact that the director and writer of the movie thought she had the chops to manage the title role ruined it for me. If you are looking for an example of how not to handle a dramatic role that requires some depth, this movie is for you. If not, you better pass.
We are all here for you
nogodnomasters5 July 2017
Warning: Spoilers
We get a clue as to what is going on from the name "Fugazzi" aka fugazi meaning fake or wrong...something I also confuse with Fugawi (tribe) derived from the same root words. The doctor (October Kingsley) is "too young" to be a doctor and her abnormal patients claim they are there for her. Fugazzi suffers from hallucinations derived from her patient's abnormalities.
Nothing much to see here. October Kingsley did a good job on a terribly scripted role. Faye Dunaway must have owed someone a favor to be in this one. The seduction scene is in the outtakes.
Guide: F-word, sex, and nudity
Nothing much to see here. October Kingsley did a good job on a terribly scripted role. Faye Dunaway must have owed someone a favor to be in this one. The seduction scene is in the outtakes.
Guide: F-word, sex, and nudity
Horrible, Horrible, Horrible
manansanghvi18 February 2010
They should have rules here at IMDb that people who've made the films shouldn't add reviews, because any review that gives this film higher than 1 star (mind you there's no option for zero)....has got to be someone from the movie cast and crew, most probably the self obsessed director/actor. There are a lot of good low budget movies out there, so the budget wasn't the issue here. I'm no expert here but I could have acted a whole lot better than some of them actors...if I had agreed to work on such a ridiculous script. It is highly likely that Faye Dunnaway had no clue what she was getting into when she agreed to do this movie. All in all, stay away. Don't fall for the film cover.
Narcissistic crap.
cheesenwine7920 July 2010
The director of this little picture sure has her eye on the prize, as she casts Faye Dunaway as a gawky, awkward psychologist. Good one dear, this is just stupid, narcissistic crap. It's just an excuse for the writer and director, a rich kid, to put herself on screen and go crazy in an attempt to show how good an actress she thinks she is. She also believes that she has what it takes to bring about shock value in the tradition of 70s B flicks. Again, not going to happen here. Al we have is a student project that cries for attention because it's director cries for some status quo she will not get. Not like this anyway. Get outta town Kingsley. Your film SUCKs-SUX-SUKS-SUCS! You know what that means? It means it is not good!!! It's BAD-AVOID LIKE THE PLAGUE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Not even a B movie!
nmlal6810 May 2009
One of the worst movies I have ever seen. I really cannot understand why some people here are writing wonders about it. I ask myself what kind of movies they are used to.
To make it short, Kingsley is not only a very poor screenplay writer, but also a very bad actress and an even worse director. There is no rhythm, no energy, no wit, no will. Everything is so poor that you might think the whole project was intended to be a practical joke all along. Overall acting is bellow what could be accepted in a B movie, except of course, for Faye Dunaway, always a great lady on the screen. In fact, when Kingsley acts alone with her, she seems to improve a little bit. My question is... what was Dunaway doing, mingling with that mediocre crowd??? Difficult to understand...
Keep away from this piece of trash! There is no other way to describe it.
To make it short, Kingsley is not only a very poor screenplay writer, but also a very bad actress and an even worse director. There is no rhythm, no energy, no wit, no will. Everything is so poor that you might think the whole project was intended to be a practical joke all along. Overall acting is bellow what could be accepted in a B movie, except of course, for Faye Dunaway, always a great lady on the screen. In fact, when Kingsley acts alone with her, she seems to improve a little bit. My question is... what was Dunaway doing, mingling with that mediocre crowd??? Difficult to understand...
Keep away from this piece of trash! There is no other way to describe it.
My previous review deleted, I am trying to be indulgent
alexgriffith1988121 September 2011
Okay, my previous review was deleted by IMDb based on an abuse report filed by another user. Good, are you the director of this crap? The movie is mediocre and I'm not the only one to think it is an awful movie.
I will try to be indulgent.
This isn't just an incredibly bad movie, it is truly the worst film ever made. The director has graduated to being a terrible director, a terrible actress and a terrible writer. The script is a nightmare of crass and student dialogues.
I can forgive Faye Dunaway. She starred in Bonnie and Clyde, won an Oscar and is now reduced to do this dog in order to raise money for her own film as director. She is the only actor of the movie.
I've been indulgent.
I will try to be indulgent.
This isn't just an incredibly bad movie, it is truly the worst film ever made. The director has graduated to being a terrible director, a terrible actress and a terrible writer. The script is a nightmare of crass and student dialogues.
I can forgive Faye Dunaway. She starred in Bonnie and Clyde, won an Oscar and is now reduced to do this dog in order to raise money for her own film as director. She is the only actor of the movie.
I've been indulgent.
Contrived tired old clichés wrapped in softcore cellophane
fnem698 April 2009
I approach the film with much anticipation, given the hype - not least in IMDb postings and the tag-PR spin to most of us- A strange, twisted psycho-sexual thriller depicting one woman's depraved descent into madness and mayhem!!!! The opening scenes however, proved the harbinger of what was to come – in a nutshell, a college project, which didn't quite make the grade. The script and visual narrative were awash with poorly assembled clichés masquerading as 'weird'! The transparent script was trumped by Kingsley horrendous acting ability - I have routinely seen more depth and substance in undergraduate theatre. As is often the case, and vain attempt was made to spice up the incoherent, pretentious and contrived script, extremely poor acting and direction with sexual imagery - in the hope that scenes of bondage, s & M, group sex, etc. might save the day. Alas, not even the renowned Ms Dunaways could deliver the kiss of life to this astonishing assembly of nonsense.
astonishingly bad
paulfergz9 April 2009
I have rarely seen such an awful film as this one. Its one redeeming feature is that from time to time the cinematography is "quite" nice. Otherwise, it's utterly terrible. The dialogue, well, what can you say? I don't think I can come up with enough negative superlatives to evoke how cliché-ridden and quite frankly wooden (something that complements the acting) the script is. It's the kind of script that you can complete in your head before the lines are delivered.
As with someone who commented above, I only made it to the end because I thought that maybe, just maybe, 'normality' would be presented with a complete shift of both the dialogue and the cinematic tone. This was about the only justification I could think of as to why the rest of it was so bad. But oh no, that idea had obviously not occurred to anyone involved in actually making the film. Did no one tell the writer/director/star of this appalling example of film that the whole thing was a disaster? I'd be interested in meeting representatives of the companies that funded this venture because I have a little proposition for them.
Meanwhile, avoid this shockingly bad film at all costs - even the apparently sexy October K blows it by thinking herself super-sexy
As with someone who commented above, I only made it to the end because I thought that maybe, just maybe, 'normality' would be presented with a complete shift of both the dialogue and the cinematic tone. This was about the only justification I could think of as to why the rest of it was so bad. But oh no, that idea had obviously not occurred to anyone involved in actually making the film. Did no one tell the writer/director/star of this appalling example of film that the whole thing was a disaster? I'd be interested in meeting representatives of the companies that funded this venture because I have a little proposition for them.
Meanwhile, avoid this shockingly bad film at all costs - even the apparently sexy October K blows it by thinking herself super-sexy
Simply put: AWFUL
Aka_Who9 April 2009
Warning: Spoilers
Well, this movie sounded interesting enough at least. A few uniquely shot visually askew scenes were appealing to the eye. Other than that this film was a complete train wreck. The video quality rivaled that of a poorly shot home movie. The story felt desperate to be unique and tried just a little too hard which only proved to counter-act the feel it was going for. This whole project came across as a hyper self indulgent experiment for the writer-actor-director October Kingsley. I think she honestly thought she was sexy in this movie *shivers*. The acting abilities of Kingsley and most others involved was nothing short of atrocious. All I can say is avoid this one at all costs. -PGDGM-
DR. FUGAZZI - Reviews - An Interesting, Intelligent, Little Gem
purplebutterflies3616 August 2007
I'm not sure how to really describe or categorize "Dr. Fugazzi" because in many subtle and not-so subtle ways this film almost takes a perverse pleasure in defying categorization. My husband and I were first eager to see this film at Cannes because we heard that Faye Dunaway was in it, and naturally being huge Dunaway fans, we were anticipating an interesting performance from the legendary actress. Well as it turns out, Dunaway is not really the driving force in this film... I mean don't get me wrong, Dunaway does a phenomenal job in the movie, portraying the enigmatic and elusive "Detective Rowland", a character who may or may not be entirely what she seems. But then again, playing with reality is what this film is all about... that is to say, none of the characters are really what they appear to be; and the beautiful surface reality of the film cleverly toys with the more sinister and ghastly Truth about the main character "Dr. Anna Fugazzi", portrayed skillfully by the hauntingly attractive October Kingsley (who interestingly enough also directs this film). The creative and quirky process by which Anna Fugazzi's "Truth" is revealed is the central thrust of this film.
It would be wrong to define "Dr. Fugazzi" as a psychological thriller because in truth the film encompasses a lot of different genres... psychological thriller, dark comedy, horror, adult drama, fantasy. Ideally, "Dr. Fugazzi" can probably be best described as an experimental, fantasy-thriller... strangely reminiscent of Stanley Kubrick's "A Clockwork Orange" and Polanski's "Repulsion". It is important to note that there is nothing even remotely "normal" about this distinctly art-house film... the directing style is boldly unique and fearlessly peculiar, the dialogue is crisp and darkly provocative, the characters are all colorfully eccentric in their earnestness (among them, a pedophile with a little dog who utters cryptic warnings to Anna Fugazzi, a devil-costumed entertainment lawyer who runs around chasing his neighbor with a lawn mower, and a vicodin-munching musician obsessed with roast chicken). Moreover, the film's production design and costumes are bright, original and over-the-top... all of which sharply complements the film's bold, ferocious style.
It should be noted that there are some scenes in this movie that are so disturbingly memorable that you almost want to see it again just to be sure that you in fact witnessed it the first time around. I won't go into any specific details, but certainly the "broom rape" scene has got to be one of the most hilarious and most shocking scenes in the movie!! Squeamish heterosexual men, Beware!!! Clearly, "Dr. Fugazzi" is a strange and quirky movie that delights in being different from the typically mainstream American film. It is totally unapologetic in it's weirdness, and in many respects, you get the uncanny feeling that the filmmaker is laughing at the audiences' shocked and confused response. I was surprised to discover that the filmmaker (October Kingsley) is American because the film has such an international, Fellini-esquire quality to it. Aside from Kubrick's "A Clockwork Orange", the closest contemporary American film that most resembles "Dr. Fugazzi" in style, language, and content is the David Lynch film "Blue Velvet". Lots of incongruous, darkly thematic material bubbling under the surface, just waiting to be unleashed onto the world.
With all that being said, here are the pros and the cons of "Dr. Fugazzi" in my opinion: The Pros: A very creative, entertaining experiment into the art of film-making. A totally insane film. Definitely worth a look if you enjoy weird, art-house-type films that defy the restrictive boundaries of contemporary, mainstream American films. Also, lots of perverse, wacky humor and sexually suggestive material that will rattle your delicate sensibilities for days to come. The Cons: If you're NOT a big fan of the weirdness of David Lynch or the risqué playfulness of Stanley Kubrick, then you will probably not like this movie or understand it's stylistic content. In order to truly appreciate this movie, you need to think outside the box and dispel any preconceived notions that you might have regarding films and film-making... otherwise you'll be offended and confused by the film's style, content, and subject matter (probably much to the great delight of the filmmaker).
It would be wrong to define "Dr. Fugazzi" as a psychological thriller because in truth the film encompasses a lot of different genres... psychological thriller, dark comedy, horror, adult drama, fantasy. Ideally, "Dr. Fugazzi" can probably be best described as an experimental, fantasy-thriller... strangely reminiscent of Stanley Kubrick's "A Clockwork Orange" and Polanski's "Repulsion". It is important to note that there is nothing even remotely "normal" about this distinctly art-house film... the directing style is boldly unique and fearlessly peculiar, the dialogue is crisp and darkly provocative, the characters are all colorfully eccentric in their earnestness (among them, a pedophile with a little dog who utters cryptic warnings to Anna Fugazzi, a devil-costumed entertainment lawyer who runs around chasing his neighbor with a lawn mower, and a vicodin-munching musician obsessed with roast chicken). Moreover, the film's production design and costumes are bright, original and over-the-top... all of which sharply complements the film's bold, ferocious style.
It should be noted that there are some scenes in this movie that are so disturbingly memorable that you almost want to see it again just to be sure that you in fact witnessed it the first time around. I won't go into any specific details, but certainly the "broom rape" scene has got to be one of the most hilarious and most shocking scenes in the movie!! Squeamish heterosexual men, Beware!!! Clearly, "Dr. Fugazzi" is a strange and quirky movie that delights in being different from the typically mainstream American film. It is totally unapologetic in it's weirdness, and in many respects, you get the uncanny feeling that the filmmaker is laughing at the audiences' shocked and confused response. I was surprised to discover that the filmmaker (October Kingsley) is American because the film has such an international, Fellini-esquire quality to it. Aside from Kubrick's "A Clockwork Orange", the closest contemporary American film that most resembles "Dr. Fugazzi" in style, language, and content is the David Lynch film "Blue Velvet". Lots of incongruous, darkly thematic material bubbling under the surface, just waiting to be unleashed onto the world.
With all that being said, here are the pros and the cons of "Dr. Fugazzi" in my opinion: The Pros: A very creative, entertaining experiment into the art of film-making. A totally insane film. Definitely worth a look if you enjoy weird, art-house-type films that defy the restrictive boundaries of contemporary, mainstream American films. Also, lots of perverse, wacky humor and sexually suggestive material that will rattle your delicate sensibilities for days to come. The Cons: If you're NOT a big fan of the weirdness of David Lynch or the risqué playfulness of Stanley Kubrick, then you will probably not like this movie or understand it's stylistic content. In order to truly appreciate this movie, you need to think outside the box and dispel any preconceived notions that you might have regarding films and film-making... otherwise you'll be offended and confused by the film's style, content, and subject matter (probably much to the great delight of the filmmaker).
Terrible Garbage
rosscosjunk5 April 2009
Definitely worth a look if you enjoy weird (stuff that makes NO SENSE at all), art-house-type films (shaky camera work and terrible acting) that defy the restrictive boundaries of contemporary, mainstream American films (in other words, it's so bad, there are NO WORDS IN THE English DICTIONARY TO DESCRIBE exactly how bad it is). Also, lots of perverse, wacky humour and sexually suggestive material (yep, when all else fails - revert to boobs and bottoms) that will rattle your delicate sensibilities for days to come (I've already forgotten about it - the only thing I'm wondering is why someone/ANYONE! would waste their time, let alone their money to watch it). Please DO NOT compare this movie to ANY movie (original or not) from Directors Lynch and Kubrick. It's like comparing J.K. Rowling to William Shakespeare. (In fact, not even that close).
Stupid and pointless
karrybelle5 April 2009
Warning: Spoilers
While I have many issues with this movie due to its bad acting, unbelievable story and obviously not researched regarding an "alternative live style" it was just stupid. The only reason why I watched it to the end was to see if the end would be more realistic since it would actually be the "waking" self part. It was just as bad.
Yes, you have to keep in mind that everything about the story is from a complete lunatic's view (that much is easy to figure out) but there was so much that was pointless. I don't see how the sexual parties fit in. And unless the girl was a pedophile herself or she was sexually molested by her parents or whatever I don't see how that "patient" of hers fit in. Nor the kleptomania kid. The old professor only made sense in that the cane he had she actually used to kill her mother with. But the rest just didn't make any sense since they were suppose to some how be a part of her.
Don't waste your time on this one.
Yes, you have to keep in mind that everything about the story is from a complete lunatic's view (that much is easy to figure out) but there was so much that was pointless. I don't see how the sexual parties fit in. And unless the girl was a pedophile herself or she was sexually molested by her parents or whatever I don't see how that "patient" of hers fit in. Nor the kleptomania kid. The old professor only made sense in that the cane he had she actually used to kill her mother with. But the rest just didn't make any sense since they were suppose to some how be a part of her.
Don't waste your time on this one.
Too amateur ...
naderq-15 April 2009
This movie may be worth watching by a group of film-making students to learn NOT to do to make a fool of themselves. I cannot believe that such movies even find their way to a DVD version. It could be on YouTube for free and nobody watch more than 5 minutes of it. A total waste of time and your brain attention .... Try to avoid it even if you are offered to watch it for free. You could walk and get some fresh air rather than torture your mind with this. How does this even qualify as a movie?!I think the story should have been read by a psychologist first. It is so unrealistic, so childish, so silly. I would rather stop writing comments if I was not forced to fill ten lines to complete the comment procedure. Isn't it enough yet? Please don't make such movies, ever again. Why do you waste resources? You could save some carbon by not working on this piece ...
Inside The Crazy World Of Dr. Fugazzi
james-ivy709 April 2009
Let's just say it right here and now: This film is a visual feast for the eyes. I don't care if you love it or hate it, you simply can't take away that fact. "The Seduction of Dr. Fugazzi" is an original debauchery of a film. It is about as far from the forgettable fluff of mainstream Hollywood cinema as you can get, and as weird as it is, it strikes a chord deep in the human psyche. I don't think anyone could experience this film without being affected in some way, either extreme love or extreme hate. This beautiful, experimental, visual feast comes as close to depicting a surreal dream as any non-Hollywood film ever could, and maybe ever will! This film is not really a typical movie in the sense that it resembles a surreal work of art in its own right. The strange characters and the settings are unforgettable, and are as strange as they are familiar. The story is slow-moving, but steadily builds with the fury of a small hurricane. The film walks a tightrope somewhere between the reality of the world we know, and a horrific reality that we would much rather not deal with. How vivid is your imagination and how open-minded are you to experience the world of Dr. Fugazzi? These are some of the questions the viewer needs to ask before they even begin watching the film. October Kingsley is a fine example of a film maker who isn't afraid to take huge risks, and the fact that legendary actress Faye Dunaway agreed to do this film is proof of that. That's how cult masterpieces are made.
A Wild, Fantastic Ride - Troma Has Done It Once Again...
smittensight6 April 2009
This film was released by Troma Entertainment, and I loved every strange minute of it! It is a wild, fantastic ride of sex, perversion, domination, and good times at a mental institution. Yes, it's weird, blatantly shocking, and filled with all kinds of gratuitous sex and fantasy type symbolism. Well, what did you expect from a Troma release? This is a very, very eccentric movie filled equally eccentric characters! I thoroughly enjoyed all the craziness, though it's definitely not for everyone and the ending is a little predictable (but very amusing). It's a very "art-house" film, but I love the genre and the style of the film.
Faye Dunaway delivered another great performance and so did October Kingsley, though she is in almost every scene. I got a signed copy of the DVD so I am very pleased!! I will be spending many happy nights with the DVD trying to figure out exactly what the hell it all means in the true Freudian sense of the word.
Faye Dunaway delivered another great performance and so did October Kingsley, though she is in almost every scene. I got a signed copy of the DVD so I am very pleased!! I will be spending many happy nights with the DVD trying to figure out exactly what the hell it all means in the true Freudian sense of the word.
A Very Strange Film - Loved Every Minute Of It
gubermax6 April 2009
This a very peculiar, crazy, little film. It was released by Troma, and rightly so. It is remarkably similar to some of the works of David Lynch. There is a lot of provocative visual images, dream sequences that make sense if you're not expecting it to, and some very entertaining characters that run around with all sorts of "issues".
I would have to agree with the first comment on here. You are either gonna love or hate this film. It is perfect for all Troma fans, and viewers of alternative media and counter-culture cult film fans. There is a decidedly original flair and style to the film that I think cult fans will appreciate and Faye Dunaway fans will love seeing the aging actress in good form. The story itself and the way it unfolds through sex, fantasy, and symbolism is quite fascinating, and I daresay, it might be a little bit more intelligent than most American audiences are used to getting from their movies. After watching the film on-line, I purchased it for my own personal collection. It's a perfect movie for parties and European fetish orgies.
I would have to agree with the first comment on here. You are either gonna love or hate this film. It is perfect for all Troma fans, and viewers of alternative media and counter-culture cult film fans. There is a decidedly original flair and style to the film that I think cult fans will appreciate and Faye Dunaway fans will love seeing the aging actress in good form. The story itself and the way it unfolds through sex, fantasy, and symbolism is quite fascinating, and I daresay, it might be a little bit more intelligent than most American audiences are used to getting from their movies. After watching the film on-line, I purchased it for my own personal collection. It's a perfect movie for parties and European fetish orgies.
Hope to see more from October Kinglsey
CoKeen10 April 2009
The camera angle, the light, primarily one performer - I rather had the impression I was watching a piece of theater. If you're not attracted by the actress, if you don't enjoy watching her, it will not work for you. For me it did, moreover, it felt like I attended the rise of a great talent.
The story is about lunatics, this easily attracts my interest. On my ranking list "Shining" pins the lower end opposing the Belgian "Calvaire" which I guess is hard to beat. David Lynch was mentioned here, but that's something different, though if you can enjoy his movies you're more likely enjoy this one too, rather than if you waiting for the next "Saw" sequel.
The story is about lunatics, this easily attracts my interest. On my ranking list "Shining" pins the lower end opposing the Belgian "Calvaire" which I guess is hard to beat. David Lynch was mentioned here, but that's something different, though if you can enjoy his movies you're more likely enjoy this one too, rather than if you waiting for the next "Saw" sequel.
Ultra Weird and Ultra Cult
catherine-wilshire9 April 2009
This is a typical ultra-weird cult movie, surreal to a fault and filled with incredible, off-putting images and really funny dialogue. It is October Kingsley's first feature length film. Unfortunately, the film itself reeks of experimental cinema, which in plain English means that the movie is definitely not for all tastes. It is fascinating to watch, but it never escapes the "student project" mentality. In fact, if this was a film made by a student, I would have given it A+, but as a commercial enterprise this movie deserves a C+. The movie provides food for the intellect (after all, the movie takes us inside the main character's mind), with lots of symbolism and sub-texual surrealism. I admire the film's boldness, but I surely did not enjoy this film much. Still, it is a must-see movie if you're a fan of cult cinema. Kingsley is a fascinating filmmaker/actor, both on and off screen. Hopefully, her next project will be more commercial and less "experimental". I just found this film a little too strange and a little too provocative. However, the film indeed has a challenging and original style to it. The un-rated DVD version is amazing though, with some interesting behind the scenes information and tidbits regarding Faye Dunaway and the other actors.
A Beautiful, Mesmerizing Piece of Cinema
laurent_brian13 April 2009
Sex on film is potentially used as a means of revealing the lightest or the darkest traits of an individual character, primarily, vulnerability, instinct, sadism, and impulse. The Seduction Of Dr. Fugazzi is a good example of a movie using such a controversial dynamic. This is not a film that is going to be easily appreciated. Likewise, this is not a film that is going to be easily forgotten. In time, this film is going to become a timeless, cult classic filled with controversy, affection, and repulsion. It is a surreal vision demanding attention, if not praise.
Set around the life of Dr. Anna Fugazzi, the film is a dark, sensuous mystery involving the doctor's deranged patients, her masochistic boyfriend, and her colorful friends. The film's beautiful but detached surrealism reminds us that we are not immune to the disturbing events which lurk just beneath the surface. There is a darker side of life waiting for us all. And as a French critic recently said "you either think it's dementedly bizarre or a head-trip to nowhere". This film is dangerously imposing, tempered only by the filmmaker's willingness to push all acceptable boundaries, and yet still remain in control.
This movie has a lot of so-called "masterpiece elements" to it. First of all, the way October Kingsley makes The Seduction of Dr. Fugazzi increasingly disturbing is a perfect example of how pristine the dynamics of weirdness and tension are built. Through this process, Ms. Kingsley indeed deconstructs the audience expectations. The film's setting and mood are introduced in an exposition lifted directly from older film-noirs. The film is initially expected to follow a particular path. The way Ms. Kingsley associates and intermingles elements of classic narrative methodology and the "dynamics of noir" appears to be original at worst and "avant gardiste" at best.
Second of all, the opposition between the creepiness of the plot/characters and the beautiful setting of the film is definitely for me a masterpiece element. Ms. Kingsley succeeds in the masterful exercise of controlling the audience's attention through shock, awe, and crass humor. Most of us will not quite know what to make of this film and we can disagree on the value of such a cinematic experience. However, audacious, erotic, disturbing, haunting are adjectives that will always be linked with "The Seduction of Dr. Fugazzi". The cult genre has just been re-invented by the young Ms. Kingsley and right in front of our very own eyes.
Set around the life of Dr. Anna Fugazzi, the film is a dark, sensuous mystery involving the doctor's deranged patients, her masochistic boyfriend, and her colorful friends. The film's beautiful but detached surrealism reminds us that we are not immune to the disturbing events which lurk just beneath the surface. There is a darker side of life waiting for us all. And as a French critic recently said "you either think it's dementedly bizarre or a head-trip to nowhere". This film is dangerously imposing, tempered only by the filmmaker's willingness to push all acceptable boundaries, and yet still remain in control.
This movie has a lot of so-called "masterpiece elements" to it. First of all, the way October Kingsley makes The Seduction of Dr. Fugazzi increasingly disturbing is a perfect example of how pristine the dynamics of weirdness and tension are built. Through this process, Ms. Kingsley indeed deconstructs the audience expectations. The film's setting and mood are introduced in an exposition lifted directly from older film-noirs. The film is initially expected to follow a particular path. The way Ms. Kingsley associates and intermingles elements of classic narrative methodology and the "dynamics of noir" appears to be original at worst and "avant gardiste" at best.
Second of all, the opposition between the creepiness of the plot/characters and the beautiful setting of the film is definitely for me a masterpiece element. Ms. Kingsley succeeds in the masterful exercise of controlling the audience's attention through shock, awe, and crass humor. Most of us will not quite know what to make of this film and we can disagree on the value of such a cinematic experience. However, audacious, erotic, disturbing, haunting are adjectives that will always be linked with "The Seduction of Dr. Fugazzi". The cult genre has just been re-invented by the young Ms. Kingsley and right in front of our very own eyes.
Dont believe all those negative reviews, those people hate Troma..
hakasap26 January 2018
Rating is : 9.4/10 (not a whole ten, few shots could hve been done a bit better )
October Kingsley Biography Mini Bio : October Kingsley is an actress, film producer, and director. She has been rated as one of Hollywood's top emerging film producers and actresses. Ms. Kingsley made her feature film acting and directorial debut with "The Seduction of Dr. Fugazzi", co-starring opposite Hollywood legend and Oscar winner Faye Dunaway. In addition to acting, producing, and directing films, Ms. Kingsley is also a " successful commercial and music video director ". Ms. Kingsley " graduated from UCLA with a double major in Philosophy and Psychology " . She is " currently working on several upcoming feature films and television show Projects ".
Attended the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco, California. Graduated from UCLA with a double Major in Philosophy and Psychology. Directed, produced and wrote her first feature film. Co-starred alongside academy-award winner Faye Dunaway.
What i have to say: This is a very powerful female and she knows what shes doing, by writing bad reviews you just proof how dumb you are, everyone can see it for himself what kind of movie and how great executed, even Faye Dunaway choosed to act along after she read the script, you idiots who write bad reviews know it better?? Definetly not, this is absolutely a masterpiece, its way better as all those Hollywood crap movies, those bad movie reviews are coming from assholes who grow up with Hollywood and Disney illuminati diarrhea, crap Star Wars and Marvel bullshit, this movie here is greatness, dumb idiots sure wont like it, but thats your fault for being dumb, if you dont like such a great movie, then at least shut your trap and piss off, you destroy peoples life with your lies, no matter this idiotic review from another user above me or anyone else ,. Ms. Kingsley, if you should ever read this, "Great Job", really, please keep on directing movies too, you are a great Director and actress, people just try to boykott you with those diarrhea reviews, "STAY STRONG and FIGHT BACK"
October Kingsley Biography Mini Bio : October Kingsley is an actress, film producer, and director. She has been rated as one of Hollywood's top emerging film producers and actresses. Ms. Kingsley made her feature film acting and directorial debut with "The Seduction of Dr. Fugazzi", co-starring opposite Hollywood legend and Oscar winner Faye Dunaway. In addition to acting, producing, and directing films, Ms. Kingsley is also a " successful commercial and music video director ". Ms. Kingsley " graduated from UCLA with a double major in Philosophy and Psychology " . She is " currently working on several upcoming feature films and television show Projects ".
Attended the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco, California. Graduated from UCLA with a double Major in Philosophy and Psychology. Directed, produced and wrote her first feature film. Co-starred alongside academy-award winner Faye Dunaway.
What i have to say: This is a very powerful female and she knows what shes doing, by writing bad reviews you just proof how dumb you are, everyone can see it for himself what kind of movie and how great executed, even Faye Dunaway choosed to act along after she read the script, you idiots who write bad reviews know it better?? Definetly not, this is absolutely a masterpiece, its way better as all those Hollywood crap movies, those bad movie reviews are coming from assholes who grow up with Hollywood and Disney illuminati diarrhea, crap Star Wars and Marvel bullshit, this movie here is greatness, dumb idiots sure wont like it, but thats your fault for being dumb, if you dont like such a great movie, then at least shut your trap and piss off, you destroy peoples life with your lies, no matter this idiotic review from another user above me or anyone else ,. Ms. Kingsley, if you should ever read this, "Great Job", really, please keep on directing movies too, you are a great Director and actress, people just try to boykott you with those diarrhea reviews, "STAY STRONG and FIGHT BACK"
A Wonderful Sense of Surrealism - Smart Story-Line and Visually Impressive
naughtytroublemaker19 February 2010
A very strange, dark film, but quite incredible really when you consider how intelligently written and visually stunning it truly is. There is more to this film than meets the eye. I love how Lightness and Darkness seemingly coexist in this movie... each in their own place.
Visually and audibly, this is a fascinating movie with superbly bold colors, creepy camera angles and a diverse soundtrack. You hear everything from lush classical music to old rock 'n roll songs, and a bunch of bizarre noises and sound effects. Also, the dialogue is very entertaining and provocative.
This seems to be a film that people either love or hate. There is not much room for a middle ground.
If you haven't seen this yet, break away from the Hollywood cookie cutter movies and prepare to have your mind challenged, amused, and entertained. For an indie flick, this film has it all -- beautiful people, clever dialogue, stunning cinematography, powerful camera work, and deep music.
It makes a fun party movie, too.
Visually and audibly, this is a fascinating movie with superbly bold colors, creepy camera angles and a diverse soundtrack. You hear everything from lush classical music to old rock 'n roll songs, and a bunch of bizarre noises and sound effects. Also, the dialogue is very entertaining and provocative.
This seems to be a film that people either love or hate. There is not much room for a middle ground.
If you haven't seen this yet, break away from the Hollywood cookie cutter movies and prepare to have your mind challenged, amused, and entertained. For an indie flick, this film has it all -- beautiful people, clever dialogue, stunning cinematography, powerful camera work, and deep music.
It makes a fun party movie, too.
See also
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