“Killer Nun” (Italian: “Suor Omicidi”) is a 1979 Italian nunsploitation horror film directed by Giulio Berruti. The film is known for its provocative themes, blending elements of horror, exploitation, and psychological drama. It stands out within the nunsploitation subgenre for its controversial content and striking visuals.
Overview
- Title: Killer Nun
- Original Title: Suor Omicidi
- Director: Giulio Berruti
- Producer: Enzo Gallo
- Writers: Giulio Berruti, Alberto Tarallo
- Cinematography: Mario Vulpiani
- Music: Alessandro Alessandroni
- Release Year: 1979
- Genre: Horror, Thriller, Exploitation
- Runtime: Approximately 88 minutes
- Language: Italian (dubbed into various languages for international release)
Plot Summary
The film centers on Sister Gertrude, a disturbed nun who struggles with drug addiction, psychological instability, and violent tendencies, leading her to commit a series of brutal murders.
Main Plot Points:
- Psychological Decline: Sister Gertrude (Anita Ekberg) works at a hospital where she undergoes a psychological and moral decline following brain surgery. She becomes addicted to morphine, leading to erratic behavior and hallucinations.
- Murderous Rampage: As her mental state deteriorates, Gertrude begins to commit violent acts, including murder. Her victims include patients and staff at the hospital.
- Sexual Deviance: The film explores Gertrude’s sexual desires and encounters, adding another layer of exploitation to the narrative.
- Suspicion and Investigation: Other nuns and hospital staff grow suspicious of Gertrude’s behavior. An investigation into the murders intensifies, creating a tense atmosphere.
- Climax and Resolution: The film builds to a dramatic climax as Gertrude’s actions come to light, and she confronts her inner demons and external accusers.
Characters
- Sister Gertrude (Anita Ekberg): The protagonist, a nun who descends into madness, addiction, and murder. Ekberg’s portrayal of Gertrude is intense and compelling.
- Sister Mathieu (Paola Morra): A younger nun who becomes closely involved with Gertrude, both emotionally and physically.
- Dr. Poirret (Massimo Serato): A doctor at the hospital who grows suspicious of Gertrude’s behavior.
- Mother Superior (Alida Valli): The head of the convent who tries to maintain order amidst the chaos.
- Peter (Joe Dallesandro): A patient at the hospital who becomes one of Gertrude’s victims.
Notable Elements
- Nunsploitation Genre: “Killer Nun” is a notable example of the nunsploitation subgenre, which features nuns in scenarios involving horror, sex, and violence.
- Controversial Themes: The film is controversial for its depiction of a nun engaging in murder, drug addiction, and sexual acts, challenging traditional religious norms.
- Performance by Anita Ekberg: Ekberg, known for her role in “La Dolce Vita,” delivers a memorable performance, capturing Gertrude’s complex and disturbed character.
- Visual Style: The film features striking cinematography by Mario Vulpiani, with a mix of stark hospital settings and surreal, hallucinatory sequences.
Reception
- Critical Reception: “Killer Nun” received mixed reviews. Some critics appreciated its bold approach to taboo subjects and Ekberg’s performance, while others criticized it for being exploitative and sensationalist.
- Cult Following: Despite its controversial nature, the film has garnered a cult following, particularly among fans of exploitation and horror cinema.
- Censorship: Due to its graphic content, “Killer Nun” faced censorship and bans in several countries, including the United Kingdom, where it was listed as a “video nasty.”
Legacy
- Influence on Exploitation Cinema: The film is considered a key entry in the nunsploitation genre and has influenced other films that explore similar themes of religious and sexual transgression.
- Home Video Releases: “Killer Nun” has been released on various home video formats, including DVD and Blu-ray, often featuring restored versions and special features like director commentaries and interviews.
- Academic Analysis: The film has been the subject of academic analysis, particularly in studies of exploitation cinema, gender, and religion.
Additional Information
- Director’s Approach: Giulio Berruti’s direction blends psychological horror with exploitation elements, creating a film that is both disturbing and provocative.
- Music Score: Alessandro Alessandroni’s score adds to the film’s eerie and unsettling atmosphere, enhancing the psychological tension.
Overall, “Killer Nun” is a provocative and controversial film that stands out within the exploitation and horror genres. Its bold exploration of taboo subjects and Anita Ekberg’s powerful performance make it a notable entry in the history of nunsploitation cinema.
