I felt at home as soon as the opening credits began, and for the most part, the movie kept me there. Mausoleum was made in 1983 but it feels like it was made in 1978, and that only adds to its appeal. It's really one of the best examples of a film that perfectly abridges the most cherished elements of late 70's horror with early 80's horror in a heavily stylish, free-flowing manner. Apparently the producers managed to lose the highest quality print of the film before it was even released, so the version that's always existed feels like some sort of dub. The film scratches are incredibly apparent through the entire film, and what I am 98% certain is the sound of a reel machine playing the actual print of the film can be heard in nearly every scene. Again, this just adds to the overall aesthetic and expedience.
The film reminded me more of a Lucio Fulci film than anything else. There is one basic plot concept which is laid out in the beginning and then the entire movie floats along through it. Literally the only flaw I found with this film is that it does get quite a bit less interesting as it goes. The second half felt quite a bit slower than the electric first. But it has WAY more strengths than flaws. The Argento-esque lighting is done tastefully and really adds a ton to the movie - it feels born from Argento but actually reminded me even more of contemporary works like those of Nicolas Winding Refn or Panos Cosmatos. There are plentiful sequences of fun gore, practical makeup effects, and over-the-top dialogue delivery. The music is moody and effective. The lead actress carries the movie wonderfully, always amusing with her campy yet dreamlike performance.
This is one of the more underrated horror gems I've seen in a while. This, and Blood Rage, except Blood Rage is straight up so-bad-it's-good while this flick really does offer quite a bit with merit. Definitely recommended for fans of Italian horror or dreamy, stylish films.
