Shudder has made a significant acquisition in the realm of Italian horror, securing the documentary “Dario Argento Panico.” Amidst a pantheon of Italian horror auteurs such as Mario Bava and Lucio Fulci, Dario Argento stands out as one of the most revered and widely celebrated figures. As per Deadline’s report, this documentary retrospective will shed light on the Giallo Maestro’s life and works.

Scheduled for release on Shudder come February 2, 2024, following its world premiere at the 2023 Venice Film Festival, “Dario Argento Panico” offers an illuminating exploration of the influential filmmaker’s legacy. The documentary promises an intimate journey into Argento’s life, spotlighting his profound impact on the horror genre and his enduring influence on cinema.

The narrative delves into the intriguing creative process of Argento, revealing his penchant for crafting cinematic masterpieces within the seclusion of hotel rooms, where he delves deep into his nightmarish visions. Presently, returning to a hotel room, Argento aims to conclude his latest script while engaging in a candid interview, all under the lens of a film crew capturing moments for a movie chronicling his illustrious career.

Simone Scadfi takes the helm as the director of this documentary feature, delving into the life and artistry of the acclaimed filmmaker.

Recognized as both the Master of Thrill and a Master of Horror, Argento made his directorial debut in 1970, marking the beginning of a journey that led to a reputation for crafting visually intense and shockingly graphic cinematic experiences. His indelible mark on the genre sets the stage for this long-overdue exploration of his enduring legacy.

The documentary promises exclusive interviews with Argento himself, alongside acclaimed filmmakers Guillermo del Toro, Gaspar Noé, and Nicolas Winding Refn, who share insights into Argento’s impact on their own work.

Giada Mazzoleni serves as the producer, working alongside executive producer Manlio Gomarasca.

Expressing enthusiasm for this collaboration, Shudder’s VP of Programming, Sam Zimmerman, highlights Argento’s unparalleled influence on the horror genre. He emphasizes the documentary’s depth, offering an intimate portrayal of a masterful artist whose imagery continues to resonate across generations of audiences and creators worldwide.

Prior to its Shudder debut, the IFC Center in New York will present a theatrical retrospective titled “Panic Attacks: The Films of Dario Argento” from January 31 to February 8. This program will showcase a series of Argento’s films, including the U.S. premiere of “Dario Argento Panico,” alongside screenings of classics like “Suspiria,” “Inferno,” “Deep Red,” and “Tenebrae.”