Riccardo Freda, born in 1909 in Alexandria, Egypt, was a pivotal figure in Italian genre cinema. He directed Lust of the Vampire (1957), a groundbreaking work that combined elements of horror and eroticism, establishing him as a key innovator in the giallo genre. Freda also helmed Caltiki, the Immortal Monster (1959), further solidifying his reputation for blending horror with science fiction. His contributions to films like The Ghost (1963) showcase his versatility as both a director and writer, leaving an indelible mark on cult cinema.
Lust of the Vampire
When four young women are found in Paris with the blood completely drained, the ambitious and snoopy journalist Pierre Lantin decides to investigate the cases of the killer known as The Vampire. Inspector Chantal does not approve Lantin’s behavior. Soon Pierre suspects that family Du Grand, who lives in an ancient castle, may be involved with the murders but Inspector Chantal does not give support to his investigations. Meanwhile Pierre avoids the harassment of Giselle du Grand, who is the niece of the wealthy matriarch of the family Margherita du Grand.
