Renato Cestiè emerged in the early 1970s, becoming a notable figure in Italian giallo and horror cinema. He is best known for his roles in A Bay of Blood (1971) and Torso (1973), where he navigates the treacherous waters of murder and intrigue. In Damned in Venice (1978), Cestiè further cements his place in the genre, embodying the complex narratives that define cult exploitation films. His performances contribute to the visceral atmosphere that fans of these films cherish, making him a significant player in the cult film landscape.
Damned in Venice
A blind boy, who lives alone with his mean sister in a rundown hotel in Venice, receives a vision that warns him of the upcoming birth of the Antichrist. Soon, his sister mysteriously becomes pregnant. “Damned in Venice” is a neglected gem. It offers some genuine shocks and a nice amount of female nudity. The Venetian location sets are gloomy, decayed and oppressive and there is a bit of gore including pretty nasty scene of child murder. It’s great to see Lorraine DeSelle and Olga Karlatos of “Zombi 2” fame in the small roles.
