Quick answer
Kat Ellinger's book on Sergio Martino is the definitive guide for fans of giallo cinema and Italian genre films. It covers his career across multiple genres, making it a valuable addition to any cult cinema book collection.
Why this book stands out for giallo fans
Sergio Martino directed across many genres, but his giallo thrillers are among the most influential. Kat Ellinger's book traces his rise from actor to director, offering context that helps you appreciate the stylistic and thematic hallmarks of his giallo work.
If you're building a film book collection focused on Italian horror or cult cinema, this title fills a gap that broader overviews often miss. It's not a coffee-table book—it's a research-backed career study.
Trade-offs to consider
The book covers Martino's entire filmography, including comedies, westerns, and sci-fi. If your interest is exclusively giallo, you may find sections on other genres less relevant. However, those sections also show how his giallo style evolved alongside his other work.
At 18 USD (catalog price 25 USD), it's reasonably priced for a specialized film monograph. But if you prefer a broader survey of Italian horror, you might want a multi-director anthology instead.
Decision rules for buying this book
- Interest in giallo cinema: If you're a fan of Italian giallo films and want a detailed study of one of its key directors, this book is a strong choice.
- Completeness of filmography: If you want coverage of Martino's entire career—not just giallo—this book delivers. If you only want giallo, check the table of contents first. Look for a chapter breakdown online to confirm the giallo coverage meets your needs.
- Budget for film books: At 18 USD (down from 25 USD), it's a good value for a specialized monograph. If your budget is tight, consider whether you'll read the non-giallo sections.
Product facts
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All the Colours of Sergio Martino: Author Kat Ellinger tracks the director's rise, from his humble beginnings as actor, covering giallo, crime thriller, cannibal, comedy, western, sci-fi and action over nearly 40 years. This means you get a career-spanning view that connects his giallo films to his other genre work, giving you a deeper understanding of his style and influences.
All the Colours of Sergio Martino
Who this book fits
Best for
- Fans of giallo cinema and Italian horror films who want a career retrospective
- Collectors building a cult cinema book collection focused on genre directors
Not for
- Readers seeking a general overview of Italian horror—this is a single-director study
- Casual viewers who only know Martino's giallo work and prefer a quick read
