Short Night of Glass Dolls presents us with a unique spin on the familiar giallo genre. As a matter of fact, I'm not quite sure that I've ever seen a giallo quite like this one. I'm not even sure that I'd even classify Short Night of Glass Dolls as a giallo to begin with, but it's close enough I suppose. Giallo or not Anchor Bay is at it again with their equally unique Giallo Boxed Set with director Aldo Lado's directorial debut Short Night of Glass Dolls.

Reporter Gregory Moore (Jean Sorel of Belle de Jour and Lizard in a Womans Skin) is found lifeless, discarded in the bushes somewhere in Prague. Once he is taken to the morgue, we discover that he is alive, trapped within his own paralyzed body. Through recollections and flashbacks Gregory must determine how he has arrived here, and what he can do to save his life (if it can even be saves at this point) before it's too late. Through blackmail, cover-ups, and the mysterious disappearance of Gregory's girlfriend (the gorgeous Barbara Bach of The Black Belly of the Tarantula and The Spy Who Loved Me) we are taken on a downward spiral through Gregory's limited memory. Gregory's world is full of confrontations with unique and bizarre individuals as we learn along with him. Memento it ain't people, that's for sure.

Short Night of Glass Dolls is an admirable attempt and for the most part can be a satisfying view for the adventurous filmgoer. There are no easy answers buried within and the film does move at a slower than usual pace (despite its brief 94 minute running time). Many will be disappointed in the lack of the red stuff (the film is virtually bloodless). There are a few murders, but we really don't see much of anything onscreen. The film does contain some well executed scenes of suspense, and therefore plays more like a sophisticated psychological thriller, more so than your typical giallo. The film does contain copious amounts of nudity from people aged in their 20's to 70's for all you pervs out there (especially the oldie orgy towards the end of the film, yum). Lado does well by presenting us with thoughtful setups and deep well meaningful scenes of character development early on (as he does with his second giallo, Who Saw Her Die). We do care about these characters very much so, and this is a huge reason in why the film works as well as it does. Lado is also once again able to show off his talented directorial style as he always makes good use of his frame and locations.

Can I please just say that Anchor Bay has done a crappy as hell job and this transfer looks like complete shit? Please? Well, I can't because that would be the farthest thing from the truth. Once again, I have to admit that Anchor Bay has done an incredible job. Aside from the occasional spec, there's really nothing to complain about. There is an odd frame jump at about 15 minutes into the film, but aside from that, the image is simply outstanding. Colors are sharp and vibrant; this film looks better than anyone could have ever expected. It truly is amazing how Anchor Bay has taken these obscure films 9that had virtually no previous life in the US) from the 70's and presented them to us as if they were brand new. I hope they keep up this trend for a long time.

The Mono sound is equally impressive with really no distortion to speak of. Dialogue is crisp and clear, with the music and effects appearing nicely balanced. The subtle, yet effective score from the great Ennio Morricone sounds absolutely spectacular. No complaints here. As usual, the dubbing leaves a bit to be desired, but as we all know that's par for the course with a film like this.

Extras include an 11-minute interview with director Aldo Lado entitled Strange Days of the Short night that is a very interesting view. Lado discusses many aspects of the production, and fans should find the brief 11 minute segment to be truly satisfying. We're also given an original theatrical trailer in really nice shape as well. Things are rounded out with a brief Aldo Lado Filmography. Considering the price points of these DVDs individually as well as part of the set, these little extras are a most welcomed addition.

Well, if you were hoping this would be the time that I would say something negative about Anchor Bay, I'm sorry to disappoint. Anchor Bay has done an outstanding job with this title, as they have the entire Giallo Boxed Set. Fans of Short Night of the Glass Dolls should be very pleased. First timers, well, there's no better way to get yourself acquainted with Italian thrillers than with this title, or any or all of the other selections in Anchor Bay's box o' giallo.