✯✯✯✯
I can't exactly say why, but I think Opera is my favorite Argento film I've seen thus far. It somehow reminded me a little of Diva (for obvious reasons) and the story felt much more fluid and coherent than the last two films of his I watched. The plot elements were much better ultilized in that they felt necessary to the advancement of the story, and they actually made sense in their places.
I feel that this is sort of Argento's own take on The Phantom of the Opera (although he did his own legitimate version of that later on) because the stories felt so similar. Not just because it had the title of "Opera" and involved the musical style, but both films have somewhat of a creepy stalker for an antagonist who just wants the main character (opera singer) all to himself. Unlike Christine, however, Betty is subjected to various segments of torture, being forced to watch those close to her become murdered at the behest of this psychotic maniac. There was even a part near the end of the film where the antagonist reminded me of the phantom (although I won't spoil anything here).
True to Argento's style, Opera is littered with some beautiful POV shots that make the audience feel entranced and part of the story. Some swooping shots are shown from this perspective, and much of the opening prologue is shown from Betty's own perspective. POV shots are used so very rarely in films, and they are most effective when placed in horror films (namely Maniac). The way Argento utilizes them in Opera makes the style feel right at home, and adds to the tense, creepy feeling the story gives you.
After the last two experiences, it seems that the third time's the charm with me and Argento. Opera is my favorite of his I've seen yet, and while that may be because of it's massive resemblances to Gaston Leroux's flagship story, it certainly doesn't hinder it from being a great film. Argento's visual flair and unique camerawork are brought to their full potential, and I really fell in love with the story. It may not be saying much to other people, but this is my favorite Argento film yet. Hopefully I'll find more from him to love.