1. "
Suspiria" (1977)
100
One of the greatest, most purely brilliant, and visually and beautifully extravagant films in the entire history of cinema. Never before has a film been so stylish and aesthetically wonderful. It has the essence and composition of a nightmare, brought to life by the truly haunting atmosphere created by the film's soundtrack, performed and composed by prog-rock band Goblin, which I believe is the greatest in all of film. The third greatest horror film ever, and by far Dario Argento's finest hour.
2. "
Deep Red" (1975)
96
Dario's second best achievement to date, following the sheer beauty that is 1977's "Suspiria". An incredibly stylish and brutally gruesome horror masterpiece, with one of the best soundtracks and some of the finest cinematography you'll ever see. Wonderful.
3. "
The Bird With the Crystal Plumage" (1970)
96
Pure cinema, and stylish seventies gialli at its very best; also one of the strongest directorial debuts I've ever witnessed. Further proof that Dario Argento is a master of his craft and is close to being the finest film director who ever lived - and Tony Musante is a handsome devil. Movies like these are why I love film.
4. "
Tenebrae" (1982)
90
While not nearly as brilliant as "Suspiria" or "Deep Red" (few films are, mind you), "Tenebre" is still an exceptionally well-written and made giallo, with brutal violence, outstanding gore effects and a fantastic music score. It may very well be Argento's most personal film.
5. "
Phenomena" (1985)
85
Irrefutably one of Argento's lesser works, and the acting performances are pretty poor, but I'll enjoy anything from the director. Thumbs up to the wonderful Jennifer Connelly and the cute, razor-blade wielding chimpanzee.
6. "
The Card Player" (2004)
70
Since the early nineties (maybe even earlier?), there is absolutely no denying that Dario Argento has been on a steep decline with his works; but "The Card Player" is still an interesting enough film. It isn't very good, and that's something most people can agree on, but it's still worth watching for fans of the director. Closer to torture porn than giallo.
7. "
The Stendahl Syndrome" (1996)
58
Let's face it, the Dario Argento who directed "Suspiria" is long-gone. From what I've seen, very few of the films he produced after 1977 even come close to mirroring that film; although you can't really expect the man to deliver anything on the same calibre again. This film, however, is just unacceptable. Not only does it not even feel like an Argento film at all, but it really isn't anything more than a piece of ridiculously boring, cheap 90's trash with a cool theme tune.
8. "
Jenifer" (2005)
56
From what I've seen, Dario Argento's least impressive film. Also his most revolting and most painful to watch.