The story of this movie revolves around Napoleone, a gardener who takes a job at a southern-Italian villa. He quickly finds himself in a complicated and ultimately dangerous ménage à trois with Paola, a young and flirtatious girl, and her mother. The entangled relationships lead to a series of events involving sex, death, and mayhem. Napoleone’s growing affection for Paola, fueled by her provocative behavior, escalates into violence.

That Malicious Age (1975) is a dark and unsettling blend of psychological drama and erotic tension, capturing the atmosphere of European cinema from the 1970s. The film builds its narrative on emotional manipulation, desire, and the blurred boundaries between innocence and corruption, creating a tone that is both hypnotic and disturbing.

What makes the movie stand out is its slow-burning tension. Napoleone’s arrival at the villa sets the stage for a twisted relationship triangle where seduction and control define every interaction. Paola’s unpredictable behavior pulls him deeper into a dangerous emotional trap, while her mother adds another layer of mystery and moral ambiguity.

As the story progresses, the idyllic villa transforms into a place filled with unease. The film’s gradual shift from sensuality to violence keeps viewers on edge, exploring how obsession can distort judgment and lead to irreversible consequences. Each scene contributes to the sense of impending doom, making the narrative both gripping and unsettling.

The cinematography also enhances the experience, capturing rural Italy with a haunting beauty that contrasts the chaotic relationships unfolding within it. The film uses silence, close-up shots, and atmospheric framing to intensify the psychological conflict between the characters.