Dario Argento (born
September 7 1940) is an
Italian film director,
producer and
screenwriter. He is best known for his work in the horror film genre, particularly in the subgenre known as
giallo, and for his influence on modern
horror and
slasher movies.
Early career
Argento was born in
Rome, the son of film producer/executive Salvatore Argento and
Brazilian-born photographer Elda Luxardo. He started his career in film as a critic, writing for various magazines while still attending high school.