This second entry in Dario Argento's "Animal Trilogy" found the young talent further refining his distinctive style and cementing his reputation as master of the giallo. When a break-in occurs at a secretive genetics institute, a blind puzzle-maker (Karl Malden) overhears an attempt to blackmail an institute scientist shortly before the robbery; he teams up with intrepid reporter Carlo (James Franciscus) to crack the case. Soon the bodies pile up, and the two amateur sleuths find their own lives at risk. Worse still, the puzzle-maker's niece (Cinzia De Carolis) is in the killer's sights. Featuring another nerve-jangling score by the great Ennio Morricone, THE CAT O' NINE TAILS remains one of Argento's most suspenseful and underrated films.