Who is Claudio Simonetti and why did he receive a special Pardo?

Claudio Simonetti, known as Monsieur Peur, is an Italian composer of horror soundtracks, famous for having collaborated with directors such as Dario Argento, Lucio Fulci, George A. Romero and Ruggero Deodato. He received a special Pardo at the Locarno Film Festival for his impact on horror film music, particularly from ‘Deep Red’ onwards, where his style helped define the genre's sonic aesthetic.

Where did the award to Claudio Simonetti take place?

The award to Claudio Simonetti took place in the context of the Locarno Film Festival, which takes place every year in the city of Locarno, in the Canton of Ticino. The festival is one of the most important cultural events in the region and attracts filmmakers, musicians and film enthusiasts from all over the world.

How can border workers participate in the Locarno Film Festival?

Border workers can participate in the Locarno Film Festival by purchasing tickets or subscriptions through the festival's official website. The screenings take place in the centre of Locarno, easily accessible from the Brogeda and Gaggiolo crossings, often used by border workers. It is advisable to check the program and access methods in advance, especially for free events or meetings with authors.

Claudio simonetti, monsieur peur: the special pardo at the Locarno film festival (cross-border guide)

Di Redazione Frontaliere Ticino · Published on 7 August 2026

Claudio Simonetti conducting Profondo rosso score at Locarno Film Festival

Horror soundtrack composer awarded a special Pardo at the Locarno Film Festival for scoring the genre from Deep Red onwards

Context

In a nutshell

Claudio Simonetti receives a special Pardo at the Locarno Film Festival
Recognized for having taken his sleep with his music from Argento to Romero
Awarded for its impact on horror cinema from Deep Red onwards

Key facts

What: Special pardo assigned to Claudio Simonetti
When: during the Locarno Film Festival
Where: Locarno, Canton of Ticino
Who: Claudio Simonetti, composer of horror soundtracks
Amount: not yet specified

Claudio Simonetti, known as Monsieur Peur, was awarded a special Pardo at the Locarno Film Festival for his contribution to horror film music. The recognition comes for having marked the sleep of the spectators at least as much as the directors he collaborated with, including Argento, Bava, Romero and Deodato. His work was particularly influential from ‘Deep Red‘ onwards, becoming a reference in the genre. The festival wanted to underline how his music has played a role comparable to that of directors in creating tension and fear. The award was conferred as part of the section dedicated to culture and entertainment, recognising the international impact of its soundtracks. Simonetti is known for having collaborated with some of the masters of horror cinema, helping to define the sonic aesthetics of the genre. The special Pardo is a recognition reserved for personalities who have left an indelible mark on cinema, even if not in

Operational details

Influence on film music

Claudio Simonetti's impact on horror cinema goes beyond mere musical accompaniment. His style, characterized by aggressive synthesizers and haunting melodies, helped define the sonic identity of films such as‘ Deep Red ’,‘ Suspiria ’and‘ Zombies’. This approach has influenced generations of composers and directors, becoming a reference in the world of the author's soundtrack. The recognition at the Locarno Film Festival underlines how music is not simply an accompaniment, but a fundamental narrative element. In Simonetti's case, his ability to create tension through sound had a direct effect on the viewer's experience, often increasing the perception of fear and suspense. The festival wanted to recognize this active role of music in the construction of cinematic terror. Although the award is cultural, it is interesting to note that figures like Simonetti also have a following among frontier workers who attend Ticino for work and culture. Many Italian border workers working in Switzerland participate in the Locarno Film Festival events as a moment of leisure and personal enrichment. The festival, in fact, offers screenings, meetings and events accessible even to those who are not in the sector, becoming a meeting point between Switzerland and Italy. The presence of border workers at Ticino cultural events is a well-known phenomenon,

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Key points

How to Participate in the Locarno Film Festival Events

For cross-border workers interested in following cultural events like the Locarno Film Festival, there are several access options available. The festival offers daily tickets and subscriptions for screenings, as well as free events in the square and meetings with authors. It is recommended to consult the official Locarno Film Festival website to know the updated program, screening locations and purchase methods. The main screening locations are located in the center of Locarno, easily accessible by public transport or by car through the Italian border. The closest border crossings are Brogeda and Gaggiolo, both frequently used by cross-border workers employed in the canton of Ticino. After parking or getting off the train, it is possible to reach the various festival venues on foot or by local buses. For those who want to deepen their knowledge of horror cinema and soundtracks, the festival often organizes retrospectives, meetings with composers and screenings of cult films. Some of these events can be particularly interesting for those working in the cultural or creative sector, regardless of their country of residence. It is also possible to combine a visit to the festival with other Ticino activities, such as a walk along the lake shore or a visit to Locarno's historic center. To stay updated on similar events in Ticino, it is recommended to follow the official channels of the Department of Education, Culture and Sport (DECS) of the Canton of Ticino, as well as the culture pages on the websites of the municipalities of Locarno, Bellinzona and Lugano.

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Source: laregione.ch

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Claudio Simonetti and why did he receive a special Pardo?: Claudio Simonetti, known as Monsieur Peur, is an Italian composer of horror soundtracks, famous for having collaborated with directors such as Dario Argento, Lucio Fulci, George A. Romero and Ruggero Deodato. He received a special Pardo at the Locarno Film Festival for his impact on horror film music, particularly from ‘Deep Red’ onwards, where his style helped define the genre's sonic aesthetic.
Where did the award to Claudio Simonetti take place?: The award to Claudio Simonetti took place in the context of the Locarno Film Festival, which takes place every year in the city of Locarno, in the Canton of Ticino. The festival is one of the most important cultural events in the region and attracts filmmakers, musicians and film enthusiasts from all over the world.
How can border workers participate in the Locarno Film Festival?: Border workers can participate in the Locarno Film Festival by purchasing tickets or subscriptions through the festival's official website. The screenings take place in the centre of Locarno, easily accessible from the Brogeda and Gaggiolo crossings, often used by border workers. It is advisable to check the program and access methods in advance, especially for free events or meetings with authors.