Eight Dolls for an Autumn Moon: A Giallo-Inspired Thriller by Kristin Gallegos
Kristin Gallegos’ photography book, Eight Dolls for an Autumn Moon, immerses readers in a world both glamorous and chilling. Inspired by the Italian Giallo films of the ’60s and ’70s, the book pays homage to iconic directors like Dario Argento and Mario Bava while delving into the darker themes of fame, obsession, and vulnerability. The narrative follows a fashion photographer determined to protect her model friends from a lurking serial killer, weaving a storyline filled with suspense, paranoia, and stunning visual storytelling.
In an conversation with MLove, Gallegos shared insights into the creative process and inspiration behind Eight Dolls for an Autumn Moon.
What drew you to the Giallo genre as the inspiration for Eight Dolls for an Autumn Moon?
The Giallo genre is one of my all-time favorites! Cinema has always been my biggest influence, especially films from the ’60s and ’70s. Giallo’s lavish sets, striking costumes, and menacing soundtracks create such a unique, stylish atmosphere. It’s the faceless killers, black leather gloves, POV shots, and that unforgettable bright red blood that make the genre so memorable. The women in these films are multi-faceted, holding powerful roles in the arts, fashion, and science while navigating love, betrayal, and mystery. They’re incredibly complex characters, and that drew me in.
Were there specific films or moments from that era that influenced the visual or narrative tone of your book?
I drew inspiration from many films, and there are nods to them throughout. Even the title Eight Dolls for an Autumn Moon is a nod to Mario Bava’s Five Dolls for an August Moon. My protagonist is a famous fashion photographer trying to save her friends, inspired by the Giallo trope of strong, high-profile women in arts and media. Films like The Red Queen Kills Seven Times, Strip Nude for Your Killer, and Smile Before Death influenced this theme. I also referenced films like All the Colors of the Dark, Death Walks at Midnight, and Deep Red—even the lighting was inspired by Argento’s Suspiria, though it’s not strictly a Giallo film.
How did you choose your eight muses, and what made them the perfect fit for these roles?
I selected muses from throughout my photography career, blending early inspirations with new faces. Each muse has a connection to the classic ‘Giallo Queens’—actors like Edwige Fenech, Barbara Bouchet, and Florinda Bolkan. All of them are strong, beautiful women who inspire me, and we have a great level of comfort and trust. I also cast my friend Luke Brandon Field in a dual role. He’s an amazing actor, and having him on board was truly special. Working with friends allowed for a relaxed environment and helped bring out the best in each shot.
The themes of paranoia, fear, and obsession are central in Giallo. How did you weave these elements into a modern narrative, especially in today’s context for women?
These themes are at the heart of the story. Rather than focusing on gore, I emphasized the tension of paranoia and fear—subtle references to menacing phone calls, blackmail, stalking, and narrow escapes. The narrative addresses the unsettling vulnerability of being a woman, the need to be on high alert, especially when alone. It also touches on the chilling aspect of obsession within fame-driven culture. I wanted to convey how terrifying it can be to live under constant scrutiny.
Can you talk us through your creative process in developing the intertwined vignettes?
I spent about a year and a half planning and preparing. Styling and props were all chosen with specific scenes in mind, and I rewatched influential films, taking notes and creating storyboards. Each vignette was mapped out with shot lists and specific character connections. I wanted the stories to overlap, so while I mostly shot each muse individually, there are clues that connect their stories. My friend Jasmine Poulton wrote the text for each vignette, offering a movie-script-like view of each character’s thoughts. This layering brought a deeper sense of cohesion to the project.
How did you balance visual storytelling with the emotional depth of each character’s arc?
Each character has a unique storyline and setting. For instance, the photographer is shown in her darkroom analyzing photos for clues, then questioning her model about what she might know. Another character is seen blackmailing someone outside a hotel, while another prepares to leave town. The lighting, setting, and costumes add to the emotion and drama of each scene. We even played around with ideas like switching who might play the killer—a twist inspired by Argento himself.
What message or feeling do you hope readers take away from Eight Dolls for an Autumn Moon?
I hope readers are inspired to explore the Giallo genre if they’re new to it, and appreciate my unique take on it. There are subtle references, hints, and homages planted throughout for fans to find. But I also hope the themes resonate—living alone as a woman can be frightening at times, especially in a world where social media gives people such close access to others. Giallo is the perfect genre to explore these ideas.
I wanted the project to feel both beautiful and collaborative, surrounded by strong, independent, creative women—from the models to the team behind the scenes. This collaboration made the project truly special.
Through Eight Dolls for an Autumn Moon, Gallegos has created an immersive experience that captures the timeless tension between beauty and fear, powerfully reimagining the Giallo genre with a modern twist.
Eight Dolls for an Autumn Moon is official out in January 2025 and now available for pre-order.
Photography and Styling
Kristin Gallegos (@kristingallegos)
Publisher
Snap Collective (@snapcollectiveworld )
Models
Cora Keegan (@corasface), Dani Dolinger (@dani__doll), Ashley Smith (@therealashsmith), Alix Brown (@alix_brown), Chavi St. Hill (@chavisthill), Gabrielle Montes de Oca (@gabrielle.montesdeoca), Coco Baudelle (@cocobaudelle), Paige Elkington (@myfriendpaige) and Luke Brandon Field (@lukebrandonfield)
Makeup
Darian Darling (@moidariandarling) and Tayler Treadwell (@taylertreadwell)
Hair
Nikki Providence (@nikkiprovidence) Abbie Klenzman (@dearabbiehair) and Amber Kerns (@gypsystrampsnthieves)
Retouching
Cher Dunn (@musicpixeldream)
ALL IMAGES IN COURTESY BY KRISTIN GALLEGOS
TEXT BY MARIE BURNET
