Showing posts with label Code Red. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Code Red. Show all posts

Sunday, December 29, 2019

UNPOPPED CINEMA'S TOP 25 BEST DISCS OF 2019

Even though industry giant Samsung decided to halt the production of their 4K Blu-ray players in the U.S. earlier this year, this rather worrying bit of news hasn’t caused any number of dedicated independent Blu-ray companies to slow down even a little bit. Labels such as Arrow Video, Code Red, The Criterion Collection, Eureka Entertainment, Grindhouse Releasing, Kino Lorber, Mondo Macabro, Scorpion Releasing, Severin Films, Twilight Time and Vinegar Syndrome continue to supply home video connoisseurs with a seemingly endless array of lovingly-restored studio catalogue pictures, forgotten and/or previously-unreleased films, most of which are lavishly-packaged, and in many cases, instantly collectible.  In fact, 2019 has seen so much new stuff released that it’s nigh-on-impossible to even try keeping up with ’em all! It must be said, though, that, as much as I enjoy putting these lists together, this incredible—and seemingly ever-increasing—volume of output makes it increasingly difficult for me to compile a thorough list without leaving something out; which may confound, frustrate or even annoy some especially voracious film fans out there as they peruse and contemplate my selections. But that’s half the fun, isn’t it?! So without further ado, let’s take a look at the notable 2019 Blu-ray releases below (presented in the order of their respective release dates), which amount to a mere fraction of this year’s long list of highlights, all of which come highly recommended, of course.

MIKEY AND NICKY [1976] (Criterion Collection) – Despite the absence of director Elaine May in Criterion’s otherwise superb Blu-ray (she did, however, supervise the 4K transfer), this still remains a most welcome release of what is perhaps her best film. John Cassavetes stars as Nicky, a low-level hood who has become entangled in the theft of some money from a mob-controlled bank and, when he hears that his accomplice was recently killed, he calls on his friend Mikey (Peter Falk) to help him out. Meticulously-scripted, with astonishing performances from both Cassavetes and Falk, May’s film is both a gangster film and a comedy like no other. While not for everyone, if you can succumb to the film’s unique rhythm, you’re sure to be generously rewarded by this unheralded and criminally-underseen film, one which fully deserves to be part of the Criterion family.

ALL OF THE COLORS OF THE DARK [1972] (Severin Films) – Sergio Martino’s fascinating psychedelic giallo whodunit, starring the inimitable trifecta of Edwige Fenech, George Hilton and Ivan Rassimov, remains one of the pinnacles of the genre, and this wonderful release from Severin Films finally does the film proud. It features the best transfer to date, along with a number of worthwhile extras (including a thoroughly-researched audio commentary from Diabolique’s Kat Ellinger), but, in a thoughtful bit of comprehensiveness, Severin have also included both the film’s alternate U.S. release version of the film and Bruno Nicolai’s complete 29-track score as a standalone CD. And for you hardcore collectors out there, Severin’s Dual Slipcase Edition also includes Federico Caddeo’s feature-length documentary ALL THE COLORS OF GIALLO (2019), which is housed in a staggering, extras-filled 3-disc set that also includes Giallothon, a four-hour (!) giallo trailer compilation (with optional audio commentary by Kat Ellinger once again!) as well as Kriminal! an additional trailer compilation, this time devoted to German Krimi films (whose influence on the Italian thriller genre is undeniable). Finally, The Strange Sounds of Blood Stained Films is yet another soundtrack CD, this one featuring 20 cues from several famed composers, highlighting their work within the genre. Whichever edition you opt for, both are as prestigious as the film itself. Highly recommended!

THE POSSESSED [1965] (Arrow Video) – Much like his later and equally stunning gialli THE FIFTH CORD (1971) and the extraordinary FOOTPRINTS ON THE MOON (1975), Luigi Bazzoni’s directorial debut is another mesmerizing, beautifully-photographed effort, which looks totally picture-perfect on Arrow’s new disc. On the extras front, Tim Lucas provides another one of his comprehensive, must-listen audio commentaries, wherein he reveals everything from the film’s production to the real-life crimes that inspired it. The disc also includes a number of featurettes about the film itself, along with coverage of the talented and hugely-undervalued filmmaking brothers Luigi and Camillo Bazzoni. Read review.

SCREAMS OF A WINTER NIGHT [1979] (Code Red) – Finally unearthed from the VHS graveyard, James L. Wilson’s ambitious regionally-produced horror anthology finally arrived on disc in grand style in an edition that not only featured a (quote) “brand new 2K scan of the original 16mm A/B roll camera negative”, but includes the never-before-seen 118m director’s cut as well! The results of this snazzy new transfer are quite spectacular, and this drastic improvement in picture quality will come as a real revelation to anyone accustomed to the murky old pan-and-scanned VHS tape. The vastly-improved image goes a looong way in helping viewers to better appreciate SOAWN’s eerie atmosphere, and improves on the somewhat troublesome day-for-night photography seen in previous versions. As an added bonus, the disc also comes with the truncated 91m theatrical version, which was taken from a suitably worn print and, by simple contrast, makes you better appreciate the truly excellent restoration work done by Code Red here. Read review

DETOUR [1945] (Criterion Collection) – Edgar G. Ulmer’s inspired bit of gritty low-budget noir filmmaking gains a lot of much-deserved extra respect via Criterion’s essential new Blu-ray. Utilizing prints from various different sources, Mike Pogorzelski and Heather Linville endured many hours of painstakingly complicated repair work, but their obsessive tenacity paid off handsomely with this incredible restoration. Criterion have also included a number of wonderful special features, including Edgar G. Ulmer: A Man Off-Screen, a feature-length documentary from 2004 about this legendary albeit woefully underappreciated director, who frequently worked wonders on lowest-of-the-low budgets. 

THE DEVIL’S NIGHTMARE [1971] (Mondo Macabro) – In spite of being one of the very first Euro horrors to attain a domestic DVD release way back in 1998 (courtesy of Redemption Films and Image Entertainment), Jean Brismée’s contemporaneously-set Gothic horror continued to be a public domain eyesore on digital disc for years thereafter, a fact which makes MM’s official Blu-ray debut all the more exciting and rewarding. Punctuated by André Goeffers’striking camerawork and Alessandro Alessandroni’s unforgettable music score, THE DEVIL’S NIGHTMARE is still best-remembered for Eurotrash cinema goddess Erika Blanc’s minimalistic if memorably sinister performance, for which the actress accomplishes so much with so little. It goes without saying that MM’s transfer improves mightily upon any and all previous versions but, besides the plentiful extras (including an entertaining audio commentary by Troy Howarth), MM have seen fit to include the film’s original French-language audio track with newly-translated English subtitles, which also makes for a far-more-satisfying viewing experience. Of course, MM’s initial Limited ‘Red Case’ Edition has since sold out, but the retail version contains the exact same extras (minus a 10-page liner notes booklet and some lobby card reproductions). Read review

BLOOD HUNGER: THE FILMS OF JOSÉ RAMÓN LARRAZ [1970 – 1978] (Arrow Video) – Spanish director José Ramón Larraz is likely best-known on these shores for his wild and excessively bloody lesbian vampire tour de force VAMPYRES (1974), but his lengthy filmography has revealed a number other mini-masterpieces, such as SYMPTOMS (1974) and his long-unseen WHIRLPOOL (1970), which has finally—and officially—resurfaced in this superb box set. The definitive highlight of Arrow’s set, WHIRLPOOL firmly established many of the director’s themes and obsessions, including bleak, oppressive atmosphere punctuated by some (for the time, at least) startlingly brutal moments of violence. Utilizing the film’s U.S. release version as prepared by Jerry Gross’ Cinemation Industries, Arrow’s transfer really brings out the film’s aesthetic qualities, and this comes as a real revelation to not only fans of Larraz’s work but to Euro horror buffs in general. Although VAMPYRES has been steadily available over the years through a number of different companies on many different formats, Arrow’s new 2K transfer easily ranks as the best of the bunch and, as with Blue Underground’s earlier U.S. Blu-ray, Arrow’s Blu also contains the complete uncut version. The last film in the set, THE COMING OF SIN (1978), is a rather hallucinatory, evocative bit of erotica, which too has finally been released in its complete uncut version here. It likewise boasts another stellar transfer, which does wonders with the film’s hazy, soft-focus photography. Handsomely-packaged over three discs, with far too many extras to mention individually, the set includes everything from audio commentaries c/o the likes of Tim Lucas, Kat Ellinger and Samm Deighan to a wide variety of featurettes and on-camera interviews, plus a nicely-illustrated 80-page (!) book of writings from Tim Greaves and Vanity Celis. An incredible undertaking indeed, and absolutely essential!

FLESHPOT ON 42ND STREET [1973] (Vinegar Syndrome) – If one looks beyond his pitifully minuscule budgets, pioneering New York D.I.Y. filmmaker Andy Milligan did most certainly have a knack for bringing an undeniable angry energy to his seamy, pessimistic sub-cinematic worldviews, of which FLESHPOT is arguably one of his very best offerings. Unfolding amidst the forlorn squalor of a long-gone Times Square and featuring some wonderfully affecting performances from both Laura Cannon (using the pseudonym ‘Diana Lewis” here) and Milligan regular Neil Flanagan as a seen-and-done-it-all drag queen, this new 4K transfer taken from the film’s 16mm camera reversal is a real eye-opener, which brings to light a number of previously obscured details. Presented in its original 1.33:1 aspect ratio (although a 1.85:1 matted version is also included!), this new uncut edition additionally includes a couple of very brief scenes depicting explicit sex that were heretofore only ever talked about but never seen until now. As for extras, authors and film historians Samm Deighan, Heather Drain and Kat Ellinger provide a terrific joint audio commentary covering both the film itself Milligan’s and colourful career in general. As of this writing, the Limited Edition is still available at Vinegar Syndrome, and it ranks as one of the very finest releases in their entire, prolific catalogue. 

CUJO [1983] (Eureka Entertainment) – While the transfer has prompted complaints from some die-hard techies (it looks about on-par with Olive Films’ earlier 2013 release), everything here looks quite satisfactory and, while a new 2K or 4K scan would be most welcome, this is still the best-looking presentation of the film that is currently available. However, where Eureka’s 2-disc set really outdoes any previous release is in the extras department, which not only ports-over the Dog Days documentary from Lionsgate’s 2007 Blu-ray, but also includes an whole wealth of special features, including an audio commentary from film historian Lee Gambin (author of Nope, Nothing Wrong Here: The Making of Cujo), along with a number of lengthy on-camera interviews that include a 100-minute Q&A session with actress Dee Wallace c/o Melbourne, Australia’s film collective, Cinemaniacs. Limited to 4000 copies (which may have already sold out) and enclosed in a sturdy slipcase boasting original artwork courtesy of Graham Humphreys, the set in addition includes a 60-page book containing essays from Craig Ian Mann, Scott Harrison and Gambin once again. In spite of the somewhat dated transfer, this release nonetheless comes highly recommended for its expansive treasure trove of well-researched extra features alone. 

VIY [1967] (Severin Films) – Based on Nikolai Gogol’s supernatural short story The Vij (first published in 1835), which was also used as the basis for Mario Bava’s iconic Euro Gothic BLACK SUNDAY (1960)—as well as Oleg Stepchenko’s big-budget, CGI-filled Russian-Ukrainian-Czech remake / reimagining ВийVIY (a.k.a. FORBIDDEN KINGDOM [2014])—this extraordinary Russian horror fantasy was finally afforded a much-deserved Blu-ray release earlier this year, and the HD boost certainly does wonders for Alexandr Ptushko’s marvelous special effects sequences (without doubt, the climactic sequence—showcasing a garishly grotesque menagerie of otherworldly monstrosities—easily stands as one of the most fabulous and magical sequences to be found in all of international cinema!). The disc also includes Vij the Vampire, a terrific interview with director Richard Stanley, and From the Woods to the Cosmos, another fascinating interview with Russian film historian John Leman Riley, who goes over the history of Russian genre films. In addition, as with the previous Image/Ruscico DVD (circa the early 2000s), Severin have once again—most appreciatively indeed—included THE PORTRAIT (1915), THE QUEEN OF SPADES (1916) and SATAN EXULTANT (1917), three utterly fascinating Russian silent shorts, which are themselves quite unforgettable.  

AMERICAN HORROR PROJECT VOLUME TWO [1972 – 1977] (Arrow Video) – Three years since the release of Volume One, Stephen Thrower’s continued exploration of neglected and undiscovered American horror films totals another must-own box set. John Hayes’ DREAM NO EVIL (1972), Martin Goldman’s DARK AUGUST (1976) and Robert Voskanian’s THE CHILD (1977) are yet another trio of highly idiosyncratic examples of regional U.S. filmmaking, all of which are worthy of the praise they are given here. Although each film in this set is solid enough, it’s DARK AUGUST that turns out to be the real sleeper here. An impressively-mounted and highly atmospheric film in its own right, it is not only eerily compelling, but its air of underlying menace is entirely palpable. Loaded with informative audio commentaries, extra documentaries, cast/crew interviews and much, much more, this exhaustive set gets top marks all around, amounting to one of the very best releases of the year!  

DOUBLE FACE [1969] (Arrow Video) – Long unavailable in anything resembling a decent, coherent version (the film’s U.S. VHS transfer print was heavily edited), Riccardo Freda’s early giallo represents one of the very few early attempts to effectively bridge the gap between the atmospheric horror tropes of the Italian Gothic and the more modern sensibilities of the Italian thriller. Highlighted by Gábor Pogány’s appropriately moody photography and Nora Orlandi’s deliciously lush score, Freda’s film has never looked better than it does here on Arrow’s flawless Blu-ray, which not only reinstates the film back to its original luster, but finally features the uncut version as well. Arrow’s disc is also nicely complimented by an informative audio commentary courtesy of Tim Lucas, who most definitely knows a thing or two about Italian films, and he even discusses DOUBLE FACE’s connection to German Edgar Wallace Krimi genre (it was even marketed in Germany as such). A nicely-illustrated video essay charting the works of Freda and a couple of featurettes spotlighting the career of Nora Orlandi are also included.

THE NEW YORK RIPPER [1982] (Blue Underground) – A superb upgrade in every way, Lucio Fulci’s supremely nasty giallo gets quite the overhaul via BU’s new 3-disc Limited Edition Blu-ray set, which not only features a brand-new, startlingly crisp 4K transfer, but also an entire host of new special features, including an audio commentary by Splintered Visions author Troy Howarth and an on-camera interview with Beyond Terror: The Films of Lucio Fulci author Stephen Thrower. As with some of their earlier Limited Edition sets, BU have also included Francesco De Masi’s wonderful, highly-engaging 29-track score as a bonus CD. On the packaging front, it also includes a nice 20-page booklet with writing from Travis Crawford, all of which is appropriately adorned with sleazy if striking cover art featuring all-new alternate artwork by famed Italian poster artist Enzo Sciotti. 

OPERA [1987] (Scorpion Releasing) – Arguably one of Dario Argento’s last great films, this lavishly-produced, 3-disc set features new 2K transfers of three separate cuts of the film, including a (quote) “2.35:1 Super 35, 1.78:1 and US Orion Pictures Cut”, all presented on separate discs. And if that weren’t enough, the first two editions also include English or Italian audio tracks with optional, newly-translated English subtitles. Extras begin with a pair of great audio commentaries from Mondo Digital’s Nathaniel Thompson and author Troy Howarth, then continue with a bevy of on-camera interviews from Dario Argento, composer Claudio Simonetti, special effects guru Sergio Stivaletti, as well as most of the film’s principal actors. Scorpion’s impressive presentation may well be THE final word on the film, whose confusing release history is finally put to rest with this must-own disc.

THE TOUGH ONES [1976] (Grindhouse Releasing) – One of the high watermarks of the entire genre, Grindhouse’s staggering 3-disc Deluxe Edition is likewise one of the most impressive Blu-ray releases of any Italocrime film. Featuring the ever-dependable Maurizio Merli and a scene-stealing performance from Tomas Milian, this set is as much of a celebration of Lenzi’s entire career as the film itself, which, outside of the numerous extras, also features a feature-length documentary on the man himself. Beautifully packaged, Grindhouse have also seen fit to include Franco Micalizzi’s dynamic, hugely-enjoyable score as a separate CD. Read review.

KLUTE [1971] (Criterion Collection) – From director Alan J. Pakula (who would go on to helm one of the greatest conspiracy thrillers, ALL THE PRESIDENT’S MEN [1976]), Jane Fonda stars as Bree Daniels, a high-end New York City call-girl who gets mixed-up in a missing persons investigation, which private investigator John Klute (Donald Sutherland) is hired to solve in this understated and rather unsettling thriller. While expertly lensed by master DP Gordon Willis and chillingly scored by Michael Small, this remains Fonda’s show all the way thanks to her edgy, masterful performance. Beautifully-restored and scanned in 4K (as supervised by camera operator Michael Chapman), this is a most welcome release of a pivotal ’Seventies classic. 

CRUISING [1980] (Arrow Video) – Vilified during its initial theatrical release, William Friedkin’s controversial-yet-unforgettable film has steadily gained a quite rabid fan base over the years, but following Warner’s 2008 DVD, the film became controversial for an entirely different reason due to Friedkin’s notorious tinkering with it. The entire picture was reworked and given a blue hue over most of the proceedings, but, most notoriously of all, some odd—and highly distracting—digital effects were also sloppily added to the film, as good as ruining it in the process. Fortunately, Arrow’s new Blu-ray restores CRUISING back to its original form, and it now features a far more appropriate and naturalistic color scheme. At the same time, all those annoying digital effects have been removed as well. Also worth mentioning (since it too caused some controversy), this new 4K scan additionally features a slightly reworked, fittingly ominous title card which sets up the narrative more effectively without intruding on the film proper when it begins. So with that being said, this new presentation should be considered the definitive version of Friedkin’s film. Porting-over all the extra features from Warner’s DVD, Arrow have also included a brand-new audio commentary from Friedkin and critic Mark Kermode and, unlike Friedkin’s solo commentary from the earlier disc (also included here), Kermode gets him to reveal all sorts of interesting stories related to the film, which still remains one of the more compelling works in his entire canon. 

APOCALYPSE NOW [1979] (Lionsgate) – With more and more films making the jump to 4K UHD, Francis Ford Coppola’s hallucinatory, epic and beautifully stylized film is easily one of the more impressive UHD releases to hit the home video market. Spread over 2 UHD and 4 Blu-ray discs, Lionsgate’s gorgeously packaged set includes all three versions of the film (each taken from the same 4K restoration), all of which look immaculate with perfect colour saturation and superb detail. The almost ridiculously thorough extras (most of which are presented in 1080p and also include the essential documentary Hearts of Darkness: A Filmmaker’s Apocalypse [1991]) only sweeten the deal. 

THE PREY [1980] (Arrow Video) – A true labour of love, Edwin S. Brown’s highly-distinctive slice ’n’ dicer gets plenty of first-class treatment thanks to Arrow Video (and in particular Arrow’s Ewan Cant) in this lovingly-put-together and beautifully-restored BD package. Spread out over two discs, no stone is left unturned in this exhaustive set, which not only includes three (!) separate audio commentaries, but the film’s long-unseen International Cut as well. While not for all tastes, this remains one of the best and most impressive restorations of the year, which comes as a real godsend for fans of the film. Read review.

TOYS ARE NOT FOR CHILDREN [1972] (Arrow Video) – Although marketed as a sexploitation picture, director Stanley H. Brasslof’s film transcends that genre and remains a surprisingly dark and melancholic look at a woman’s damaged psyche. Avoiding all the usual sex film pitfalls, Brasslof’s haunting, meditative approach to the material is infinitely more memorable, and its effect lingers long after the film has finished. A hidden gem among Something Weird Video’s long line of Harry Novak acquisitions released as a Special Edition DVD (for which it was paired-up with Ron Garcia’s sex-horror weirdie THE TOY BOX [1971]), Brasslof’s film comes to Blu-ray in an excellent 2K transfer taken from original film elements. Included in the package are a number of worthy special features that both explore the film and pay tribute to Brasslof’s unique filmography, beginning with an audio commentary from Diabolique’s Kat Ellinger and Heather Drain, an on-camera interview with Nightmare USA author Stephen Thrower, plus a video essay from Alexandra Nicholas-Heller. Get it!

HAMMER VOLUME FOUR: FACES OF FEAR [1958 – 1968] (Indicator) – Even though the first three volumes of Indicator’s ongoing restorations of Hammer Films have been stellar to say the least, this fourth volume is the one everyone has been waiting for. Gathering together some of the studio’s best films, Indicator’s brand-new 4K scan of Terence Fisher’s THE REVENGE OF FRANKENSTEIN (1958) looks incredibly vibrant here with lush, colourful textures and stunning detail; it’s easily the best the film has ever looked, which goes a long way in further strengthening its already high pedigree. Difficult to see for years, Joseph Losey’s THE DAMNED (a.k.a. THESE ARE THE DAMNED, 1968), which is probably the true standout of this amazing box set, also looks spectacular here thanks to Indicator’s brand-new 2K scan. If you’ve seen the film before, you’ll know it as easily one of Hammer’s most thought-provoking and interesting offerings. Although both Terence Fisher’s THE TWO FACES OF DR. JEKYLL (1960) and Seth Holt’s thriller TASTE OF FEAR (a.k.a. SCREAM OF FEAR, 1962) are only afforded (quote) “High Definition remasters”, both films look superb nonetheless, restoring a luster not seen in earlier presentations. As usual, Indicator have loaded each disc with a number of illuminating audio commentaries, alternate presentations, documentaries, booklets and so much more, making this yet another essential, must-own box set. And while you’re at it, if you don’t have any of Indicator’s other Hammer sets yet, then do yourself a (big) favour and pick those up too! 

AN AMERICAN WEREWOLF IN LONDON [1981] (Arrow Video) – Previously released virtually countless times on home video, John Landis’ werewolf classic comes to Blu-ray once again in what can easily be labeled as its definitive release. Featuring an all-new 2019 restoration of the film taken from the original camera negative and a mind-boggling assortment of extra features, including Paul Davis’ feature-length documentary Beware the Moonand still another feature-length doc, Daniel Griffith’s Mark of the Beast: The Legacy of the Universal Werewolf. Housed in one of Arrow’s sturdy slipcases, this Limited Edition is remarkable indeed, so grab it before it disappears!

GODZILLA: THE SHOWA ERA FILMS, 1954 – 1975 (Criterion Collection) – Criterion have really gone all-out for this truly inspired undertaking—their 1000th release—a massive 8-disc set containing all fifteen of Toho’s Godzilla films from the so-called “Shōwa Era” (1954-1975), including everything from Ishirō Honda’s grim original (in two versions, no less!) up to his series swansong THE TERROR OF MECHAGODZILLA (1975). Including far too many extras to expound upon (including both the Japanese release version and the U.S. theatrical cut of Honda’s KING KONG VS. GODZILLA [1963]), plus some fascinating behind-the-scenes documentaries), this set will keep you entertained for weeks on end with its seemingly endless array of extra features. Stunningly designed with beautiful, eye-catching original artwork and housed within a giant over-sized book (which resembles a graphic novel or coffee-table book), this mammoth set singlehandedly proves that the market for physical media is still very much alive. 

MADIGAN [1968] (Kino Lorber Studio Classics) – Dan Madigan (Richard Widmark) and his partner Rocco (Harry Guardini) are a couple of NYC detectives who are on the lookout for Barney Benesch (Steve Inhat), an elusive, trigger-happy gangster, only to find themselves constantly at odds with the machinations of inter-departmental politics and bureaucracy. Another terrific effort from master filmmaker Don Siegel, MADIGAN reads very much like a transitional film, which treads the line between the studio pictures of the previous decade and the gritty realism of the ’Seventies cop dramas, which were right around the corner. Kino’s solid, studio-prepared transfer looks excellent, and the big highlight here is an audio commentary featuring Howard S. Berger, Steve Mitchell and Nathaniel Thompson, who provide a consistently entertaining first-hand look back at the film, which helps you to appreciate it all the more.  

DRACULA [1979] (Scream Factory) – Scream Factory had an incredibly busy year, but this 2-disc Blu-ray of John Badham’s epic, lavish cinematic adaptation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula was the highlight among their many riches. At long last, it contains the original ‘colour’ version of the film, which has been nearly impossible to see over the last few years. Of course, along with plenty of extra features, Badham’s preferred colour-drained, sepia version is also included, but in all honesty, you’ll never watch this version again, although it does serve as a good reminder of what a wrongheaded decision this unfortunate ‘aesthetic choice’ really was. 


HIGHLY HONOURABLE MENTIONS

ALICE, SWEET ALICE (Arrow Video), AMITYVILLE: THE CURSED COLLECTION (Vinegar Syndrome), ASSIGNMENT TERROR (Scorpion Releasing), ATTACK OF THE ROBOTS (Kino Lorber), THE BAD AND THE BEAUTIFUL (Warner Archive), BEATRICE CENCI (88 Films), BILLY THE KID VS. DRACULA (Kino Lorber Studio Classics), THE BLOB (Scream Factory), BLUE VELVET (Criterion Collection), THE BRAIN (Scream Factory), A BUCKET OF BLOOD (Olive Films / Signature Series), THE BUSHWHACKER / THE RAVAGER (American Arcana), THE CANDY SNATCHERS (Vinegar Syndrome), THE CORRUPTION OF CHRIS MILLER (Vinegar Syndrome), DAYS OF WINE AND ROSES (Warner Archive), EMANUELLE IN AMERICA (Mondo Macabro), HERCULES IN THE HAUNTED WORLD (Kino Lorber), THE FLY COLLECTION (Scream Factory), THE HILLS HAVE EYES PART 2 (Arrow Video), THE IGUANA WITH THE TONGUE OF FIRE (Arrow Video), IN THE HEAT OF THE NIGHT (Criterion Collection), INVASION OF THE BLOOD FARMERS (Severin Films), THE KILLER OF DOLLS (Mondo Macabro), MAGNIFICENT OBSESSION (Criterion Collection), THE MUMMY’S REVENGE (Scorpion Releasing), MURDERS IN THE RUE MORGUE (Scream Factory), THE NIGHTCOMERS (Kino Lorber Studio Classics), NOTORIOUS (Criterion Collection), OLDBOY(Arrow Video), THE PASSING (Vinegar Syndrome), ROBOCOP (Arrow Video / Limited Edition), SECTA SINIESTRA (Vinegar Syndrome), SPOOKIES (Vinegar Syndrome), TWO EVIL EYES (Blue Underground), WARLOCK (Twilight Time), WEREWOLF IN A GIRLS’ DORMITORY (Severin Films), WHO SAW HER DIE? (Arrow Video), YEAR OF THE DRAGON (Warner Archive), and finally, let’s not forget about Scream Factory’s ongoing dedication to famed British studio Hammer Films, which saw them release an astonishing 18 films onto Blu-ray in 2019 alone!

Tuesday, March 19, 2019

SCREAMS OF A WINTER NIGHT - BLU-RAY REVIEW

Following a lengthy hibernation from the home video market, James L. Wilson’s PG-rated horror anthology SCREAMS OF A WINTER NIGHT (1979) has finally resurfaced on Blu-ray thanks to Code Red, and not only does CR’s restoration look terrific, it also features the long-unseen director’s cut too.

Exceedingly simple in its set-up, SOAWN serves as an interesting bridge between the more innocent horrors of yesteryear and the splashier, gorier ingredients found in the slasher films of the ’80s. Although far from a polished production, the film is also refreshingly ambitious (the director’s cut runs just over 118m!) and atmospheric, highlighted by a palpable air of impending doom.

Five college couples led by John (Matt Borel) are heading to his parents’ long-abandoned woodland cabin for a winter weekend getaway. Located on Lake Durand, which is better-known under the more colourful name of Coyote Lake (quote) “because of the weird noise the wind makes”, and according to an ancient Indian legend, this remote area is also supposedly home to ‘Shabata’, a (quote) “very evil, very powerful spirit”, which allegedly wreaked havoc in the past—a legend which Matt sneakily plans on exploiting for one of his (quote) “great stories”. 

Settling-in for the night, everyone sits around the fire drinking beer, and, thanks to Matt’s persistence, ‘entertain’ each other with a number of scary stories. These begin with Matt’s ‘The Moss Point Man’, an undemanding tale about a young couple who are terrorized by a strange sasquatch-type beast after their car breaks-down on a desolate woodland road. Next up, Matt’s friend Steve (Gil Glasgow) gets in on the act, telling a tale about an old—and supposedly haunted, natch—hotel, which is used for a fraternity initiation when three pledges are ordered to spend the night there, with uniquely disastrous results. In the third story (the one that was missing from Dimension Pictures’ original theatrical prints), Lauri (Jan Norton) reminiscences about an old Catholic cemetery in her hometown, which is haunted by the spirit of an old witch named Lorraine. “I think everyone is letting their imagination run away with them!” exclaims Elaine (Mary Agen Cox), the lone cynic amongst the group, who relates a far different tale about a young woman who, following an attempted rape, suddenly snaps and becomes a knife-wielding killer. So engrossed are they in their storytelling that the group fail to notice the howling and increasingly violent wind outside the cabin…

One of the more unique anthology films, SOAWN’s rudimentary premise is well-anchored by the film’s overall uncanny atmosphere, which commences in terrifying style. Simple, non-distracting white credits on a black screen unfold over the sounds of what seems to be a family besieged by screeching howls, deafening winds and their subsequent screams of terror (“John, it’s back! Don’t go out there!”); it’s an imposing and gripping opener, which sets the ominous tone wonderfully. In yet another cleverly novel concept, the four stories (which do build the film’s dramatic tension nicely) are also cast with the same actors from the wraparound story, which takes up quite a sizable portion of the film’s running time and actually turns out to be far more riveting than some of the story segments themselves.

Shot in and around Natchitoches, Louisiana, the isolated wooded locales, heavy with Spanish moss-covered, cypress swamp trees that are so prevalent to the area, add immeasurably to the film, especially during some of the cost-effective day-for-night photography. In an early scene at an out-of-the-way gas station (a typical horror movie trope), local colour is provided by William Ragsdale in an early role (the actor would go on to star in Tom Holland’s essential ’80s horror classic, FRIGHT NIGHT [1986]), and, according to an interview with actor Gil Glasgow (found elsewhere on this disc), the rather striking ‘giant’ seen lumbering around the gas station was actually the local real-life sheriff. 

Prior to Code Red’s Region A Blu-ray, the only game in town—outside of shoddy bootlegs—was VCI’s long out-of-print VHS videocassette of the theatrical version, which was issued in both a standard slipcase edition and in a large clamshell box, both of which commanded large sums of money within the collector’s market, but whose dark and murky panned-and-scanned transfers left a lot to be desired. Released earlier this year, Code Red’s long-awaited Blu-ray of this oft-requested title is taken from a (quote) “brand new 2K scan of the original 16mm A/B roll camera negative of the never-before-seen uncut 124-minute director’s edition”, which is presented in a 1.78:1 aspect ratio and, despite some inherent damage here and there, it’s miles better than its videotape predecessor and far easier on the eyes especially during many of the aforementioned day-for-night scenes. It should also be noted that, despite the “124-minute” running time listed on the packaging, this director’s cut actually only runs 118m44s. In terms of audio, the DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track also sounds quite good, which not only enhances the various and—all-important—sound effects, but Don Zimmers' effective score as well.  

The BD’s extras kick-off with an on-camera interview with actor Gil Glasgow (21m33s), during which he discusses how he initially became involved in the project, as well as discussing the film’s locations and the rest of the cast, plus the multiple characters they played and how James L. Wilson and writer / producer Richard H. Wadsack (quote) “were very hands-on, and learning as they went.” As an extra bonus, Code Red have also seen fit to include the truncated original theatrical version (91m29s), which was mastered from a worn print with duller colours and lots more print damage. It nevertheless makes for a terrific and welcome addition to the package. A rough-looking TV spot for the film finishes off the extras, along with a number of TV spots and trailers for some of Code Red’s other available and/or upcoming titles, including Eddy Matalon’s BLACKOUT (1978) and Lucio Fulci’s CONQUEST (1983). 

Although not out-of-print, Code Red’s SCREAMS OF A WINTER NIGHT is only intermittently available through the Dark Force Superstore, so keep trying!

Sunday, December 30, 2018

UNPOPPED CINEMA'S TOP 20 BEST DISCS OF 2018

As streaming sites continue to evolve (many times notfor the better, sad to say), it becomes increasingly difficult to predict what movies will suddenly disappear from their ever-changing sites / playlists and, even though they do still offer plenty to enjoy in terms of original programming, film preservation is certainly far from their first prerogative. Thankfully, independent Blu-ray companies (and the odd big studio label, such as The Warner Archive Collection) continue to ‘fill the gap’ by offering superb restorations of either important classics such as Christian Nyby’s / Howard Hawks’ THE THING (1951) or previously-forgotten / barely-released films such as J. Lee Thompson’s THE REINCARNATION OF PETER PROUD (1975). It’s definitely a great time to be a film fan, and without such companies as AGFA, Arrow Video, Blue Underground, Code Red, The Criterion Collection, Indicator, Kino Lorber Studio Classics, Massacre Video, Mondo Macabro, Olive Films, Scorpion Releasing, Scream Factory, Severin, Twilight Time, Vinegar Syndrome, The Warner Archive Collection and Wild East Productions, it’s doubtful many of these films would ever get released at all; for that, we should be forever grateful. The titles on disc listed below are a mere fractionof this year’s highlights, all of which come highly recommended, of course.

NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD [1968] (The Criterion Collection) – An undisputed classic, which, during the infancy of the home video boom at least, suffered from a number of poor transfers in indifferent releases by numerous cheapo fly-by-night companies who were merely capitalizing on the film’s public domain status. In 1994, Elite Entertainment provided the film with its first real restoration on laserdisc, and since then, NOTLD has appeared on numerous DVD labels, including Elite, Anchor Bay and even Miramax’s subsidiary, Dimension Extreme. And while most of these editions were fine, nothing can compare to Criterion’s 2-disc Blu-ray set, which not only features a stellar (quote) “4K digital restoration”, but also includes a workprint version entitled NIGHT OF ANUBIS, never-before-seen 16mm dailies, a number of interviews with the cast and crew, commentary tracks, a 2012 TIFF event hosted by former Midnight Madness programmer Colin Geddes, and so much more. A truly stupendous set, which is also beautifully packaged in one of Criterion’s fold-out digipacks. Needless to say, an absolute must-have!

THREADS [1984] (Severin) – Only shown sparingly on U.S. television, this haunting U.K.-based ‘nuclear panic’ drama has finally received the recognition it deserves thanks to Severin’s newly-restored, special edition Blu-ray. Shown in its intended 1.33:1 aspect ratio, the gritty, documentary-like approach is nicely preserved in Severin’s transfer and only adds to the film’s foreboding and unforgiving nature. Of course, Severin also includes a number of illuminating extras, beginning with an indispensable audio commentary by the film’s director, Mick Jackson, which is expertly moderated by Severin’s David Gregory and author Kier-La Janisse. The disc also includes a number of extra featurettes, including one with the film’s DP, Andrew Dunn. And for those wishing to really splurge, Severin have also issued the film as a limited edition Blu-ray with a lenticular cover. As the film’s tagline proclaims, it’s “the closest you’ll ever want to come to nuclear war!” I couldn’t agree more. Devastating and unforgettable!

THE INCIDENT [1967] (Twilight Time) – Never issued on DVD in the U.S. or Canada, Larry Peerce’s THE INCIDENT stars Tony Musante (in an electrifying debut) and Martin Sheen as a pair of ne’er-do-well troublemakers who board a New York City subway train and proceed to terrorize everyone thereon. A simple premise, which is grounded by a number of terrific, first-rate performances from the likes of Jack Gilford, Thelma Ritter, Ed McMahon, Diana Van der Vlis, Brock Peters, Jan Sterling and others. The stark B&W photography courtesy of Gerald Hirschfeld also adds immensely to the film’s grittiness and unflinching realism. TT’s disc contains a stunning transfer of this long-difficult-to-see film, which also includes an audio commentary from director Peerce moderated by Nick Redman. Needless to say, this limited edition (3000 copies) disc is likely to sell out in no time, so grab it while you can, as it’s well worth your investment.

ALMOST HUMAN [1974] (Code Red) – Despite directing a vast array of films from many different genres, director Umberto Lenzi has become best-known to those who care about such things (we at Unpopped very much included!) for his numerous Italocrime films, of which ALMOST HUMAN certainly ranks at the top while crawling along the gutters of crime-ridden Milan. Showcasing a jittery, paranoid, no-holds-barred performance from Tomas Milian and co-starring Henry Silva as the exasperated, outspoken commissario out to get him, this actioner barrels right along, ably aided-and-abetted by Ennio Morricone’s hard-hitting score. Previously available on DVD from No Shame Films, Code Red’s Blu-ray includes a superb HD transfer of the film, plus ports-over all of the extras from No Shame’s long-out-of-print DVD. As an added welcome bonus, Code Red have also seen fit to include Joseph Brenner’s U.S. edit in an appropriately beat-up scope print. WOW!! Read review.

NO DOWN PAYMENT [1957] (Twilight Time) – From producer Jerry Wald, who seemed to specialize in these ’50s-era ‘soaps’ (Mark Robson’s PEYTON PLACE [1957] and Jean Negulesco’s THE BEST OF EVERYTHING [1959] are a couple of noteworthy others), NO DOWN PAYMENT is director Martin Ritt’s look at suburbia, in particular the lives of four couples living in Sunrise Hills, a new Californian housing development. Pat Hingle (who would later appear in Ritt’s NORMA RAE [1979]) and Barbara Rush (from Nicholas Ray’s BIGGER THAN LIFE [1956]) are the standouts here, giving beautiful, multi-nuanced performances, but that’s not to say that everyone else isn’t fantastic too; also including stunning thesping from Tony Randall, Joanne Woodward and Cameron Mitchell, whose work not only draw attention to the allure of suburban life, but reveals many of the underlying secrets and/or imperfections associated with this supposedly, picture-perfect, squeaky-clean lifestyle. The slick B&W scope cinematography by Joseph LaShelle (he also shot Ritt’s THE LONG, HOT SUMMER [1958] the following year) looks dazzling on TT’s disc, which only further enhances the dreariness and thinly-veiled sordidity of these quickly-constructed neighbourhoods.

DEATH SMILES ON A MURDERER [1973] (Arrow Video) – Joe D’Amato’s first official directorial debut (which he signed under his real name of Aristide Massaccesi) has suffered from a number low-grade, bootlegs over the years, but thanks to Arrow Video this latter-day Italo-Gothic has finally been given some much-needed respect with a spectacular 2K transfer taken from the original camera negative. The disc also includes a highly informative audio commentary from Tim Lucas, a nicely-produced on-camera interview / documentary about the film’s star, Ewa Aulin; a video essay by Kat Ellinger, and a most-welcome 43-page liner booklet with writing from Stephen Thrower and Roberto Curti, plus a previously-unpublished interview with the film’s assistant director, Romano Scandariato. What more do ya need?! Read review.

THE REINCARNATION OF PETER PROUD [1975] (Kino Lorber Studio Classics) – Bypassing DVD altogether, J. Lee Thompson’s supernatural thriller had remained unavailable on home video since its long-gone VHS release from Vestron Video, so kudos to Kino for finally digging this out of the Paramount vaults! Transferred in 4K from the film’s original camera negative, Kino’s Blu-ray looks wonderful, with deep blacks and excellent detail throughout; a far-cry from Vestron’s muddy, pan-’n’-scan old tape! Kino have also included some choice extras, including an audio commentary from author and film historian Lee Gambin, who always has plenty of interesting things to say that reveal all sorts of interesting nuggets, and whose enthusiasm is always appreciated! Other extras include comparisons between the censored and uncensored scenes of Margot Kidder’s bathtub sequence, a number of stills galleries showcasing the film’s promotional materials, as well as trailers and numerous TV spots. It’s great to have this once-forgotten flick back in active circulation again! 

COMBAT SHOCK [1984] (Severin) – Buddy Giovinazzo’s unflinching portrait of a severely traumatized Vietnam vet has lost none of its power over the years and this Limited Edition Blu-ray certainly proves it! Scanned in 4K and including the full AMERICAN NIGHTMARE version, the disc also comes fully-loaded with extras. As an added bonus, Severin have also included the film’s first-ever soundtrack release on CD, original film frames from Buddy’s workprint, an autographed slipcover and a 96-page American Nightmares Scrapbook featuring the film’s shooting script, Buddy’s shooting diary and numerous on-set photos! Hard-hitting and fraught with desperation, Buddy G’s film continues to be an unnerving slice of cinema, and thanks to Severin, it can finally be viewed the way it was meant to be seen!

WHO CAN KILL A CHILD? [1976] (Mondo Macabro) – 2018 was a very busy year for MM, with a number of outstanding releases from them. To be honest, just about everything they release deserves to be on this list, but Narciso Ibáñez Serrador’s WHO CAN KILL A CHILD? (previously issued on DVD by Dark Sky Films) was the standout for me. MM’s new 4K transfer from the film’s negative is really quite a sight to behold and looks flawless and, to top it all off, the film is playable in no less than four (4) different versions (!), which include the full-length uncut version in both English and Spanish (with newly-translated English subtitles), as well as an alternate English version and AIP (American International Pictures)’s truncated ISLAND OF THE DAMNED stateside release version. Extras includes a wonderful audio commentary from Samm Deighan and Kat Ellinger, who not only discuss the film in question, but also Serrador’s long—and continuing—career in television. Numerous featurettes with the film’s director and DP José Luis Alcaine are also included, and for those lucky folks who scored themselves a Limited Edition ‘Red Case’ copy, it also contains mini-reproductions of the U.S. lobby card set and a nicely-illustrated booklet featuring an excellent essay by scribe Lee Gambin. Essential!

THE COMPLETE SARTANA [1968 – 1970] (Arrow Video) – One of the many antiheroes who populated the world of spaghetti westerns, although Gianni Garko had played an otherwise unrelated villainous character named Sartana in “Albert Cardiff”/Alberto Cardone’s $1,000 ON THE BLACK (a.k.a. BLOOD AT SUNDOWN [1966]), Garko was first ‘officially’ introduced as a new character named Sartana in “Frank Kramer”/Gianfranco Parolini’s IF YOU MEET SARTANA… PRAY FOR YOUR DEATH (1968), and he is the actor most-associated with the title role (although George Hilton and other performers also tried their hands at Sartana’s persona, with various degrees of success). Of course, there were many subsequent—often in-name-only—rip-off’s (some good, some, um, not so good), but Arrow Video only includes the five official films, and for the record, they include Parolini’s aforementioned film as well as Giuliano Carnimeo’s (directing under his usual “Anthony Ascott” pseudonym) I AM SARTANA YOUR ANGEL OF DEATH (1969), HAVE A GOOD FUNERAL MYFRIEND… SARTANA WILL PAY (1970), LIGHT THE FUSE… SARTANA IS COMING (1970) and SARTANA’S HERE… TRADEYOUR PISTOL FOR A COFFIN (1970), with George Hilton assuming Sartana’s handle/mantle for that lattermost title. Each series entry is allotted its own separate Blu-ray and, outside of the first entry (which was transferred from a film chain and looks the weakest of the lot, but is still miles better than anything previously released), all the films look spectacular and include a multitude of extras. A thick booklet, which includes writing from author Roberto Curti, is also included. A truly wonderful—and essential—collection, this is!

LAST HOUSE ON THE LEFT [1972] (Arrow Video) – So many different editions and different versions of this oft-controversial film have come and gone over the years that it has become virtually impossible to choose the definitive one, but the fine folks at Arrow Video may have managed just that! A truly stupendous Blu-ray set in all respects, Arrow’s impressive 2K restoration looks fabulous, especially given the film’s low-budget origins and the grainy 16mm film stock, which also includes all three extant versions: the unrated one, the alternate KRUG & COMPANY cut, as well as the R-rated cut, spread over two Blu-rays. A massive amount of extras are also included, which are far too numerous to list here, but some of the standouts include a newly-recorded audio commentary with Bill Ackerman and Amanda Reyes from the Supporting Characters and Made for TV Mayhem podcasts, who both do stellar work here, shedding even more light on this significant film. David Gregory’s revealing doc Celluloid: Crime of the Centuryis once again included, as are a number of new and existing docs, location tours, over 45-minutes (!) of outtakes and dailies, plus tons more. Additionally, the film is packaged in one of Arrow’s sturdy hardboxes, which includes a thick booklet with writing from Nightmare USA’s Stephen Thrower, a doubled-sided poster, lobby-card repros and reversible artwork. Truly outstanding!

GIALLO IN VENICE [1979] (Scorpion Releasing) – Easily the most notorious giallo of them all, Mario Landi’s film gets a (quote) “brand new 2018 HD scan”, which is a real eye-opener for anyone who has suffered through all those dreadful bootlegs over the years. While it’s not the prettiest film to look at, the new-and-improved transfer makes a world of difference, and to top it all off, it’s uncut as well. Even though extras are limited, a fun, fact-filled audio commentary with author Troy Howarth is also included. The disc also includes reversible artwork, a nicely-illustrated—and appropriately lurid!—slipcover courtesy of Devon Whitehead, and a collectible poster too. Read review.

MEMORIES WITHIN MISS AGGIE [1974] (Vinegar Syndrome) – Difficult to see for years, especially in something even resembling a decent version, Gerard Damiano’s horror-infused psychosexual shocker receives the red-carpet treatment by VS. One of the more compelling hardcore films to emerge from the era of “porno chic”, VS’ new 2K transfer taken from 16mm archival elements brings out much of the film’s oppressive atmosphere, and is just about perfect, considering the film’s humble origins. A short-but-excellent poster/still gallery is also included with numerous articles related to the film’s controversial theatrical run, as well as a video-sourced trailer, whose lesser quality makes you truly appreciate just how good everything looks now. The initial 1000 print-run (now OOP) also included a collectible slipcover. Read review.

INVASION OF THE BODY SNATCHERS [1957] (Olive Films) – With its potent and frightening themes of total collectivist dehumanization and loss of individual identity, this film remains as highly topical/relevant today as it ever was, if not even more-so. In what was surely one of the more anticipated releases of the year, Olive lent Don Siegel’s enduring sci-fi classic their ‘Signature Series’ treatment with a fine-looking HD transfer and a wealth of special features, many of which have been lying dormant since Paramount’s proposed DVD in 2006. These extras included excellent interviews with the film’s stars Kevin McCarthy and Dana Wynter, both of whom have since passed away, and there’s a terrific audio commentary (also recorded in 2006) with McCarthy, Wynter and celebrated film director Joe Dante. Numerous other worthy extras are also included, which only sweetens the deal.

NIGHT OF THE DEMON [1957] (Indicator) – An absolutely stunning, topnotch 2-disc Blu-ray set that is a necessity for anyone’s collection! Based on M.R. James’ short story “Casting the Runes” (1911), superb filmmaking makes this a true gem if ever there was one. Indicator have really outdone themselves with this magnificent release of Jacques Tourneur’s occult masterpiece by including six (yes, SIX!) different editions of the film, along with so many extras it’ll make your head spin. 

THE BLOOD ISLAND COLLECTION [1959 – 1970] (Severin) – Encompassing not only Gerardo de Leon’s and Eddie Romero’s BRIDES OF BLOOD (1968) and MAD DOCTOR OF BLOOD ISLAND (1968), as well as Romero’s BEAST OF BLOOD ([1970] that is only available in this boxset), the three official films which constitute the “Blood Island” trilogy, Severin’s impressive set also includes de Leon’s and Romero’s TERROR IS A MAN (a.k.a. BLOOD CREATURE [1959]), their ‘downsized’ if nonetheless effective and atmospheric take on H.G. Wells’ influential 1896 novel The Island of Dr. Moreau. Amazing transfers (including a stunning 4K transfer of MAD DOCTOR taken from the original camera negative) highlight much of this collection, with each film looking far better than any previous release(s), and of course, Severin also provides plenty of extras, including documentaries, commentaries, trailers and lots more! The initial 3500 print-run has already sold out, so if you luck into one at an old brick-and-mortar store or online for a decent price, snap it up!

TAKE IT OUT IN TRADE [1970] (AGFA / Something Weird Video) – Long thought to be lost, approximately 70 minutes of outtakes from this Edward D. Wood Jr. film were released onto VHS videocassette by SWV in 1995, but according to the audio commentary on this disc by director Frank Henenlotter, author and Ed Wood biographer Rudolph Grey and AGFA’s Joseph A. Ziemba, the only known 16mm print was obtained from actor / stuntman Ray “Crash” Corrigan’s son. The disc also includes the aforementioned outtakes and a decent 2K scan of Joseph F. Robertson’s THE LOVE FEAST (1969), which also co-stars cult poverty row filmmaker Ed Wood. A nice booklet with liner notes from Grey is also included in the package. 


THE MAGNIFICENT AMBERSONS [1942] (The Criterion Collection) – Thanks to the imprudent studio bosses at RKO, Orson Welles’ film will never be reconstructed into its original form, but Criterion’s Blu-ray is yet another ‘magnificent’ 4K transfer of this heavily-compromised masterpiece, which, even in its bowdlerized version still leaves us so much to enjoy from the performances (Agnes Moorehead received an Oscar nod), Bernard Hermann’s music and the fluid photography. Lots of fascinating extras (including a 57-page booklet) are included, which further establishes Welles’ unfortunate luck with RKO. 

THE THING FROM ANOTHER WORLD [1951] (Warner Archive Collection) – Christian Nyby’s and Howard Hawks’ tremendous, ground-breaking sci-fi film—one of the earliest ‘alien invasion’ outings—arrives on Blu-ray in a first-rate transfer without any of the noticeable quality disruptions seen in previous versions. Although it’s a relatively bare-bones disc boasting only a couple of trailers (the original and a rerelease trailer), this new-and-improved transfer comes as a real revelation. 

ZOMBIE [1979] (Blue Underground) – Pretty much available since the dawn of home video on a number of different formats from a whole slew of labels, Lucio Fulci’s most-iconic achievement has recently been released in what shall quite likely remain the definitive version. This 3-Disc Limited Edition (offering three different slipcovers to choose from!) assembles together extras from BU’s earlier 2-disc Ultimate Edition along with a number of new ones, including an audio commentary with Splintered Visions author Troy Howarth, plus a newly-shot on-camera interview with Beyond Terror author Stephen Thrower. And not only that, but you also get Fabio Frizzi’s complete soundtrack on an extra CD too! Read review.

HIGHLY HONOURABLE MENTIONS. 

ALICE, SWEET, ALICE (88 Films), BASKET CASE (Arrow Video), BEWARE THE BRETHREN (Vinegar Syndrome), BLOODLUST (Mondo Macabro), THE BLOODTHIRSTY TRILOGY (Arrow Video), BLUE COLLAR (Indicator – Region B), CHARLEY VARRICK (Indicator - Region B), THE CHANGELING (Severin), THE CHILDREN (Vinegar Syndrome), CITY OF THE LIVING DEAD (Arrow Video – Region B), CREEPSHOW (Scream Factory), DEATH LAID AN EGG (Nucleus), THE DEVIL INCARNATE (Mondo Macabro), EATEN ALIVE (Severin), EMANUELLE AND THE LAST CANNIBALS (Severin), ENTER THE DEVIL (Massacre Video), THE EXECUTION SQUAD (Al!ve / AG Films), EYEBALL (88 Films), FIVE TALL TALES: BUDD BOETTICHER & RANDOLPH SCOTT AT COLUMBIA, 1957-1960 (Indicator), GAMES (Scream Factory), GODMONSTER OF INDIAN FLATS (AGFA / Something Weird Video), GOLD (Kino Lorber Studio Classics), THE GRISSOM GANG (Kino Lorber Studio Classics), HAMMER VOLUME TWO: CRIMINAL INTENT (Indicator), THE HIRED HAND (Arrow Academy), THE HOT ROCK (Twilight Time), IMAGES (Arrow Academy), THE INCUBUS (Vinegar Syndrome), LADY FRANKENSTEIN (Nucleus), MANIAC (Blue Underground / 3-disc Limited Edition), A MATTER OF LIFE AND DEATH (The Criterion Collection), MAUSOLEUM (Vinegar Syndrome),  MURDER ROCK (Scorpion Releasing), ORGIES OF EDO (Arrow Video), PERVERSION STORY (Mondo Macabro), REQUIEM FOR GRINGO (Wild East Productions), SHAMPOO (The Criterion Collection), THE SADIST OF NOTRE DAME (Severin), THE SATANIC RITES OF DRACULA (Warner Archive Collection),SHOCKING DARK (Severin), SINFONIA EROTICA (Severin), SISTERS (The Criterion Collection), SNOWBEAST (Retromedia), THE SWINGING BARMAIDS (Code Red), THE TREE OF LIFE (The Criterion Collection), THE TRUE STORY OF JESSE JAMES (Twilight Time), THE VAMPIRE AND THE BALLERINA (Scream Factory), THE WASP WOMAN (Scream Factory), WILLIAM CASTLE AT COLUMBIA, VOLUME ONE (Indicator) and ZOMBIE 3 (Severin).