UNPOPPED CINEMA’S TOP 25 BEST 4K AND BLU-RAY DISCS OF 2024

This was another transformational year for Blu-rays and 4K discs, which proves once again that physical media continues to flourish, even in today’s predominantly driven collector’s market. Thanks to essential, hard-working ‘boutique’ labels at the forefront of this ‘golden age’ of physical media, we have seen immaculate 4K discs of much-beloved ’80s classics like Robert Harmon’s THE HITCHER (1986) from Second Sight Films, several stunningly curated box sets like Severin Films’ ALL THE HAUNTS BE OURS – A COMPENDIUM OF FOLK HORROR VOLUME 2, and an abundance of previously unreleased and/or highly-requested films like Michael Mann’s THE KEEP (1983) from Vinegar Syndrome, to name just a few. It’s been an amazing year, so without further delay, let’s dig in and take a look at Unpopped Cinema’s favourite 4K and Blu-ray discs of 2024!

 

ALL THE HAUNTS BE OURS – A COMPENDIUM OF FOLK HORROR VOLUME 2 [1952 – 2024] (Severin Films) – As remarkable and thorough as Severin’s first folk horror box set was, their second volume (again curated by the amazing and seemingly tireless Kier-La Janisse) turns out to be even more impressive. Spread out over 13-discs, this latest set collects together another staggering array of folk horror films (including a couple of productions made specifically for this set) from all over the world, which are sure to please and surprise even the most jaded cinephiles. Some of the many highlights include new restorations of undeniable classics like John Llewellyn Moxey’s THE CITY OF THE DEAD (a.k.a. HORROR HOTEL, 1960) and Don Sharp’s PSYCHOMANIA (1973), alongside several previously unseen treasures, which include Yoshihiro Ishikawa’s BAKENEKO: A VENGEFUL SPIRIT (1968),  Mike De Leon’s THE RITES OF MAY (1976) from the Philippines, Sisworo Gautama Putra’s Indonesian SUNDELBOLONG (1981) with the amazing Suzzanna (who is even afforded a feature-length documentary in David Gregory’s SUZZANNA: THE QUEEN OF BLACK MAGIC [2024]), Gwaai Edenshaw’s and Helen Haig-Brown’s Canadian EDGE OF THE KNIFE (2018), the “world’s first Haida-language feature film”, and plenty more besides! Of course, all of the features also include a bounty of special features (which are too numerous to mention) to help contextualize the mythos of each film and their place within the world of folk horror. And if that weren’t enough, this attractively-designed box set also includes a booklet with detailed information on each film, and a 252-page (!) hardcover book, which collects “newly-commissioned folk horror fiction” from writers that include Kim Newman, Ramsey Campbell, and Eden Royce, to name just a few. Exceptional in every way, this easily ranks as one of, if not, the best release of the year!

                                                                                                                                                                                            

BLONDE ON A BUM TRIP [1968] (Distribpix, Inc.) – One of the most jaw-dropping sexploitation films to come out of the Distribpix vaults, this extraordinary bit of New York lensed counterculture tells a fairly conventional story of an innocent girl who gets mixed-up with the wrong crowd, but director Raf Mauro and writers Ed Adlum (director of INVASION OF THE BLOOD FARMERS [1972]) and Jack Bravman instill their film with an unforgettably heady atmosphere and plenty of lascivious behaviour: drug parties, lots of simulated sex, choice dialogue (“Sock it to me, baby!”), and several catchy songs from the likes of The E-Types, The Vagrants, and Bit A’Sweet make this sexploitation scare film one of the best of the bunch. As with Distribpix’s earlier release of Michael Findlay’s THE FLESH TRILOGY, viewers will be gobsmacked at the picture-perfect clarity of the 4K scan, which also comes packed with a ton of magnificently enlightening special features including a pair of audio commentaries with Adlum and Mauro (moderated by the late great Howie Pyro) and one with Bravman and Distribpix’s Steven Morowitz. Other extras include a few LSD scare films from the SWV vaults, the film’s theatrical trailer and a thick booklet with writing from Pyro and Something Weird Video’s Lisa Petrucci. And let’s not forget about Distribpix’s other must-have collaborations with SWV from 2024, which include the Joe Sarno double-feature THE BED AND HOW TO MAKE IT (1966) and NUDE IN CHARCOAL (1961), and their triple feature RON SULLIVAN: THE EARLY YEARS. Do yourself a favour, and grab those too!

BLOOD-A-RAMA TRIPLE FRIGHTMARE II [1964 – 1966] (AGFA) – Following their first BLOOD-A-RAMA TRIPLE FRIGHTMARE Blu-ray from 2021, AGFA’s real coup here is the restoration of the once thought-to-be-lost uncut version of Richard S. Flink’s and Gordon H. Heaver's ‘gore’ film LOVE GODDESSES OF BLOOD ISLAND (a.k.a. SIX SHE’S AND A HE, 1964), which was made in the wake of Herschell Gordon Lewis’ BLOOD FEAST (1963). Previously available as an incomplete version only (the film first showed up as an excerpt on Something Weird Video’s double feature DVD of William Grefe’s DEATH CURSE OF TARTU [1966] and STING OF DEATH [1966]), the missing elements were recently located at the Library of Congress (thanks to Vinegar Syndrome’s Joe Rubin) while another 35mm print was being stored at the Harvard Film Archive! Add to all this, newly-remastered editions of T.L.P. Swicegood’s THE UNDERTAKER AND HIS PALS (1966) and Richard W. Bomont’s sadistic short subject FOLLOW THAT SKIRT (1965), along with a bevy of trailers, intermission shorts and “drive-in snipes” (which can also be watched in one long uninterrupted program), and you’ve got a treasure-trove of weird delights in the best tradition of Something Weird Video’s heyday.

 

BLOODLINE [1979] (Vinegar Syndrome Labs) – Based upon Sidney Sheldon’s novel of the same name, this was one of Audrey Hepburn’s last starring roles, which saw her reunite with her WAIT UNTIL DARK (1967) director Terence Young. A big budget giallo whodunit, BLOODLINE weaves a decidedly intricate web, where just about everybody involved has got a dirty secret or even a dusty skeleton (sometimes even two) hanging in their closet. When pharmaceutical magnate Sam Roffe dies during a mountain climbing ‘accident’ in Switzerland, his estranged daughter (Audrey Hepburn) becomes her father’s successor as president of a vast business empire, but when she decides not to sell off the company, her “jet-set” cousins, who also have their eyes on the fortune, try to convince her otherwise as a killer tries to whittle down the opposition. Despite the film’s poor critical notices and some rather ridiculous scripting, this still manages to be an absorbing and highly entertaining picture with a plot that is simple enough, even with all the ulterior motives, blind ambition and blackmail set within the film’s large canvas. Plus, the large cast of veteran stars which include Ben Gazzara, James Mason, Romy Schneider, Omar Sharif, Irene Papas, and Gert Frobe, doesn’t hurt the film’s entertainment value one bit. Long-unavailable on North American home video, VS have really come to the rescue of this fascinating – but equally flawed – film with a gorgeous 4K transfer taken from the original camera negative, which allows Freddie Young’s photography to shine in all its splendour. On the extras front, Mondo Digital’s Nathaniel Thompson and author Troy Howarth also provide one of their many detailed audio commentaries, alongside a couple on-camera interviews with the film’s second assistant director and stunt driver. However, the most surprising extra is the inclusion of the long-unseen 141-minute television version, which goes a long way to help better explain some of the film’s more convoluted plotlines. While not for everyone, it’s great to have this back in circulation and looking so good. 

 

THE CASE OF THE BLOODY IRIS [1972] (Celluloid Dreams) – Easily ranking with the very best of its kind, this wonderful Italian giallo made its worldwide 4KUHD debut earlier this year as Celluloid Dreams’ inaugural release, which looks nothing short of phenomenal. Porting over all of the special features from Shameless’ 2018 Blu-ray, CD have also included a newly-filmed interview with the film’s writer Ernesto Gastaldi, a thorough image gallery, and an outstanding audio commentary from CD’s Guido Henkel. An easy buy for fans and newcomers alike, Celluloid Dreams’ debut release is a real knockout which comes highly recommended! Read review.

 

FORGOTTEN GIALLI – VOLUME 7 [1983 – 1987] (Vinegar Syndrome) – In what is perhaps one of their more interesting collections in this long-running series, VS brings together Carlo Vanzina’s MYSTERE (1983), Piccio Raffanini’s OBSESSION – A TASTE FOR FEAR (1987) and Franco Ferrini’s SWEETS FROM A STRANGER (1987), a trio of distinctive and equally ambitious gialli from the ’80s, which effectively demonstrate how some of this material can be spun in new and exciting ways. Packaged in one of their customary hard boxes, this superb 3-disc set comes equipped with insightful audio commentaries, and a multitude of on-camera interviews, which even include directors Raffanini, Ferrini, and Carlos’ brother Enrico, and go a long way to help better appreciate these once truly “forgotten gialli.” Read review.

 

THE GAME OF CLONES – BRUCEPLOITATION COLLECTION VOL. 1 [1974 – 1984] (Severin Films) - With the sudden passing of actor Bruce Lee in 1973, who was on the cusp of worldwide superstardom, and whose last film, Robert Clouse’s ENTER THE DRAGON (1973) had just hit theatres, seldom have filmmakers and distributors sought so earnestly to take advantage of – and even camouflage - Bruce Lee’s death with a seemingly endless stream of rip-offs, spin-offs and wannabe sequels, which have since become known as Bruceploitation films. Capped off by David Gregory’s ENTER THE CLONES OF BRUCE (2023), a fascinating deep-dive documentary on the subject, this 8-disc, 14-film box set (co-curated by martial artist, actor, and Bruceploitation Bible head honcho Michael Worth and Hong Kong film historian Frank Djeng) finally sheds some light on these highly-entertaining kung fu films with an embarrassment of riches in the form of audio commentaries and several expertly-produced special features, which easily makes this superb box set one of the very best releases of the year! Read the review in three parts here (1), here (2), and here (3).

 

HANDGUN [1983] (Fun City Editions) – The alluring mystique of the Gun and the empowerment it endows to the powerless was by no means a new topic to Hollywood, as evidenced in Michael Winner’s treatise on gun violence in the original DEATH WISH (1974). Proceeding from a similar fundamental basis (albeit from the opposite political viewpoint), Tony Garnett’s thought-provoking HANDGUN (a.k.a. DEEP IN THE HEART) stars Karen Young as Kathleen, a schoolteacher from Boston who has accepted a new job in Dallas. When she is set up with a successful lawyer and eligible bachelor named Larry (Clayton Day), who believes in Texas’ social climate of justifying the use of a gun for defense or person, family, and property, his outwardly friendly demeanour soon changes for the worse when she rejects his advances, and he takes what he wants at gunpoint. Of course, as further threats increase, so do Karen’s protective measures, which sees her half-heartedly purchase a gun (an obvious illustration of the dangers this form of self-defense entails), who then proves to be a natural born marksman, exceeding most of the men at the local sharpshooting range. While HANDGUN has all the earmarks of a typical revenge-meller, British director Garnett has a very different viewpoint in this socio-politically aware drama, which is skillfully anchored by Karen Young’s naturalistic performance and her steadily mounting apprehension, even as she seeks revenge. Although extras are rather light, Fun City have included a solid audio commentary from film historians Erica Shultz and Chris O’Neill, a brief archival interview with the director, and an excellent booklet with writing from the always astute Alexandra Heller-Nicholas. 

 

HIGH CRIME [1973] (Blue Underground) – In addition to being ace action director Enzo G. Castellari’s (a.k.a. Enzo Girolami) inaugural Eurocrime outing, HIGH CRIME became a huge box office success in Italy and other parts of Europe, and, as with Stefano Vanzina’s THE EXECUTION SQUAD (1972), was a major influence on a whole wave of ’70s Italian cop films (especially those starring Maurizio Merli, whose career it launched via VIOLENT ROME). In this way-above-par effort, Franco Nero stars as Commissioner Belli, an enraged squadra volonte (“Flying Squad”) cop who is on the sniff for the Lebanese connection in the dope-saturated port city of Genoa. Pumped along by Guido and Maurizio De Angelis’ fast-paced score, Castellari directs with an exciting panache where violence is bloody and sadistic, and is sometimes delivered in Peckinpahesque slo-mo, a typical Castellari trademark. Finally affording this seminal Eurocrime picture the respect it deserves, Blue Underground’s 3-disc set (which includes one UHD, one Blu-ray, and a soundtrack CD) features a stunning 4K restoration of the film’s uncut version, and several topnotch special features including three (!) separate audio commentary tracks (which for the record include one with director Enzo G. Castellari and BU’s William Lustig, one with Franco Nero and Mike Malloy, and lastly with film historians Nathaniel Thompson, Troy Howarth and Eugenio Ercolani), and a wealth of on-camera interviews with Castellari, Nero, actor/stuntman Massimo Vanni, the De Angelis brothers, and plenty more besides! HIGH CRIME is a long-time favourite, and should become one of yours as well!

THE HITCHER [1986] (Second Sight Films) – Over the last few years, U.K. based label Second Sight Films have become one of the more exciting boutique labels around with their impressive slate of all-encompassing box sets. Still absent on North American UHD (or even Blu-ray for that matter), Robert Harmon’s THE HITCHER follows a rather rudimentary premise about a young man (C. Thomas Howell) who is tormented by a psychotic hitchhiker (Rutger Hauer), but Harmon’s complete mastery of the medium (and Eric Red’s tight script) is such that he places the viewer dead-centre amongst the action while gradually exploring the psyche of each character; it’s quite unlike anything else he ever directed, which is one of the reasons it’s such an absolute gem. Featuring a pristine 4K transfer supervised by director Harmon (which helps better appreciate the amazing work of DP John Seale), the limited-edition set includes numerous audio commentaries, several newly-filmed and archival interviews, a 200-page (!) hardback book, and the film’s original screenplay, all of which is set inside a beautifully-designed rigid box. Needless to say, this comes highly recommended!

 

HOLLYWOOD 90028 [1973] (Grindhouse Releasing) – Sometimes known as THE HOLLYWOOD HILLSIDE STRANGLER, this moody character study follows Mark (Christopher Augustine) who plods away making porn loops for a living, even as he aspires to be a real cameraman. In between work, he cruises the local strip joints and peep shows looking for women to strangle. Although primarily marketed as a sleazy horror film, Christina Hornisher’s picture is both cerebral and horrific in its portrayal of alienation and loneliness, and much like Martin Scorsese’s subsequent TAXI DRIVER (1976), the film attains an unsettling harmony between gritty urban realism and surreal lapses into fantastic wish-fulfilment. By far one of the best discoveries of the year, Grindhouse Releasing brings this forgotten mini-masterpiece to home video in typically grand fashion with their 3-disc set, which features yet another stellar restoration, tons of special features (including the alternate TWISTED THROATS reissue version), a soundtrack CD of Basil Poledouris’ score, and a bunch of hidden Easter eggs, which further sweeten an already amazing release.

 

THE HOUSES OF DOOM [1989] (Cauldron Films) - Oft-neglected and lesser-appreciated, these made-for-TV Italo horror pictures included in this superb 4-disc box set (which for the record include Lucio Fulci’s THE HOUSE OF CLOCKS [1989] and THE SWEET HOUSE OF HORRORS [1989], and Umberto Lenzi’s THE HOUSE OF WITCHCRAFT [1989] and THE HOUSE OF LOST SOULS [1989]) finally get the respect they deserve in this highly-welcome Blu-ray collection, which not only includes excellent 2K restorations of each film, but a wealth of special features including audio commentaries, a ton of on-camera interviews courtesy of Eugenio Ercolani, and two soundtrack CDs! Read review. 

 

THE HUNGRY SNAKE WOMAN [1986] (Mondo Macabro) – Whenever a new Indonesian horror film is announced for release, it will most likely be a remarkable delight, but nothing can prepare viewers for this not-to-be-missed bit of insanity from genre specialist Sisworo Gautama Putra and Indonesian “Queen of horror” Suzzanna. Although light on special features (the limited red case edition does contains an excellent 16-page booklet from MM’s Pete Tombs), this is one of the most purely enjoyable releases of the year, and for that alone, it’s reason enough to celebrate. 

 

I WALKED WITH A ZOMBIE / THE SEVENTH VICTIM [1943] (Criterion Collection) – Produced by Val Lewton, it’s great to finally have these moodily mono-chromatic gems on 4K and Blu-ray, which easily rank with the best genre offerings the decade - or any decade for that matter - had to offer. It goes without saying that Criterion’s new 4K editions of Jacques Tourneur’s I WALKED WITH A ZOMBIE (1943) and Mark Robson’s THE SEVENTH VICTIM (1943) is the optimal way to go for those who want to see these atmospheric classics at their absolute best, both of which are nicely complimented by several wonderful special features. 

 

INSIDE THE MIND OF COFFIN JOE [1964 – 2008] (Arrow Video) – Considering José Mojica Marins’ enduring cult status, it’s rather surprising it took so long for a box set of his films to finally materialize on North American disc. Gathering together most of his iconic classics, there’s much to appreciate in this set including new 4K transfers of each film and a huge selection of special features (which also includes a nicely-illustrated collector’s book) in a release that a cinematic luminary such as Marins truly deserves. 

 

THE KEEP [1983] (Vinegar Syndrome) – Thanks to their collaboration with Paramount Pictures, it’s great to see VS finally dig this picture out of the vaults, and while it remains deeply-flawed, Michael Mann’s sophomore theatrical effort is every bit as slick and mesmerizing as his many crime sagas, which looks stunning on this much-desired 4K disc. A perfect case of style-over-substance, most of the actors do their damnedest to keep the convoluted mumbo-jumbo narrative from spiraling out of control, but Alex Thomson’s breathtaking photography and John Box’s remarkable production design are a real feast for the eyes, and along with Tangerine Dream’s haunting synth score help elevate THE KEEP out of the darkness. 

 

LITTLE DARLINGS [1980] (Cinématographe) – Garnering a large cult status over the years, Ron F. Maxwell’s ahead-of-its-time, coming of age picture starring teen superstars Kristy MacNichol and Tatum O’Neal fell by the wayside following it’s VHS and LaserDisc releases due to the usual music licensing issues. Well, thanks to Vinegar Syndrome’s sub-label Cinématographe, they have finally cleared up all those pesky problems with Paramount Pictures and brought the film to both 4K and Blu-ray as their inaugural release. Loaded with special features, which even includes a fascinating audio commentary with the film’s director, let’s hope this wonderful release will allow more people to discover this hidden gem of American cinema. 

 

LOOKING FOR MR. GOODBAR [1977] (Vinegar Syndrome) – Mired in music licensing hell for decades, Richard Brooks’ darkly fascinating picture finally makes its official worldwide disc debut (in glorious 4K, no less!) in what is yet another liberation from the Paramount vaults. Based on Judith Rossner’s 1975 best-selling true-crime novel of the same name, Diane Keaton stars as Theresa Dunn, an amiable inner-city schoolteacher of deaf children who rebels against her conservative upbringing by cruising the local dive bars and late-night discos looking for love any way she can find it, which eventually leads to some increasingly violent altercations. Anchored by Keaton’s memorable performance, she commands the screen right from the get-go with a brilliant, multi-layered portrayal of a women who maintains that she is “alone, not lonely” even as she endures the violent and possessive nature of the many men she meets. Despite the picture’s poor critical notices during its initial theatrical release, this remains one of the essential works of the ’70s, which looks dazzling on this must-own, extras-filled disc.  

 

A MAN ON HIS KNEES [1979] (Radiance Films) – One of director Damiano Damiani’s lesser-seen, but no less compelling Sicilian crime dramas about irredeemable human corruption, the film stars Giuliano Gemma as a reformed-car-thief-turned-small-businessman Nino Peralta, who is inadvertently targeted as part of a major underworld purge, but then decides to plead his case to contract killer killer Antonio Platamone (Michele Placido). Occasionally prone to unpredictable bursts of unglamourized violence, both Gemma and Placido give highly credible performances in this thoughtfully plotted, well-scripted picture, which is well-supported via Radiance Films’ beautiful 4K restoration and a nice selection of special features including interviews with Gemma, actor Tano Cimarosa, and assistant director Mino Giarda. An excellent booklet with writing from Roberto Curti is also included.

 

NINJA TERMINATOR [1986] (Neon Eagle Video) – Of all the countless ninja movies produced during the ’80s and ’90s courtesy of Joseph Lai’s notorious IFD Films, this Godfrey Ho bit of insanity is easily one of the company’s crowning jewels. Featuring a remarkable restoration, this new disc looks and sounds terrific, and benefits tremendously from the boost in picture quality. As was typical for this kind of low-rent fare, much of the film was taken from an existing source, this time from Kim Si-hyun’s THE UNIVITED GUEST OF THE STAR FERRY (1984), which is also included on this two-disc limited edition alongside an ample number of special features that also incorporates a lengthy IFD Ninja Trailer Reel and a 40-page perfect bound book.

 

OPERA [1987] (Severin Films) – Back in 2019, Scorpion Releasing’s 3-disc set of Dario Argento’s “last true masterpiece” landed on Unpopped Cinema’s year-end list, which was touted as “the final word on the film”, but here we are again five years later with Severin Films’ epic five-disc set (!), which easily outclasses Scorpion’s previous release.  Encompassing one UHD, three Blu-rays and a soundtrack CD, Severin’s newly scanned 4K restoration (in HDR-compatible Dolby Vision) doesn’t disappoint with Argento’s extremely strong visuals and stunning sound design looking and sounding the best they ever have. As usual, Severin have packed their set with tons of illuminating audio commentaries, alternate presentations, documentaries (including The Eyes of Opera with the film’s elusive star Cristina Marsillach), interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and so much more! It really is an embarrassment of riches and more than enough incentive to double or even triple dip, so grab it before it disappears!

 

RED TO KILL [1994] (Error_4444) – One of the most outrageous Category III films ever conceived, this unrelenting rape/revenge film definitely pushes the limits with its supremely nasty subject matter, but it’s filmed with such stylistic flare, it’s virtually impossible to ignore, and remains one of director Billy Tang’s most unforgettable – and certainly most challenging – films. Featuring a new “2K uncut restoration”, the film looks fantastic, which is ably complimented by a host of informative special features including a terrific, well-researched audio commentary from Cinema Arcana’s Bruce Holecheck and Ultra Violent’s Art Ettinger. And for those that can’t get enough, Error_4444 also released Billy Tang’s RUN AND KILL (1993), Billy Tang’s other Category III film, which also comes highly-recommended.

 

RUSS MEYER’S VIXEN TRILOGY [1968 – 1979] (Severin Films) – Given Severin Films’ already stacked release schedule this past year, they performed a real miracle when they also secured the home video rights to Russ Meyer’s highly-sought after catalogue. Featuring stellar restorations (VIXEN was sourced in conjunction with the Musuem of Modern Art [MoMA] who held the film elements), these 4K and Blu-ray releases (which also include SUPERVIXENS [1975] and BENEATH THE VALLEY OF THE ULTRAVIXENS [1979]) are shockingly good in terms and clarity and detail, which make the director’s audacious filmmaking style really come to life, but Severin have also gone the extra mile and produced many new special features and ported over tons of existing extras as well, which go a long way to help better appreciate the broader career and genius that is Russ Meyer. This trio of releases is an occasion that needs to be applauded. 

 

SEX APOCALYPSE [1982] (Mondo Macabro) – Difficult to see in anything resembling a watchable copy for decades, this may be the quintessential example of a “S Clasificada” picture (low-budget programmers, which incorporated large doses of sex and/or violence into their storylines), which director Carlos Aured serves up with scuzzy, unapologetic gusto. Highlighted by a detailed audio commentary with Nathaniel Thompson and Troy Howarth, and an exceptional on-camera interview with director / screenwriter / actor Richard Vogue who provides a very thorough history of these sex-filled extravaganzas, MM have also included the film’s alternate 106m hardcore version [!], which was made available on their initial limited ‘red case’ edition. Oozing sheer, undiluted sleaze, Carlos Aured’s SEX APOCALYPSE is certainly not for all tastes, but Mondo Macabro’s pristine Blu-ray ranks alongside some of the label’s most unforgettable and eye-opening releases to date! Read review.

 

TRICK OR TREAT [1986] (Red Shirt Pictures & Synapse Films) – Sold out in a matter of days, this outstanding 3-disc limited edition set of director Charles Martin Smith’s ’80s heavy metal horror classic not only pulls a beautiful 4K transfer from the film’s original camera negative (approved by DP Robert Elswit, no less!), but more special features than one expects with many of the principal cast and crew, which is topped off by Rock & Shock: The Making of Trick or Treat, a terrific feature-length documentary. This elaborate set also comes with the film’s CD soundtrack album, which only sweetens an already must-have package. 

 

HIGHLY HONOURABLE MENTIONS, which are also very worthy of your time and your hard-earned cash!

 

2020 TEXAS GLADIATORS (Severin Films UHD/BD/CD combo), THE BLAIR WITCH PROJECT (Second Sight Films BD), BURIAL GROUND (Severin Films UHD/BD), CALIGULA (Umbrella Entertainment UHD/BD), CONAN THE BARBARIAN (Arrow Video UHD), THE CULT OF AGFA TRAILER SHOW (AGFA BD), GODDBYE UNCLE TOM (Blue Underground UHD/BD/CD combo), DAIEI GOTHIC JAPANESE GHOST STORIES (Radiance Films BD), DANZA MACABRA VOLUME THREE – THE SPANISH GOTHIC COLLECTION (Severin Films BD), EYEBALL (88 Films UHD/BD), HEAVENLY BODIES (Fun City Editions BD), HUSH (Scream Factory UHD/BD), I WANT TO GET EVEN (Neon Eagle Video BD), INTREPIDOS PUNKS / VENGEANCE OF THE PUNKS (Vinegar Syndrome BD), INVASION OF THE BODY SNATCHERS (Kino Lorber UHD/BD), PAPER MOON (Criterion Collection UHD/BD), PAT GARRETT & BILLY THE KID (Criterion Collection UHD/BD), PHASE IV(Vinegar Syndrome UHD/BD), PLANET OF THE VAMPIRES (Radiance BD), THE ROARING TWENTIES (Criterion Collection UHD/BD), SATANIK (Terror Vision BD), SLAP THE MONSTER ON PAGE ONE (Radiance Films BD), THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS (Melusine UHD/BD), EL VAMPIRO – TWO BLOODSUCKING TALES FROM MEXICO (Indicator BD), WHO KILLED TEDDY BEAR? (Cinematographe UHD/BD).

UNPOPPED CINEMA’S TOP 25 BEST DISCS OF 2023

This was another fantastic year for physical media releases, but it was an exceptionally strong year for box sets. Thanks to the tireless efforts of Arrow Video, Imprint Films, Indicator, Mondo Macabro, Radiance Films, Severin Films and Vinegar Syndrome, several staggering collections flooded the market with the kind of unprecedented care that is truly astonishing as seen by Severin’s THE SENSUAL WORLD OF BLACK EMANUELLE, a massive 24-film, 15-disc collection that remains one of the finest curations ever conceived for the home video market. Once again, it’s the boutique labels who are working overtime to release as many heretofore ignored, unseen and/or highly-requested films onto disc, which include skilled transfers, judicious extras, and eye-popping packaging. So, without further delay, let’s take a look at some of my favourite discs of 2023!

 

THE ABOMINATION [1986] (Visual Vengeance) – Unfolding in a bizarre, surreal world unto itself with some odd biblical allusions (“The plague will be upon you very soon!”) and tons of mind-melting gore, this exemplary DIY effort from Texan indie filmmaker Bret McCormick has been languishing in the VHS graveyard for far too long. Over the years, THE ABOMINATION has become a triumph of the low-budget aesthetic among die-hard tape collectors, so Visual Vengeance has spared no expense to deliver this one-of-a-kind monster film to disc, which includes a pair of commentaries (including one with director McCormick and fellow Texan filmmaker Glen Coburn), a making-of documentary, several interviews with the cast and crew, deleted scenes, and plenty more besides! This is an outstanding disc and ranks as one of the best releases in VV’s ever-expanding catalogue!

 

AFTER HOURS [1985] (Criterion Collection) – Martin Scorsese’s much-treasured and deeply dark comedy finally gets its very deserved UHD/BD release, which looks spectacular here, and is well-supported by several new and archival extra features, which only strengthen this vibrant bit of filmmaking. 

 

BLOOD AND BLACK LACE [1964] (Arrow Video) – Flawlessly restored in 4K, Mario Bava’s incredible giallo has never looked better than it does here on this exceptionally well-packaged UHD, which also comes stacked with a wide array of extra features. Absolutely essential! 

 

BOLLYWOOD HORROR COLLECTION [1984 – 2006] (Mondo Macabro) – MM’s long out-of-print Bollywood Horror Collection DVDs, which spanned three volumes and featured the work of pioneering horror specialists Shyam and Tulsi Ramsay, have been expertly updated for this impressive box set with “new 2K restorations from the original negatives.” Benefitting greatly from the uptick in quality, this set also includes cast and crew interviews, trailers, and a superb 80-page book with writing on the films from Bollywood expert Tim Paxton. It’s worth noting that MAHAKAAL (1993), the Ramsay’s take on Wes Craven’s A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET (1984), which was included in MM’s original third volume DVD, now resides with Massacre Video, and is therefore not included in this collection. However, MM have instead added the Ramsay’s “last horror film to date” THE GHOST (2006), which only sweetens this already superb collection that everyone into worldweird cinema should own!

 

COSA NOSTRA: FRANCO NERO IN THREE MAFIA TALES BY DAMIANO DAMIANI [1968 – 1975] (Radiance Films) – Brimming with cheek-kissing and close-ups of suspicious faces, this trio of way-above-average collaborations between Franco Nero and director Damiano Damiani have been in dire need of proper English-friendly HD presentations for years, whose reputations are likely to be enhanced with Radiance’s new Blu-ray collection. Although each film demonstrates an astute use of the commercial genre, rather than non-stop visceral action, these socio-politically aware dramas, which for the record, include THE DAY OF THE OWL (a.k.a. MAFIA, 1968), THE CASE IS CLOSED, FORGET IT (1971) and HOW TO KILL A JUDGE (1975), are all reliant on tight pacing, careful dialogue and strong performances from Franco Nero, Claudia Cardinale, Riccardo Cucciolla, Lee J. Cobb, and many others. Supplemented by a wide variety of informative extras including audio commentaries, revealing video essays, several new and archival interviews, and a 120-page perfect-bound book, Radiance have finally afforded these previously under-seen films the respect they deserve. 

 

THE CRIMINAL ACTS OF TOD SLAUGHTER: EIGHT BLOOD-AND-THUNDER ENTERTAINMENTS, 1935-1940 (Indicator) – Having first encountered the films of Tod Slaughter via Johnny Legend’s third volume in his popular Saturday Night Shockers VHS collections, (pairing MURDER IN THE RED BARN [1935] and THE FACE AT THE WINDOW [1939]), this murky-looking videocassette left a lot to be desired, but Slaughter’s scenery-chewing presence still managed to burst forth from the screen with an incredible energy that was completely unforgettable. Born Norman Carter Slaughter, this former theater actor carved a niche for himself as the preeminent star of early British horror cinema, whose films and career are well-represented in this magnificent collection, which brings together eight of his most popular films. It goes without saying that Indicator’s new “4K scans of the original nitrate negatives” are an incredible feat of restoration which look absolutely stellar, and are given the deluxe treatment herein with a shocking number of extra features (including a 120-page book!), which makes this an essential purchase for either the enthusiastic fan or anyone else curious about this memorable, one-of-a-kind thespian.

 

THE CURSE OF THE SCREAMING DEAD [1982] (Vinegar Syndrome) – Previously released on DVD in a compromised re-edited edition by Troma as CURSE OF THE CANNIBAL CONFEDERATES, this regional zombie shocker from director Tony Malanowski is definitely not for everyone with its somnambulistic pacing, amateur acting, and uneven photography, but it also has a low-budget charm that is undeniable. Newly “scanned & restored in 2K from the original 16mm camera reversal”, this film will always have a rough-hewn appearance, but VS have done wonders with this new restoration, which is further bolstered by several extra features. Spread over 2-discs, disc one includes the feature film (in its original version) along with NIGHT OF HORROR (1981), Malanowski’s earlier and far more anemic original version, both of which include revealing commentaries from the director and star Steve Sandkuhler. In addition, disc two includes extensive making-of documentaries, and several on-camera interviews, including one with Stephen Thrower, whose monumental book Nightmare USA (Fabpress, 2007) devoted an entire chapter to the film and director. Regardless of the film’s generally poor reputation, this is a meticulously assembled package that comes highly recommended!

 

DANZA MACABRA – THE ITALIAN GOTHIC COLLECTION VOLUME 1 & 2 [1964 – 1972] (Severin Films) – Following up on Arrow Video’s magnificent GOTHIC FANTASTICO: FOUR ITALIAN TALES OF TERROR from last year, Severin have since released two exquisite box sets of beautifully restored and likeminded Italian gothics (and a couple of wholly unique examples!), which should continue to enhance this genre’s burgeoning reputation within North America. Some of the highlights include a gorgeous UHD of Antonio Margheriti’s gothic staple CASTLE OF BLOOD (1964) starring Barbara Steele, and stunning HD debuts of Renato Polselli’s incredible THE MONSTER OF THE OPERA (1964), José Luis Merino’s SCREAM OF THE DEMON LOVER (1970), Mel Welles’ LADY FRANKENSTEIN (1971), ‘Finney Cliff’/Garibaldi Serra Caracciolo’s THE SEVENTH GRAVE (1965) and Paolo Lombardo’s THE DEVIL’S LOVER (1972), the latter two making their official worldwide disc debuts. But the real icing on the cake is the inclusion of Giorgio Albertazzi’s never-before-seen 4-part mini-series JEKYLL (1969) and Corrado Farina’s “startling reinvention of the Dracula mythos” THEY HAVE CHANGED THEIR FACE (1971), which has long been difficult to see outside of murky grey market bootlegs. Supplements include informative audio commentaries with film historians and authors Kat Ellinger, Rachael Nisbet, Rod Barnett, Robert Monell, and Annie Rose Malamet as well as scores of on-camera interviews, video essays and trailers. As an added bonus, Severin have also included a bonus soundtrack CD of the never-before-released score for Elvio Monti’s THE DEVIL’S LOVER! Bursting with beautiful imagery and tons of appropriately malevolent atmosphere, Severin continues to do valiant work rescuing these wonderful films from the throes of obscurity. 

 

DIRECTED BY SIDNEY J. FURIE [1970 – 1978] (Imprint Films) – While it could be argued that Furie’s THE IPCRESS FILE (1965), his shadowy – and visually very savvy – counter-espionage thriller starring Michael Caine (itself released by Imprint Films in 2021 as part of THE HARRY PALMER COLLECTION), or his Billie Holiday biopic LADY SINGS THE BLUES (1972) are probably his most recognized films, but Canadian born Sidney J. Furie, a director whose career has spanned decades working in the U.K., U.S. and Canada, has been otherwise almost entirely neglected. Well, along with Daniel Kremer, the author of Sidney J. Furie Life and Films (University Press of Kentucky, 2015), and the ever-busy folks at Imprint Films, they have corrected this oversight with this fascinating and very thorough collection. Gathering together most of Furie’s ’70s output, which includes THE LAWYER (1970), LITTLE FAUSS & BIG HALSY (1971), HIT! (1973), SHEILA LEVINE IS DEAD AND LIVING IN NEW YORK (1975) and THE BOYS IN COMPANY C (1978), each of these films feature uniformly strong performances, and a stylistically diverse approach to the material, which further reinforces Furie’s versatility as a director. Boasting new 2K and 4K scans, each film looks terrific (SHEILA LEVINE looks especially nice in this worldwide disc debut) and come fully-stacked with tons of special features including multiple audio commentaries (all of which are moderated by Kremer), and far too many extras to mention individually, but rest assured, you will come away with a far greater appreciation of the man’s work. Any self-respecting filmgoer should snap this up without hesitation!

 

EAST END HUSTLE [1976] (Canadian International Pictures) – After a young hooker named Cindy (Andrée Pelletier) quits her day job and leaves her pimp (Miguel Fernandes), she even convinces Marianne (Anne-Marie Provencher), the young upstart, to do the same. This causes a small rebellion among the working girls, which forces Miguel to call in some of his mob friends who resort to equal opportunity brutality without hesitation. Despite the rudimentary premise, much of the narrative takes great pains to humanize its cast of working girls very effectively, with much of the principal players rising above the lowly – but entertaining – material. Add to all this an authentically sleazy Montreal backdrop and plenty of nudity, and you’ve got a rather exceptional blend of sub-genres that is part softcore sex pic, a kitchen-sink social drama and sleazy actioner. Criminally underseen, CIP Releasing’s flawless UHD/BD combo brings out all the gritty realism of ’70s era Montreal, which is further enhanced with several extra features with director Frank Vitale, Troma’s Lloyd Kaufman (the film’s U.S. distributor), composer Len Blum, a very informative audio commentary with Canuxploitation.com’s Paul Corupe and film historian Jason Pichonsky, and a liner notes booklet with writing on the film from Alexandra Heller-Nicholas. 

 

FRANKENSTEIN ’80 [1972] (Cauldron Films) – Although clumsily-executed across the boards and strung-together with only the flimsiest of plotlines – albeit still highly entertaining nevertheless – Mario Mancini’s sole directorial debut remained conspicuously absent in anything even close to resembling a passably watchable version in North America. But thanks to Cauldron Films, this shamelessly trashy Italo-horror gets a real first-class presentation, which will serve as a real revelation to anyone familiar only with Gorgon’s VHS tape (“He had a bone to pick…”) or Cheezy Flicks’ VHS-sourced DVD. Film historian Heather Drain provides a very entertaining fact-filled audio commentary, which compliments this schlocky film perfectly, while the prolific – and always welcome - Eugenio Ercolani provides a couple of terrific interviews with star Dalila Di Lazzaro and film historian Domenico Monetti. Outside of this fantastic release, Cauldron continued to impress, which also saw them release beautifully-packaged editions of Lucio Fulci’s CITY OF THE LIVING DEAD (a.k.a. THE GATES OF HELL, 1980 – their first UHD!) Ruggero Deodato’s OFF BALANCE (a.k.a. PHANTOM OF DEATH, 1987), ‘Ted Archer’/Nello Rossati’s TOPLINE (1988), ‘Larry Ludman’/Fabrizio De Angelis’ THE LAST MATCH (1990), and ‘Anthony Ascot’/Giuliano Carnimeo’s RAT MAN (1987), so if you don’t have ’em, do yourself a favour and pick those up as well! Read review.

 

FROM HOLLYWOOD TO HEAVEN: THE LOST AND SAVED FILMS OF THE ORMOND FAMILY [1959 – 1974] (Indicator) – Released in conjunction with Jimmy McDonough’s extraordinary 360-page book The Exotic Ones: That Fabulous Film-Making Family from Music City, USA – The Ormonds (Fabpress, 2023), this equally remarkable Blu-ray collection represents the cinematic evidence of this wholly unique family, which includes Ron Ormond, his wife June and their son Tim. Bringing together 13 of their feature films including early barebones exploitation efforts such as UNTAMED MISTRESS (1951), WHITE LIGHTNIN’ ROAD (1967) and THE EXOTIC ONES(1968), their near death experience following a plane crash resulted in a very abrupt career change for the Ormonds.  This life affirming event eventually brought about a series of unabashedly harsh bible-thumping religious films, some of which starred Estus W. Pirkle, a sermonizin’ hellfire ’n’ brimstone, commie-bashing evangelist who rails about the dangers and sin and evil. Painstakingly compiled, Jimmy McDonough’s obsessive – and much-welcomed - tenacity is all over this box set, which includes the usual in-depth extra features, making this rarefied collection an absolute must-have for the simple fascination of discovering trash film luminaries such as this. If not, God bless you, Mr. Pirkle would be proud of you for not heeding your baser impulses… I, for one, couldn’t resist. 

 

HOUSEBOAT HORROR [1989] (Umbrella Entertainment) – Long-time established Australian label Umbrella have released several mouth-watering special editions this past year, but none have been as revelatory as this collector’s edition Blu-ray of Ollie Martin’s HOUSEBOAT HORROR, which has the unique distinction of being Australia’s first SOV (shot-on-video) horror film. While this is nothing more than your standard FRIDAY THE 13^th (1980) clone, which includes a clunky script, some sloppy kills, and plenty of ’80s retro appeal, the Aussie setting alone (which includes locations at Lake Eildon in Victoria and some Melbourne suburbs) warrants a look-see by devotees of both Ozploitation and slasher genres. While not for all tastes, Umbrella’s impressive collector’s edition definitely outshines the film itself, which features a new “upscaled and color corrected” 1080p master alongside a seemingly endless array of extra features beginning with an enticing audio commentary with Tony Martin (moderated by Jarret Gahan), a 30^th Anniversary Monster Fest Q & A with much of the cast and crew, a ton of interviews, Ollie Martin’s stuntman doc THE MAD DAREDEVILS DOWN UNDER (1990), and plenty more besides! Housed in a rigid slipcase, the collector’s edition also includes art-cards, a reversible poster, and a fantastic 48-page perfect-bound book with writing from Emma Westwood, John Harrison, and Andrew Leavold, which provides loads of additional context on this Ozploitation oddity.  

 

THE LAST HORROR FILM [1982] (Severin Films) – Following several attempts from both Troma and 88 Films to release a definitive DVD and/or Blu-ray of this fascinating, one-off slasher film, which reunited Joe Spinell and Caroline Munro, the two stars of William Lustig’s MANIAC (1980), has finally been put to rest with this definitive UHD/BD combo. The new 4K scan taken from the “original negative with additional scenes sourced from a 35mm print discovered at the Cinémathèque Française” is a real eye-opener and brings to light a number of previously obscured details. As for extras, Severin have included several featurettes (including a fascinating locations visit with Michael Gingold and Severin’s David Gregory), and two new audio commentaries beginning with Spinell’s best friend Luke Walters (who was present during much of the shoot in Cannes), who divulges plenty of info about the troubled production, while Munro and FrightFest programmer Alan Jones discuss her time working with Spinell and the challenges brought about on said film in this highly-entertaining listen. The limited-edition website exclusive also included a 100-page (!) book with a look at “how not to make a horror movie” with co-producer/co-writer/co-star Judd Hamilton and an interview with director David Winters, which was housed in a collectible “Maniac II: Love to Kill” slipcase. 

 

MARTIN [1977] (Second Sight Films) – One of the more eagerly anticipated releases of the last few years, George A. Romero’s brilliant multi-layered suburban horror film finally got its long-belated disc debut with this stunning UHD/BD combo.  As usual, Second Sight have pulled out all the stops, which includes a bundle of extra features, and Donald Rubenstein’s haunting score on a bonus CD. It’s really quite incredible just how good this new 4K restoration looks, which of course, comes highly recommended!

 

NIGHTMARE [1981] (Severin Films) – Garnering a vast cult following over the years, Romano Scavolini’s scuzzy slice’n’ dicer offers up many of the genre’s traditional trappings (the film borrows part of its outline from John Carpenter’s HALLOWEEN [1978]), but it’s also one of the most memorable, gore-drenched efforts to emerge out of the early ’80s slasher craze. NIGHTMARE (or NIGHTMARES IN A DAMAGED BRAIN as per its U.K. Video Nasty title) has always had a complicated video history, so it’s great to finally have this film looking so good on this definitive 3-disc UHD/BD combo, which is crammed with audio commentaries, new and archival interviews (including one with Tom Savini, who finally sets the record straight about his involvement with the film), an extensive still gallery, trailers, and Damaged: The Very British Obscenity of David Hamilton-Grant (2023), a superb feature length documentary, which focuses on the British video distributor who was jailed for releasing the uncut version of said film during the U.K. Video Nasties fervor of the early ’80s. This is a stunning, must-have release of this grim and unsettling film. 

 

THE PACK [1977] (Scream Factory) – Thoughtfully plotted and well-scripted, Robert Clouse’s tense and compelling animal attack film leaps to Blu-ray at long last, which looks very good in this new “2K restoration from the best surviving element.” Unlike Warner’s old made-on-demand DVD, Scream Factory’s Blu includes a great assortment of extras beginning with a wonderful, well-researched audio commentary from Lee Gambin, an authority on the subject and author of Massacred by Mother Nature: Exploring the Natural Horror Film (Midnight Marquee, 2012), who adds a plethora of information about the film. Other extras include an interview with star Hope Alexander-Willis, and audio interviews with actor Sherry DeBoer, production manager Thomas LoFaro and composer Lee Holdridge, who provide tons of background info and insight on this solidly entertaining film. 

 

THE SENSUAL WORLD OF BLACK EMANUELLE [1974-2021] (Severin Films) – A stunning labour of love, this comprehensive collection of the Black Emanuelle films (mostly starring the strikingly photogenic Laura Gemser) showcases a total of 24 films highlighting different key areas of Gemser’s lengthy career, which also focuses on her numerous collaborators that also include director ‘Joe D’Amato’/Aristide Massaccesi, her husband and fellow actor Gabriele Tinti, and many more friends and colleagues. With over 40 hours (!) of extra features, this gorgeously-designed collection also includes The Black Emanuelle Bible, an extraordinary 356-page book, which not only includes thorough examinations of every Black Emnanuelle film and/or variation thereof, but several insightful essays as well. It goes without saying that Severin Films have truly outdone themselves with this incredible box set, a jaw-droppingly exhaustive, first-class presentation that defies every possible expectation! This is, without question, the finest release of the year! Read the review: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, and Part 5. 

 

THE SINISTER DR. ORLOFF [1984] (Mondo Macabro) – One of several Dr. Orloff films director Jess Franco made throughout his career, this version of the oft-told story was perhaps the most difficult to locate outside of dreary bootlegs. In what is essentially a remake of THE AWFUL DR. ORLOF (1961 – notice the different spelling), this updated re-telling replaces the dark and gloomy gothic atmosphere of the original with the sunny Alicante coastline of Spain, and instead of gruesome skin grafts, Dr. Alfred Orloff (this time played with appropriate gusto by frequent Franco collaborator Antonio Mayans), attempts to transfer the soul of his dead mother (Rocio Freixas) into the bodies of recently kidnapped young women to help satisfy his… um, incestuous urges. Like most of Franco’s films from this time period, he does what he can with the very limited budget, coaxing excellent performances from his trusted troupe of actors (including a nice extended cameo from Howard Vernon, the original Dr. Orlof) who have no problem handling the taboo material and the usual overdoses of nudity and sex. MM’s disc is a real sight for sore eyes, which looks immaculate in this new 4K transfer from the original camera negative, and is ably complimented by some terrific extra features including an audio commentary from Troy Howarth and Mondo Digital's Nathaniel Thompson, and separate interviews with Mayans and Franco authority Stephen Thrower, all of whom provide plenty of knowledge about said film and the continually expanding universe of Franco’s fascinating career.

 

SRIGALA [1981] (Terror Vision) – Directed by Sisworo Gautama Putra, this Indonesian knock-off of Sean S. Cunningham’s FRIDAY THE 13^TH (1980), which also includes several other interesting plot points and oddball characteristics, arrives on Blu-ray in a stunning 2K transfer taken from the original camera negative. Retaining the film’s original 2.39:1 aspect ratio, Terror Vision’s fantastic new restoration is backed by a number of on-camera interviews with many of the film’s participants, and a beautifully designed, eye-popping slipcover. Highly recommended!

 

TOD BROWNING’S SIDESHOW SHOCKERS [1925 – 1932] (Criterion Collection) – Although best known for directing Bela Lugosi in DRACULA (1931), director Tod Browning’s undisputed masterpiece is the extraordinary FREAKS (1932), which has finally arrived on Blu-ray in this handsome set, which also includes THE UNKNOWN(1927) and THE MYSTIC (1925), two of Browning’s silent-era films that also feature a predominant sideshow milieu. Criterion’s new 2K overhaul looks terrific with nicely nuanced depth and detail missing from the previous Warner DVD, but equally important, are the inclusion of numerous extra features (both new and archival), which do a great job of introducing and reinforcing the importance of Browning’s body of work. 

 

T.R. BASKIN [1971] (Fun City Editions) – Long unavailable on home video and virtually forgotten, Candice Bergen stars as the title character who ventures to Chicago “to seek fame and fortune”, but is met with disappointments in her work, her new ‘friends’ and the men she meets (here represented by Peter Boyle and James Caan). Bergen is absolutely remarkable in the tricky role whose snarky façade is perhaps her response to the daily grind of modern big city life in general or perhaps just the loneliness of it all. Written by future director Peter Hyams and directed by Herbert Ross, it’s great to finally have this back in circulation, which not only looks terrific in this new transfer, but is accompanied with several terrific extras (including an interview with Hyams) to help give this misunderstood film a new lease on life. 

 

VINEGAR SYNDROME’S LOST PICTURE SHOW [1966 – 1987] (Vinegar Syndrome) – In honour of their ten-year anniversary, VS have unleashed this years-in-the-making, ten-film collection of thought-to-be-lost American genre films, which will probably confound and/or frustrate some of the more casual VS fans, but for the more adventurous, cinematically broad-minded viewers, this is a treasure-trove of weird delights. Outside of the films themselves, which includes everything from early slashers such as Oliver Drake’s THE LAS VEGAS STRANGLER (1968) to Donn Greer’s indescribable kiddie film THE RARE BLUE APES OF CANNIBAL ISLE (1975), VS have packed their set with a dense array of special features (including Elijah Drenner’s wonderful film restoration doc AGAINST THE GRAIN [2023]) and a couple of perfect-bound books detailing all of the films, which should keep most B-film enthusiasts occupied for the better part of a month! 

 

THE WHIP AND THE BODY [1963] (88 Films) – Previously released in several compromised editions, this Region B Blu from the U.K. finally gets things right with a superb transfer sourced from “archive materials”, which corrects various day-for-night shots and eliminates the blue tint found in Kino Lorber’s Region A disc. Affording this remarkable Mario Bava film the respect it deserves, 88 Films have also stacked their disc with two excellent audio commentaries (one with author Troy Howarth and Nathaniel Thompson, and the other with author Kim Newman and Sean Hogan), as well as interviews with scribe Ernesto Gastaldi, Mario’s son Lamberto Bava, and several trailers for the film. The entire package is housed in a colourful rigid slipcase, which also includes a 40-page book with writing from Marta Oliehoek-Samitowska, Francesco Massaccesi and Rachael Nisbet. Even if you own the Kino Blu or German EMS DVD (both of which include Tim Lucas’ superb audio commentary), 88 Films’ new Blu is definitely worth the double or triple dip!

 

ZERO WOMAN: RED HANDCUFFS [1974] (Neon Eagle Video) – One of the most outrageous ‘pinky violence’ films (a successful sub-genre, which was born out of the Japanese sex or ‘pink film’ that mixed sex and violence) to come out of Japan, Yukio Noda’s highly-stylized, incredibly violent film stars Miki Sugimoto in a career-defining, no-holds barred performance, which totals all-out, balls-out, action/exploitation. Featuring a vibrant 4K restoration, the disc also includes an audio commentary from film historian Samm Deighan and an interview with Tokyoscope: The Japanese Cult Film Companion (Viz Communications, 2001) author Patrick Macias, while the limited edition also includes a nice illustrated booklet with writing on the film from Chris D., and a limited slipcover with artwork from Justin Coffee. And if you haven’t already done so, go ahead and pick-up Neon Eagle Video’s extras-laden, debut release of Yu-Lung Hsu’s KILL BUTTERFLY KILL, which is another must-have Blu from this new and exciting boutique label. 

 

 

HIGHLY HONOURABLE MENTIONS, which are also very worthy of your time!

 

3 DAYS OF THE CONDOR (Kino Lorber Studio Classics UHD), 5 WOMEN FOR THE KILLER (Vinegar Syndrome),  ATTACK OF THE BEAST CREATURES (AGFA), BLACK MAGIC RITES (Indicator UHD), A BLADE IN THE DARK (Vinegar Syndrome UHD), BLOOD MONEY & SAVAGE GUNS: 4 CLASSIC WESTERNS VOLUMES 2 & 3 (Arrow Video), BLOODSUCKING FREAKS (Vinegar Syndrome UHD), CITY OF THE LIVING DEAD (UHD – Cauldron Films), COPPERHEAD (Terror Vision), COUNT DRACULA (Severin Films UHD), CROCODILE (Synapse Films), CUJO (Kino Lorber Studio Classics UHD), CURSE OF THE DOG GOD (Mondo Macabro), DELIRIUM (Vinegar Syndrome), DR. BUTCHER M.D. (Severin Films UHD), ENTER THE VIDEO STORE: EMPIRE OF SCREAMS (Arrow Video), EXTRA TERRESTRIAL VISITORS (Severin Films), ESCAPE FROM HELLHOLE (Terror Vision), FATAL GAMES (Vinegar Syndrome), FLESH AND FANTASY (Vinegar Syndrome Labs), THE FLESH TRILOGY (Vinegar Syndrome/Distribpix), GORGO (Vinegar Syndrome UHD), THE HARD PART BEGINS (Canadian International Pictures), THE HAUNTING OF JULIA (Imprint Films 2-disc set or Scream Factory UHD), THE HORRIBLE DR. HICHCOCK (Radiance Films / Region B), THE HOUSE THAT SCREAMED (Arrow Video), IMPULSE (Grindhouse Releasing), INFERNAL RAPIST (Vinegar Syndrome), THE IRON PREFECT (Radiance Films), KILL BUTTERFLY KILL (Neon Eagle Video), THE LAST MATCH (Cauldron Films), MAGIC, MYTH & MUTILATION: THE MICRO-BUDGET CINEMA OF MICHAEL J. MURPHY, 1967 – 2015 (Indicator), MAGNUM COP (Raro Video), MARQUIS DE SADE'S PHILOSOPHY IN THE BOUDOIR / EUGENIE (Blue Underground UHD), MEAN STREETS (Criterion Collection UHD), MESSIAH OF EVIL (Radiance Films), MOTHER’S DAY (Vinegar Syndrome UHD), OFF BALANCE (Cauldron Films), THE PSYCHIC (Severin Films UHD), RAT MAN (Cauldron Films), ROBOT MONSTER (Bayview Entertainment), THE TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE (Second Sight UHD), TOPLINE (Cauldron Films), UNMAN, WITTERING AND ZIGO (Arrow Video), and VIOLENT STREETS: THE UMBERTO LENZI / TOMAS MILIAN COLLECTION (Severin Films).