NOTE: The below Blu-ray captures were taken directly from the Blu-ray disc.

ADDITION: Network Blu-ray (November 2021): Network have transferred Walter Summers' 1939 The Dark Eyes of London to Blu-ray. It is cited as being from a "a brand-new High Definition remaster from original film elements in its original theatrical aspect ratio". The 1080P image has some inconsistencies; damage most notable in the beginning, wavering density of the source and some flickering contrast. There are speckles and some remarkably strong visuals exporting depth. Generally the HD presentation is acceptable for a film of this age and the aged condition of the source. I really enjoyed my viewing.

NOTE: We have added 62 more large resolution Blu-ray captures (in lossless PNG format) for DVDBeaver Patrons HERE

On their Blu-ray, Network use a linear PCM dual-mono track (16-bit) in the original English language. The Dark Eyes of London has a few aggressive, gunshots and a fire, that come through with modest depth. The score is credited to Guy Jones (Chamber of Horrors), sounding relatively clean with occasional scattered dialogue in the uncompressed transfer. This probably is not far off ho it sounded theatrically. Network offer optional English subtitles on their Region 'B' Blu-ray.

The Network Blu-ray offers a new commentary by Kim Newman and Stephen Jones. They are enthusiastic, enjoying the film while commenting on the stars (Norwegian actress Greta Gynt and others), director and production team and plenty of film comparable as well as the career of Lugosi who they saw as at his fittest and healthiest as well as commenting on his strong performance. In a separate supplement they also Kim Newman and Stephen Jones discuss Bela Lugosi's work in the UK while at the Edgar Wallace pub in London. It runs about 1/2 an hour. Extras include the US titles and trailer, an image gallery and the package has a limited edition booklet written by Adrian Smith with limited edition poster postcards.

Bela Lugosi's The Dark Eyes of London has a lot going for it as an earlier police procedural, a mysterious story including a 'Blind Institute' and a series of increasing murders under a dark London atmosphere. Despite an abrupt ending, common for the era, it's a cracker of a chiller/thriller. Fans of this genre and vintage efforts will appreciate the Network Blu-ray that adds value with the commentary, a 1/2 hour discussion, booklet and accoutrements relating to this early creeper of a film. Certainly recommended!

Gary Tooze