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

VCI have transferred the 1973 adventure Beyond Atlantis to Blu-ray. It's on a single-layered disc in 1080P with a middling bitrate. The image has a decided green bias throughout (sometimes the result of a weakening Telecine.) It is also soft and flat with only the occasional close-up showing some anticipated HD-level detail. It is in the 1.85:1 aspect ratio showing a few vertical scratches and marks but is, for the most part, clean and watchable for thoise with very modest expectations. 

The audio is transferred via linear PCM 2.0 channel (16-bit) and, like the video, has some weaknesses. There appears top be a bit of a sync issue although this may be accurate to the original production and there isn't much depth in the few aggressive effects. The unremarkable film features an awkward score by Ed. Norton - who has only done two other feature film compositions. The audio quality is only passable but dialogue is mostly clear and audible. There are optional English (SDH) subtitles on this Region FREE Blu-ray.

VCI include the 2018 commentary by writer and filmmaker, Howard S. Berger and Pinoy film historian Andrew Leavold and they discuss a lot of the Filipino Film industry up to the 70's and production details of Beyond Atlantis, the stars, director Eddie Romero and much more. It's a decent listen. 'John Ashley Remembered' runs almost 1/4 of an hour and offers short interviews, conducted by director Mark Hartley for his 2010 documentary 'Machete Maidens Unleashed'. We get sound-bytes from Eddie Romero, Sam Sherman, Patrick Wayne, Peter Tombs, Eddie Garcia, Gloria Hendry, Sid Haig, Jan Merlin and others… There is also an original theatrical trailer, 30 & 60 second TV Spots and Photo & Press Book Gallery. There is a second disc DVD included and liner notes with an essay by Berger.

Beyond Atlantis is a total dud of a film but has the 70s nostalgia cache and works to some extent even as a flawed effort with, generally, hammy performances and no effects. It approaches the realm of the 'it's so bad it's good' genre. The Blu-ray transfer is, almost appropriately, weak but it has an educational commentary. A 'B' popcorn'er that some can appreciate for what it is.

Gary Tooze