DVDBeaver Newsletter
for the Week of July 5th, 2021
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/DVDBeaver_newsletter_July_5th_2021.htm
THIS WEEK RELEASES
include Tarkovsky's greatest enigma cinema goes Criterion, Kubrick 4K UHD, Hawks
screwball comedy gold get the Criterion treatment, Spanish horror, black comedy
romance, Giallo with fashionista Sylva Koscina, 2 Emanuelle adventures, 50's
Mexican cinema, 80s slashers, a sarcastic humanoid duck goes 4K, Georges Lautner
directs sexy damaged female characters, Hitch classic get 4K in UK, Arrow
stacked BD of another Indie gem, Alain Delon everywhere...
THIS WEEK's CALENDAR UPDATES:
The Films of Olivier Assayas and Cold War Creatures: Four Films from Sam Katzman
both get an Arrow Boxset, De Palma's Criterion Blow Out comes to the UK,
enticingly titled The Snake Girl and the Silver-Haired Witch, Edward Dmytryk,
D.A. Pennebaker, Marco Ferreri's 1964 The Ape Woman, Children of the Corn goes
4K UHD and Female Mercenaries On Zombie Island Collection etc...
THIS WEEK'S REVIEWS:
Cary Grant and Katharine Hepburn vintage treat, Alain Delon has it rough with
Mireille Darc, Romy Schneider, Jane Birkin and Simone Signoret, William Castle
'City' Noir, Rita Hayworth and Mimsy Farmer, iPhone Indie, Sam Peckinpah
proto-type for The Wild Bunch, Wambaugh with Officer Paula Prentis, Euro Cult
genre, young French lovers on the run...
Enjoy,
Gary
P.S. Our July FEATURE 4K UHD and
Blu-ray of the MONTH is up:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film/feature.htm
RELEASES the WEEK of July 5th,
2021 (Recommended titles have "**")
42nd Street [Blu-ray]
(Mark Bramble, 1986) Liberator Films
US:
https://amzn.to/3qHiJCw
CAN: https://amzn.to/3whzWDN
COMMENTS: 42nd Street is the Broadway song and dance musical extravaganza, and
in the show's largest ever staging entertainment doesn't get bigger than this.
Peggy Sawyer is from small-town America and just a face in the chorus line of
'Pretty Lady', the new show from legendary director Julian Marsh. But when the
show's leading lady, Dorothy Brock is injured, Peggy's dreams of stardom just
may come true.
_________________________________
Tomás Aznar's "Beyond Terror"
Blu-ray - Raquel Ramírez @CauldronFilms
US:
https://amzn.to/3hoYAgm
CAN: https://amzn.to/3xf03fG
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/tomas-aznars-blu-53184335
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_140/beyond_terror_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: While I enjoyed Cauldron's simultaneously released The Crimes of the
Black Cat Blu-ray more, Beyond Terror has some unusually appealing genre
qualities and a scene or two reminiscent of David Cronenberg's Scanners. It's
quite a harsh film with gratuitous social violence and revenge shifting to a
creepy horror. The Cauldron Films Blu-ray. has the best a/v of the film we are
likely to get (the best its has ever looked on digital, by a wide margin) and
the invaluable Ellinger commentary. Fans keen on Euro-cult cinema may wish to
pick up this 'hard to see' curiosity. Pretty wild and not everyone's cup-of-tea.
I'm very intrigued by Cauldron Films and hope they continue to expose and
transfer these less-discussed genre films onto Blu-ray.
_________________________________
Harold Becker's "The Black
Marble" Blu-ray - Paula Prentiss @KinoLorber
US:
https://amzn.to/2TxpWbY
CAN: https://amzn.to/3hconcM
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_140/the_black_marble_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Harold Becker's The Black Marble is pretty cute involving a
cop-romance, a dognapping and the occupational hazards of law enforcement. It's
certainly not what you might expect from a Joseph Wambaugh novel adaptation with
many dark comedic moments. There are enjoyable characterizations from Paula
Prentiss, Harry Dean Stanton, Barbara Babcock and keep your eyes peeled for
James Woods. It's amusing but not great. I really like Harold Becker's work -
Sea of Love and Malice. The Kino Blu-ray includes the interesting commentary.
Those keen on the plot and cast may wish to indulge.
_________________________________
**Howard Hawks' "Bringing Up
Baby"** Blu-ray - Katharine Hepburn / Cary Grant @Criterion
US:
https://amzn.to/3vZjB6p
UK: https://amzn.to/3qDxaYb
CAN: https://amzn.to/3hePzGv
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/howard-hawks-up-53037389
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_140/bringing_up_baby_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: One of the most enjoyable of the Screwball comedies - one might aptly
say "quintessential" got the genre. Howard Hawks' Bringing Up Baby has slapstick
and romance, less frenetic than His Girl Friday but timeless in its joy of
unfettered Susan Vance (Katharine Hepburn) seeking fun... and a man - in the
guise of button-down David Huxley (Cary Grant) - eccentrically stuck in his own
world. Great dialogue, some famously improvised, and... a leopard. It seems
we've waited so long to have this pure classic on Blu-ray. Thanks Criterion. Our
highest recommendation!
_________________________________
**Sergio Pastore's "The Crimes
of the Black Cat"** Blu-ray - Sylva Koscina @CauldronFilms
US:
https://amzn.to/2U7iPqB
CAN: https://amzn.to/3A38M6I
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/sergio-pastores-52956956
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_140/the_crimes_of_the_black_cat_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Sergio Pastore's The Crimes of the Black Cat is a definite Giallo made
in the heart of the genre's production glut of the 70s. I was very entertained
by this thriller that was filled with mystery around the eventually exposed
murderer. The blind pianist as a 'detective' and English accent butler is an
appealing, infrequently utilized, trope. There is some skin and gore The shower
scene is quite graphic.) I'm very encouraged by Cauldron Films and hope they
continue to expose and transfer these less-discussed genre films onto Blu-ray.
The image quality is modest but consistent and it allowed me to see an
intriguing Giallo in 1080P with the two commentaries (the new Howarth and
Thompson one is highly recommended and all of the fine work of 'Fragments of
Fear - A Giallo Podcast'), plus the two featurettes on the director. This is
perfect for fans who embrace this desirable, stylish, and often addictive horror
genre.
_________________________________
The Dark and the Wicked
[Blu-ray] (Bryan Bertino, 2020) RB UK Acorn
UK:
https://amzn.to/3xuNUTy
COMMENTS: On a secluded farm, a man is bedridden and fighting through his final
breaths while his wife slowly succumbs to overwhelming grief. Siblings Louise
and Michael return home to help, but it doesn’t take long for them to see that
something’s wrong with mom, something more than her heavy sorrow. Gradually,
they begin to suffer a darkness similar to their mother’s, marked by waking
nightmares and a growing sense that an evil entity is taking over their family.
_________________________________
Dark Spell [Blu-ray] (Svyatoslav
Podgaevskiy, 2021) Shout! Factory
US:
https://amzn.to/3vhfcvA
CAN: https://amzn.to/36dJ55v
COMMENTS: A young woman suffers from being in love with her husband that has
left her, so she decides to bring him back with a spell called "Black Wedding",
which is a magical ritual known for its great power and irreversibility. After
the ritual, her beloved spouse comes back, his love becomes more like an
obsession and he is even ready to kill her so as not to give her to anyone. When
the maddened husband dies, the demonic possession does not stop.
_________________________________
**Stanley Kubrick's "Dr.
Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb"**
4K UHD - Peter Sellers
US:
https://amzn.to/3hwFNj7
CAN: https://amzn.to/3hggSRY
UK: https://amzn.to/3hwH1ed
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/stanley-kubricks-53289384
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_140/dr_strangelove_4K_UHD.htm
COMMENTS: Sony's 4K UHD release of Stanley Kubrick's "Dr. Strangelove or: How I
Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb" has a demonstrative upgrade in video
- especially for those who appreciate film grain. It's stacked with extras and
for lovers of the director's work, this seems a no-brainer purchase if you
didn't nab the Columbia Classics 4K Ultra HD Collection 4K UHD package. Dr.
Strangelove is a film you watch repeatedly and it this 3840 X 2160 transfer has
a special place in my digital library despite the audio stasis. It, of course,
has our highest recommendation and its rightful place in our Feature disc of the
Month.
_________________________________
Emanuelle and the White Slave
Trade [Blu-ray] (Joe D'Amato, 1978) Full Moon Features
US:
https://amzn.to/3d1rKj9
CAN: https://amzn.to/3hcgNi6
COMMENTS: Laura Gemser returns to the role that made her famous in this
scintillating work of depraved erotica, one of the many controversial entries in
Italian director Joe D'Amato's Black Emanuelle series. EMANUELLE AND THE WHITE
SLAVE TRADE (aka LA VIA DELLA PROSTITUZIONE and EMANUELLE AND THE GIRLS OF
MADAME CLAUDE) sees Gemser's comely and sexually curious journalist tracking
down a notorious Mafia boss to the jungles of Kenya in hopes of interviewing him
for her newspaper. Along the way, Emanuelle inadvertently stumbles upon an even
more sensational story, that of a vile international white slavery ring, run by
the sadistic Madame Claude.
_________________________________
Emanuelle: Black Velvet
[Blu-ray] (Brunello Rondi, 1976) Full Moon Features
US:
https://amzn.to/3u2A1dw
CAN: https://amzn.to/3hzeVPn
COMMENTS: The stunning Laura Gemser (EMANUELLE IN AMERICA, EMANUELLE AND THE
WHITE SLAVE TRADE) returns to the character that has defined her career in this
lush erotic drama. EMANUELLE: BLACK VELVET (aka BLACK EMMANUELLE, WHITE
EMMANUELLE and VELUTTO NERO) sees Gemser playing an incarnation of the famous
globe-trotting model/reporter (here inexplicably referred to as just Laura) as
she travels to the sweltering deserts of Egypt with her macho fashion
photographer boyfriend Carlo (Gabrielle Tinti, LISA AND THE DEVIL). Initially
planning to simply visit her wealthy friend Crystal (Nieves Navarro, DEATH WALKS
AT MIDNIGHT), the depressed damsel soon finds herself falling into a series of
increasingly sensual encounters, while fixing her lustful attentions on
Crystal's comely daughter Pia.
_________________________________
Espaldas Mojadas aka Wet Backs
[Blu-ray] (Alejandro Galindo, 1955) VCI
US:
https://amzn.to/31roF6G
CAN: https://amzn.to/3qJjWsZ
COMMENTS: Espaldas Mojadas is a classic Mexican film from 1955, that is still
relevant today, which portrays the difficult working conditions for Mexicans who
decide to emigrate to the U.S. in search of the American dream. Mexican worker
Rafael Améndola runs from the police and crosses the Mexican-American border,
helped by an American, who gives work to illegal migrants. Once in the United
States, Rafael struggles to adapt to his new life.
_________________________________
Futtocks End and Other Short
Stories [Blu-ray] (A HOME OF YOUR OWN, SAN FERRY ANN, FUTTOCKS END,
VIVE LE SPORT) RB UK Network
UK:
https://amzn.to/3fccgvm
COMMENTS: A notable presence in the British film industry for several decades
and a key director of 1970s film comedies – including outings for Frankie Howerd,
Alf Garnett and Danny la Rue – Bob Kellett also produced four of the funniest
short films ever made for British cinema. Starring Ronnie Barker, Richard
Briers, Bernard Cribbins, Barbara Windsor, David Lodge, Wilfrid Brambell, Joan
Sims and Michael Hordern, these films were "wordless" – their humour carried by
performance, sound effects and music.
_________________________________
The House on Sorority Row
[Blu-ray] (Mark Rosman, 1982) Mvd Visual
US:
https://amzn.to/34rXWsm
CAN: https://amzn.to/3dZcsx1
ALT-BEAVER REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film4/blu-ray_reviews_61/house_on_sorority_row_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Come meet the girls of Theta Pi. All through college they've lived
under the tyranny of their resident house mother. But tonight will be different.
Tonight the girls of Theta Pi are celebrating their graduation in the most
deadly way they know. You're invited to join them for this night of terror and
madness – the fatal last fling of Theta Pi – in the smash hit film THE HOUSE ON
SORORITY ROW.
_________________________________
Howard the Duck [4K UHD Blu-ray]
(Willard Huyck, 1986) Universal Pictures
US:
https://amzn.to/3iT098p
CAN: https://amzn.to/3ykVp02
UK: https://amzn.to/3iT3HHZ
COMMENTS: A sarcastic humanoid duck is pulled from his homeworld to Earth where
he must stop an alien invasion with the help of a nerdy scientist and a
struggling female rock singer.
_________________________________
**Georges Lautner's "Icy
Breasts"** Blu-ray - Mireille Darc / Alain Delon @KinoLorber
US:
https://amzn.to/3jDdphV
CA: https://amzn.to/3h7HXqw
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/georges-lautners-53180032
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_140/icy_breasts_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Georges Lautner's Les seins de glace purposely disorients the viewer.
It's refreshing in that sense. We don't really know much about what will
transpire. I'll always remember Mireille Darc, for the backless dress she wore
in The Tall Blond Man with One Black Shoe . She's enigmatic and deftly keeps you
unbalanced. Both male leads have a protective nature towards her, with different
intentions. It was very entertaining. I liked it far more than the usual
critical response it received. The Kino Blu-ray has a very under-discussed,
fascinating film and the edifying commentary that will enhance your
appreciation. Strongly recommended!
_________________________________
Just Like a Woman
[Blu-ray] (Robert Fuest, 1967) RB UK Network
UK:
https://amzn.to/3wnioGL
COMMENTS: Wendy Craig and Francis Matthews star as a bickering couple going
through an acrimonious separation in this swinging, offbeat comedy from producer
Bob Kellett and idiosyncratic writer/director Robert Fuest. Also starring John
Wood, Dennis Price, Miriam Karlin, Peter Jones and Clive Dunn. Lewis and
Scilla's rocky marriage finally breaks apart – a situation made worse by the
fact that Scilla is a key part of the television show that Lewis produces. But
while Lewis copes by picking up a passing starlet, Scilla indulges her passion
for bathrooms by getting one custom-designed by an ex-Nazi architect!
_________________________________
The Last Time I Committed
Suicide [Blu-ray] (Stephen Kay, 1997) MVD Marquee Collection
US:
https://amzn.to/3lWfHrC
CAN: https://amzn.to/3dHa5i6
COMMENTS: Meet Neal Cassady (Thomas Jane, The Mist). He's got a poet's soul, a
dreamer's heart and a choice to make. Caught between the allure of a drifter's
life on the road and the security of a traditional home, Neal must decide which
future he most desires. From writer and director Stephen Kay (''Yellowstone'',
Get Carter) and also starring Keanu Reeves (John Wick), Claire Forlani
(Mallrats), Adrien Brody (The Pianist), Marg Helgenberger (Species), Amy Smart
(The Butterfly Effect), Lucinda Jenney (Rain Man) and Gretchen Mol (3:10 to
Yuma), The Last Time I Committed Suicide is the unforgettable story of love,
friendship and discovering how to stay a beat ahead of the crowd.
_________________________________
**Andrei Tarkovsky's "Mirror"**
Blu-ray - Margarita Terekhova @Criterion
US:
https://amzn.to/3e4XEvS
CAN: https://amzn.to/3gSWSDs
UK: https://amzn.to/3zJRxXF
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/andrei-mirror-52756904
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film5/blu-ray_reviews_72/mirror_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: What a fabulous surprise. I was hoping that the Criterion Blu-ray
would turn out just as it has. Easily the best a/v presentation of one of my all
time favorite films (my eldest son's middle name is 'Andrei'). An obvious
frontrunner for our 2021 Year End Poll and inclusion in our Desert Island Discs.
For a film so visually arresting, filled with art, memory, poetry that you can
see is multiple times gaining appreciation each viewing. Criterion Blu-ray is a
revelation and a must-own for all cinephiles. Our highest recommendation!
_________________________________
Moments Without Proper Names
[Blu-ray] (Gordon Parks, 1987) Kino
US:
https://amzn.to/2QMh5C8
CAN: https://amzn.to/3wfN8ZM
COMMENTS: In his final film as director, Gordon Parks (The Learning Tree, Shaft)
turned the camera upon himself and created a deeply personal and remarkably
poetic self-portrait. Moments Without Proper Names blends Parks’s striking
photographs (spanning four decades) with newly-shot footage of the artist, his
own musical compositions, and personal reminiscences performed by a trio of
esteemed actors: Avery Brooks, Roscoe Lee Browne, and Joe Seneca. Restored from
the original camera negatives, presented in cooperation with the Gordon Parks
Foundation and the Library of Congress, Moments Without Proper Names offers a
penetrating gaze into the life and mind of one of the 20th Century’s most
celebrated artists.
_________________________________
Mortuary [Blu-ray]
(Howard Avedis, 1983) MVD Rewind Collection
US:
https://amzn.to/39BTXMX
CAN: https://amzn.to/3hfRrA1
COMMENTS: Convinced that her father's death was not accidental, a beautiful girl
decides to investigate to find out the truth, aided by her boyfriend. Her
sleuthing draws her to a local mortuary, where many secrets will be revealed.
_________________________________
New Battles Without Honor and
Humanity [Blu-ray] (New Battles Without Honour and Humanity, The Boss’s
Head, Last Days of the Boss) Arrow US
US:
https://amzn.to/3xCULdZ
CAN: https://amzn.to/36acAoK
COMMENTS: In the early 1970s, Kinji Fukasaku’s five-film Battles Without Honor
and Humanity series was a massive hit in Japan, and kicked off a boom in
realistic, modern yakuza films based on true stories. Although Fukasaku had
intended to end the series, Toei Studio convinced him to return to the
director’s chair for this unconnected, follow-up trilogy of films, each starring
Battles leading man Bunta Sugawara and telling separate, but fictional stories
about the yakuza in different locations in Japan.
_________________________________
O. Henry's Full House
[Blu-ray] (Henry Hathaway, Howard Hawks etc.,1952) RB UK Signal One
Entertainment
UK:
https://amzn.to/3n4ZnEG
COMMENTS: Soapy (Charles Laughton) believes that getting arrested and thrown
into a warm jail cell is the best solution to being homeless in cold weather.
Fugitives Sam (Fred Allen) and Bill kidnap a child to raise $2,000 for a new
scam, and Della and Jim seek to buy each other Christmas gifts on a tight
budget. This anthology of five short stories by author O. Henry includes "The
Cop and the Anthem," "The Clarion Call," "The Last Leaf," "The Ransom of Red
Chief" and "The Gift of the Magi."
_________________________________
The Phantom of the Air
[Blu-ray] (Ray Taylor, 1933) VCI
US:
https://amzn.to/3rsbFZk
CAN: https://amzn.to/3yobcee
COMMENTS: After inventing an anti-gravity device called the Contragrav,
scientist Thomas Edmunds and his daughter, Mary, attend the National Air Races
in Cleveland, Ohio in search of a pilot to demonstrate the device and Bob
Raymond, from the U.S. Border Patrol, is chosen. Unbeknownst to Edmunds and
Mary, Mortimor Crome, who is the owner of the International Import and Export
Company and a friend of Mary's, is actually the leader of a gang of smuggler's
and is after Edmund's invention. During the demonstration at the air meet, Bob
Raymond narrowly escapes death after his aircraft is sabotaged by Mortimer Crome
and one of his cronies. This leads to Raymond being all-in and coming to Edmunds
aid in foiling Crome's plans and ultimately defeating him, using another of
Edmund's inventions, which was a superplane, called the Phantom.
_________________________________
**Psycho [4K UHD Blu-ray]**
(Alfred Hitchcock, 1960) Universal UK
UK:
https://amzn.to/3u9SqVB
Already out in:
US:
https://amzn.to/3vj9nic
CAN: https://amzn.to/3jGubwA
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_127/psycho_4K_UHD.htm
COMMENTS: Alfred Hitchcock's Psycho is groundbreaking with elements from horror
to Film Noir, and is many fans favorite from 'The Master'. The 4K UHD is a
revelation for video purists (grain, grain, grain), but not audio purists (the
missing original mono.) It's still a must-own and will, also, make it's way to
our Desert Island selection in the next update. Along with absent mono, is the
frustrating packaging (cardboard sleeves where you must slide the, tightly held,
discs out) making this set exasperating for some... but, in my opinion, the
value outweighs the flaws. I have had to eject and wipe the discs over a dozen
times - I will be moving them to my own, homemade, standard packaging. If you
intend on watching them a lot (you will!,) I suggest doing similar.
_________________________________
The Pursuit of Love
[Blu-ray] (Emily Mortimer, 2021) RB UK Dazzler Media
UK:
https://amzn.to/3xi0RRc
COMMENTS: 1920s, Oxfordshire. On the brink of adulthood, Linda Radlett (Lily
James) and her beloved cousin Fanny Logan (Emily Beecham) are stuck in the
countryside, impatiently waiting for life to begin so they can escape the
confines of Alconleigh. Linda, who has lived her life under the terrifying
regime of Uncle Matthew (Dominic West), dreams of excitement and adventure. But
Fanny, abandoned by her mother The Bolter (Emily Mortimer) and raised by her
Aunt Emily (Annabel Mullion), is more concerned with comfort and stability.
_________________________________
La rebelión de los colgados aka
The Rebelion Of The Hanged [Blu-ray] (Alfredo B. Crevenna, 1954) VCI
US:
https://amzn.to/3rMmy8g
CAN: https://amzn.to/2TxJnl8
COMMENTS: A logging camp, deep in the Mexican jungle is the setting for this
dark, cataclysmic drama. A man and his family go to work in a mahogany camp,
only to find themselves and their coworkers treated as semi-slave laborers and
the recipients of beatings and brutal punishments. Pushed to the brink of fury,
the man decides the only way out for himself, and his coworkers, is for him to
lead them in a violent and bloody revolt against their oppressors.
_________________________________
Rentadick [Blu-ray]
(Jim Clark, 1972) RB UK Network
UK:
https://amzn.to/3xDhKoX
COMMENTS: Originally scripted by comedy legends John Cleese and Graham Chapman,
this hilarious farce was the first of only two main features from cult director
(and Oscar-winning editor) Jim Clark. Starring James Booth, Richard Briers and
Richard Beckinsale as three hapless private investigators. Armitage, a rich
scientist, has problems. Not only is his luscious wife being pursued (and
caught) by all and sundry, but his laboratory is under threat of industrial
espionage. He engages private detectives to protect both his business and his
wife, but the service he receives is certainly not what he was expecting!
_________________________________
The Ringmaster
[Blu-ray] (Søren Juul Petersen, 2018) Jinga Films Ltd
US:
https://amzn.to/3bHcoQr
CAN: https://amzn.to/3hzaR1z
COMMENTS: Two young women working the night shift at a secluded gas station
unwittingly become the stars of a terrifying show streamed live on the dark web.
Held captive by a sadistic ringmaster and his cohorts, their survival instincts
are stretched to the limit as they are forced to participate in a torture game
with an unseen audience deciding their fate. Based on the award winning novel by
Steen Langstrup, The Ringmaster explores our curiosity and complicity with
voyeurism and violence in the age of the internet.
_________________________________
**Georges Lautner's "The Road to
Salina"** Blu-ray - Mimsy Farmer @KinoLorber
US:
https://amzn.to/3jFzkoL
CAN: https://amzn.to/3hcL4gH
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/georges-lautners-53263589
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_140/the_road_to_salina_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Georges Lautner's The Road to Salina is another curious film by this
impressive director with themes of incest, jealousy, delusion, mental health,
deception, desire etc.. It is always exporting a 'mystery' angle of unspoken
details through piercing, interpretive, eye contact with the camera or shots
through mirrors, unique edits etc.. The commentary will expand your knowledge
and spur further interest in Lautner's work. The Kino Blu-ray finally does
justice to this beautiful film that has languished in cropped video releases
until now. A fascinating, mystifying, film that is a definite keeper. Strongly
recommended!
_________________________________
Scott Pilgrim vs. the World [4K
UHD Blu-ray] (Edgar Wright, 2010) Universal
US:
https://amzn.to/3AnXABH
CAN: https://amzn.to/3hftf0x
UK: https://amzn.to/3xt4OlS
COMMENTS: Game on! Scott Pilgrim just met the girl of his dreams…literally. But
in order for them to date, he must defeat her seven evil exes – a rogues’
gallery, including an infamous skateboarder, a vegan rock star and fearsome
identical twins! From the genre-smashing director of Hot Fuzz and Shaun of the
Dead comes “a true original” (Entertainment Weekly ) powered up by wit, action
and groundbreaking visuals that you will want to watch again as soon as it’s
over!
_________________________________
Powell Robinson and Patrick
Robert Young's "Threshold" Blu-ray - Madison West @ArrowFilmsVideo
US:
https://amzn.to/3jDOivA
UK: https://amzn.to/3haPJ2I
CAN: https://amzn.to/3hxyDez
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/threshold-blu-53219292
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_140/threshold_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: I really appreciate that Arrow are releasing modern Indie films, like
this, on Blu-ray (The Stylist, A Ghost Waits and The Bloodhound) that have been
under-seen because of the COVID lockdown cancellation of many festivals. This
again is stacked (commentaries, extensive 'making of', roundtable discussion
etc.) with extensive details on production. It's an encouragement to self-made
filmmakers everywhere. I love the support they are providing to more pragmatic
efforts and I enjoyed this film as a 'road picture', sibling bonding and the
surprise conclusion. It was short enough to warrant a sequel or series
continuing the occult-focused adventure. There is value here for those pining
for festival content and curious cinephiles. Certainly recommended!
_________________________________
**Pierre Granier-Deferre's "The
Widow Couderc"** Blu-ray - Alain Delon, Simone Signoret @KinoLorber
US:
https://amzn.to/3dv6Z0j
CAN: https://amzn.to/3hrz9ul
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/pierre-granier-53176125
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_140/the_widow_couderc_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS; Pierre Granier-Deferre's The Widow Couderc is excellent. I loved so
many things about it - the 'blank slate' character of Delon, the furtive stares
and how it captures an authentic representation of the time and place - a small
French village - bad secrets, everyone knows each other's business and how
people survive. The Kino Blu-ray has a 4K-restored transfer of a mysterious film
with two great actors; Simone Signoret and Alain Delon, a revealing commentary
and we certainly recommend to fans of the stars or French cinema during the 70s.
_________________________________
**West 11** [Blu-ray]
(Michael Winner, 1963) RB UK Studio Canal
UK:
https://amzn.to/3gKPp9I
COMMENTS: Based on the novel The Furnished Room by Laura Del-Rivo and filmed on
location in Notting Hill, Michael Winners foray into British social realism sees
an authentic portrayal of the grittier, darker side of West London in the 60s.
Joe Beckett, seasoned citizen of the bed-sitter belt is the renegade son of
middle-class parents and as he himself describes it, 'an emotional leper'. He
decides that he needs a violent shock to shake him back into life and as a
result accepts a criminal commission from a man he meets in a coffee bar.
_________________________________
Young Wives' Tale
[Blu-ray] (Henry Cass, 1951) RB UK Network
UK:
https://amzn.to/35AVfFv
COMMENTS: Joan Greenwood reprises her hit stage performance as a frustrated
housewife in the film adaptation of this popular West End farce. Co-starring
Nigel Patrick and Derek Farr – and showcasing a memorable early performance from
Audrey Hepburn. Compelled to live together due to the post-war housing shortage,
the Pennants and the Bannings just about get along... but add in a brace of
babies, a succession of nannies and a shy-but-pretty lodger, and the situation
very soon starts to unravel!
_______________________________
LATEST CALENDAR UPDATES:
July 26th, 2011
The Ape Woman (Marco
Ferreri, 1964) RB UK Cult Films
https://amzn.to/3ymvfdb
August 2nd, 2021
**Blow Out** (Brian De
Palma, 1981) Criterion UK
https://amzn.to/3whqobJ
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film3/blu-ray_reviews53/blow_out_blu-ray.htm
August 16th, 2011
**A Man Called Adam**
(Leo Penn, 1966) RB UK Studiocanal
https://amzn.to/2V8sii7
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_134/a_man_called_adam_blu-ray.htm
August 23rd, 2021
Chinese Box (Wayne
Wang, 1997) Imprint
https://amzn.to/3xtJA7q
September 6th, 2021
**The Films of Olivier Assayas**
(Disorder, Winter's Child, Irma Vep, Demon Lover) Arrow UK
https://amzn.to/36ekZYl
**Star Trek: The Original
Series: The Complete Series (Steelbook)** - Paramount
https://amzn.to/3ym8pm1
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film2/DVDReviews45/star_trek_season_one_blu-ray.htm
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film6/blu-ray_reviews_76/star_trek_season_two_blu-ray.htm
**Walk on the Wild Side**
(Edward Dmytryk, 1962) Arrow
https://amzn.to/3jBXTD4
September 13th, 2021
**Cold War Creatures: Four Films
from Sam Katzman** (Creature with the Atom Brain, The Werewolf.,
Zombies of Mora Tau and The Giant Claw) Arrow US
US:
https://amzn.to/3wbLMPz
UK: https://amzn.to/3jHG5qc
Death Screams (David
Nelson, 1982) Arrow US
US:
https://amzn.to/3ygdUT8
UK:
https://amzn.to/3hxJBRg
Original Cast Album: Company
[Blu-ray] (D.A. Pennebaker, 1970) Criterion UK
https://amzn.to/3dGC2Xs
September 20th, 2021
**The Snake Girl and the
Silver-Haired Witch** (Noriaki Yuasa, 1968) Arrow US
US:
https://amzn.to/3xjwYzI
UK:
https://amzn.to/36doyy8
September 27th, 2021
Beasts of No Nation
[Blu-ray] (Cary Joji Fukunaga, 2015) Criterion UK
https://amzn.to/3xgziYr
Children of the Corn 4K UHD
(Fritz Kiersch, 1984) Arrow US
US:
https://amzn.to/3heEZAw
UK:https://amzn.to/3dGJmlL
October 4th, 2021
Angel on My Shoulder
(Archie Mayo, 1946) VCI
https://amzn.to/3ArsSrr
Female Mercenaries On Zombie
Island Collection (Mad Doctor of Zombie Island, If A God Should Fail,
The Misadventures of Fanny Starr) - Camp Motion Pictures
https://amzn.to/3hsj73y
October 18th, 2021
Demons + Demons 2 - 4K UHD
- Synapse
https://amzn.to/2UVnTij
________________________________________________
Photo Archives" for Patrons:
Gloria Grahame:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/gloria_grahame_photo_archive.htm
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Monica Vitti:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/monica_vitti_photo_archive.htm
________________
Paul Newman:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/paul_newman_photo_archive.htm
________________
Susan George:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/susan_george_photo_archive.htm
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Jacqueline Bisset:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/jacqueline_bisset_photo_archive.htm
________________
Suzanne Pleshette:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/suzanne_pleshette_photo_archive.htm
________________________________________________
THIS WEEK'S REVIEWS:
**Stanley Kubrick's "Dr.
Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb"** 4K UHD
- Peter Sellers
US:
https://amzn.to/3hwFNj7
CAN: https://amzn.to/3hggSRY
UK: https://amzn.to/3hwH1ed
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/stanley-kubricks-53289384
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_140/dr_strangelove_4K_UHD.htm
COMMENTS: Sony's 4K UHD release of Stanley Kubrick's "Dr. Strangelove or: How I
Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb" has a demonstrative upgrade in video
- especially for those who appreciate film grain. It's stacked with extras and
for lovers of the director's work, this seems a no-brainer purchase if you
didn't nab the Columbia Classics 4K Ultra HD Collection 4K UHD package. Dr.
Strangelove is a film you watch repeatedly and it this 3840 X 2160 transfer has
a special place in my digital library despite the audio stasis. It, of course,
has our highest recommendation and its rightful place in our Feature disc of the
Month.
_________________________________
**Georges Lautner's "The Road to
Salina"** Blu-ray - Mimsy Farmer @KinoLorber
US:
https://amzn.to/3jFzkoL
CAN: https://amzn.to/3hcL4gH
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/georges-lautners-53263589
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_140/the_road_to_salina_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Georges Lautner's The Road to Salina is another curious film by this
impressive director with themes of incest, jealousy, delusion, mental health,
deception, desire etc.. It is always exporting a 'mystery' angle of unspoken
details through piercing, interpretive, eye contact with the camera or shots
through mirrors, unique edits etc.. The commentary will expand your knowledge
and spur further interest in Lautner's work. The Kino Blu-ray finally does
justice to this beautiful film that has languished in cropped video releases
until now. A fascinating, mystifying, film that is a definite keeper. Strongly
recommended!
_________________________________
**William Castle's "Hollywood
Story"** Blu-ray - Richard Conte @imprint_films
US:
https://amzn.to/3iVLkC3
CAN: https://amzn.to/2TRrPQG
UK: https://amzn.to/3gM25Ow
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/william-castles-53222264
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_125/hollywood_story_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Another of the many 'City'-titled Noirs or crime dramas of the era
like The Tijuana Story, The Miami Story, New Orleans Uncensored and The Phenix
City Story. Hollywood Story is a good one - Conte in fine form, comely Julie
Adams and sly Henry Hull! I am very happy to own on Imprint's superior Blu-ray
with the commentary and interview extras. An easy recommendation to dark cinema
aficionados although the debate rages on about its inclusion as a true Noir. I
think it qualifies. Indulge yourself in Imprint's Essential Film Noir:
Collection 2 Blu-ray set!
_________________________________
Powell Robinson and Patrick
Robert Young's "Threshold" Blu-ray - Madison West @ArrowFilmsVideo
US:
https://amzn.to/3jDOivA
UK: https://amzn.to/3haPJ2I
CAN: https://amzn.to/3hxyDez
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/threshold-blu-53219292
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_140/threshold_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: I really appreciate that Arrow are releasing modern Indie films, like
this, on Blu-ray (The Stylist, A Ghost Waits and The Bloodhound) that have been
under-seen because of the COVID lockdown cancellation of many festivals. This
again is stacked (commentaries, extensive 'making of', roundtable discussion
etc.) with extensive details on production. It's an encouragement to self-made
filmmakers everywhere. I love the support they are providing to more pragmatic
efforts and I enjoyed this film as a 'road picture', sibling bonding and the
surprise conclusion. It was short enough to warrant a sequel or series
continuing the occult-focused adventure. There is value here for those pining
for festival content and curious cinephiles. Certainly recommended!
_________________________________
Harold Becker's "The Black
Marble" Blu-ray - Paula Prentiss @KinoLorber
US:
https://amzn.to/2TxpWbY
CAN: https://amzn.to/3hconcM
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_140/the_black_marble_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Harold Becker's The Black Marble is pretty cute involving a
cop-romance, a dognapping and the occupational hazards of law enforcement. It's
certainly not what you might expect from a Joseph Wambaugh novel adaptation with
many dark comedic moments. There are enjoyable characterizations from Paula
Prentiss, Harry Dean Stanton, Barbara Babcock and keep your eyes peeled for
James Woods. It's amusing but not great. I really like Harold Becker's work -
Sea of Love and Malice. The Kino Blu-ray includes the interesting commentary.
Those keen on the plot and cast may wish to indulge.
_________________________________
Fabrice du Welz's "Adoration"
Blu-ray - Thomas Gioria @AltInnocence
US:
https://amzn.to/3xcFDnz
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/fabrice-du-welzs-53212350
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_140/adoration_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Adoration is said to be the completion of Fabrice du Welz’s Ardennes
trilogy (Calvaire, Alleluia). The film lacks the previous two films' fascination
with violence, offering up a simpler storyline loaded with symbolism and
ambiguity. Altered Innocence's Blu-ray contains a vivid digital transfer of the
16mm film, with a lovely interview with the director as an added bonus. Worth
checking out for both fans of du Welz and newcomers alike. - Colin Zavitz
_________________________________
Tomás Aznar's "Beyond Terror"
Blu-ray - Raquel Ramírez @CauldronFilms
US:
https://amzn.to/3hoYAgm
CAN: https://amzn.to/3xf03fG
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/tomas-aznars-blu-53184335
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_140/beyond_terror_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: While I enjoyed Cauldron's simultaneously released The Crimes of the
Black Cat Blu-ray more, Beyond Terror has some unusually appealing genre
qualities and a scene or two reminiscent of David Cronenberg's Scanners. It's
quite a harsh film with gratuitous social violence and revenge shifting to a
creepy horror. The Cauldron Films Blu-ray. has the best a/v of the film we are
likely to get (the best its has ever looked on digital, by a wide margin) and
the invaluable Ellinger commentary. Fans keen on Euro-cult cinema may wish to
pick up this 'hard to see' curiosity. Pretty wild and not everyone's cup-of-tea.
I'm very intrigued by Cauldron Films and hope they continue to expose and
transfer these less-discussed genre films onto Blu-ray.
_________________________________
**Georges Lautner's "Icy
Breasts"** Blu-ray - Mireille Darc / Alain Delon @KinoLorber
US:
https://amzn.to/3jDdphV
CA: https://amzn.to/3h7HXqw
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/georges-lautners-53180032
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_140/icy_breasts_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Georges Lautner's Les seins de glace purposely disorients the viewer.
It's refreshing in that sense. We don't really know much about what will
transpire. I'll always remember Mireille Darc, for the backless dress she wore
in The Tall Blond Man with One Black Shoe . She's enigmatic and deftly keeps you
unbalanced. Both male leads have a protective nature towards her, with different
intentions. It was very entertaining. I liked it far more than the usual
critical response it received. The Kino Blu-ray has a very under-discussed,
fascinating film and the edifying commentary that will enhance your
appreciation. Strongly recommended!
_________________________________
**Pierre Granier-Deferre's "The
Widow Couderc"** Blu-ray - Alain Delon, Simone Signoret @KinoLorber
US:
https://amzn.to/3dv6Z0j
CAN: https://amzn.to/3hrz9ul
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/pierre-granier-53176125
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_140/the_widow_couderc_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS; Pierre Granier-Deferre's The Widow Couderc is excellent. I loved so
many things about it - the 'blank slate' character of Delon, the furtive stares
and how it captures an authentic representation of the time and place - a small
French village - bad secrets, everyone knows each other's business and how
people survive. The Kino Blu-ray has a 4K-restored transfer of a mysterious film
with two great actors; Simone Signoret and Alain Delon, a revealing commentary
and we certainly recommend to fans of the stars or French cinema during the 70s.
_________________________________
**Jacques Deray's "La Piscine"**
Blu-ray - Alain Delon, Romy Schneider, Jane Birkin @Criterion
US:
https://amzn.to/3ycan8j
CAN: https://amzn.to/3qFyl9v
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/jacques-derays-53171381
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_140/la_piscene_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Jacques Deray's La Piscene is a masterpiece of seduction, jealously,
lust, flirtation, the competitive nature of men and a sophisticated amoral view
of love. It is as stunning as I have ever seen it - looking so rich and gorgeous
via Criterion's new 4K restored Blu-ray transfer. La piscine was the fourth most
popular movie in France in 1969! In its historical legacy - during the making of
La piscine - the 'Markovic Affair' rose to prominence - where the body of Stevan
Markovic, Alain Delon's bodyguard, was discovered discarded a public dump in
late 1968. This Blu-ray gets out highest recommendation!
_________________________________
**Howard Hawks' "Bringing Up
Baby"** Blu-ray - Katharine Hepburn / Cary Grant @Criterion
US:
https://amzn.to/3vZjB6p
UK: https://amzn.to/3qDxaYb
CAN: https://amzn.to/3hePzGv
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/howard-hawks-up-53037389
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_140/bringing_up_baby_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: One of the most enjoyable of the Screwball comedies - one might aptly
say "quintessential" got the genre. Howard Hawks' Bringing Up Baby has slapstick
and romance, less frenetic than His Girl Friday but timeless in its joy of
unfettered Susan Vance (Katharine Hepburn) seeking fun... and a man - in the
guise of button-down David Huxley (Cary Grant) - eccentrically stuck in his own
world. Great dialogue, some famously improvised, and... a leopard. It seems
we've waited so long to have this pure classic on Blu-ray. Thanks Criterion. Our
highest recommendation!
_________________________________
**Sam Peckinpah's "Major
Dundee"** Blu-ray - Charlton Heston @ArrowFilmsVideo @imprint_films
US:
https://amzn.to/3hg3Jab
UK: https://amzn.to/3dnqcB5
CAN: https://amzn.to/3h8wu8S
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/sam-peckinpahs-53026012
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_140/major_dundee_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Arrow Video and Imprint's beautiful Blu-ray releases of Major Dundee
should surely please fans. The extended version of the film is from a 4K scan on
both sets (Arrow mentions that the 2nd disc 'Theatrical Cut' is from a 2K scan,
but I could hardly notice a difference). From the extensive extras (deleted
scenes, commentaries galore, etc) one can learn to appreciate the absolute
madness that went into this film's creation. Certainly not for everyone, tonally
inconsistent, yet in my mind, a must-see for Peckinpah fans. These Blu-ray
editions are stacked and totally complete. - Colin Zavitz
_________________________
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/DVDBeaver_newsletter_July_5th_2021.htm