DVDBeaver Newsletter
for the Week of June 14th, 2021
http://www.dvdbeaver.com
THIS WEEK RELEASES include a Robert Wiene silent era
crime-horror-sci/fi-mystery in the vein of Fritz Lang, Wolfgang Petersen in 4K
UHD with Clint, John Sturges with Kirk Douglas and Anthony Quinn, Giant Japanese
lizard vs. equally as big Gorilla in 4K UHD, Criterion in the UK does Dorothy
Arzner, pioneering Larry Peerce debut, Ron Swanson and company, Lionel Jeffries
directs Jenny Agutter, Sergey Bondarchuk does Napoleon, Vincente Minnelli
musical, Hal Needham, Hou Hsiao-Hsien surfaces in Region 'B'...
THIS WEEK's CALENDAR UPDATES
include George Stevens, Billy Wilder, Frank Borzage, Jacques Tourneur, Robert
Altman, David Lynch, Roger Corman, Cecil B. DeMille, Don Siegel, Mitchell Leisen,
John Sturges, Irving Pichel, Henry Hathaway, Yasuzô Masumura, Eloy De La Iglesia
and more...
THIS WEEK'S REVIEWS:
Peter Lorre as a disfigured watchmaker who gravitates to crime lord then falls
for a blind girl (Evelyn Keyes) - WOW!, Criterion offers two films on one
Blu-ray that create a devastatingly frank, empathetic portrait of lost youth,
Karel Reisz directs one of James Caan's best performances; a well-respected
professor of literature who's hopelessly addicted to gambling, quintessential
AIP (American International Pictures) - a murderous monsters flic on a stacked
Shout! Factory Blu-ray, Mae West reunites with Cary Grant, Gold
adventure-seekers documentary, Criterion offers a deeply felt portrait of
characters finding strength in vulnerability and liberation.... plus more.
Enjoy,
Gary
RELEASES the WEEK of June 14th,
2021 (Recommended titles have "**")
Anything for Jackson
[Blu-ray] (Justin G. Dyck, 2020) Image Entertainment
US:
https://amzn.to/3wXgvSh
CAN: https://amzn.to/3cDuhRz
COMMENTS: A bereaved Satanist couple kidnap a pregnant woman so they can use an
ancient spellbook to put their dead grandson's spirit into her unborn child but
end up summoning more than they bargained for.
___________________________________
The Awakening [Blu-ray]
(Mike Newell, 1980) Shout! Factory
US:
https://amzn.to/3ld0B0l
CAN: https://amzn.to/3gtBYLd
COMMENTS: Two-time Academy Award winner Charlton Heston stars as an
archaeologist driven to destroy the ancient evil he unleashes when his research
causes The Awakening. Matthew Corbeck (Heston, Ben-Hur) is obsessed with finding
and opening the tomb of the murderous ancient Egyptian queen Kara, to the point
of neglecting his pregnant wife (Jill Townsend, Poldark) even as she delivers
their baby. But the evil that Corbeck frees takes possession of his newborn
daughter. Now, eighteen years later, Corbeck's daughter, Margaret (Stephanie
Zimbalist, Remington Steele), returns to Egypt to meet her father for the first
time—and Corbeck must overcome powerful occult forces to destroy the evil he
loosed upon the world!
___________________________________
The Being [Blu-ray]
(Jackie Kong, 1983) Code Red
US:
https://amzn.to/2OGtpTo
CAN: https://amzn.to/3goXUs9
COMMENTS: A strange creature roams and kills people in the small town of
Pottsville. Local cop, Detective Mortimer Lutz (Bill Osco) is on the case as the
fiendish beast kills losers one by one in this classic 80s monster film! Academy
Award® winners Martin Landau (Ed Wood, Strange Shadows in an Empty Room), Jose
Ferrer (The Swarm, Dracula’s Dog, Blood Tide, Cyrano de Bergerac) and Dorothy
Malone (Written on the Wind, Basic Instinct) co-star with comedian Kinky
Friedman (Record City), Murray Langston (The Unknown Comic), Johnny Dark
(Repossessed), Kent Perkins (Night Patrol), and 70s sex symbol Ruth Buzzi
(Freaky Friday)! Written and Directed by Jackie Kong (Blood Diner, Night
Patrol). Now see this monster classic from an HD master!
___________________________________
Body Slam [Blu-ray]
(Hal Needham, 1986) Kino
US:
https://amzn.to/2PWWObW
CAN: https://amzn.to/3vnlAkC
COMMENTS: From legendary stuntman-turned-director Hal Needham (Smokey and the
Bandit, Hooper, The Cannonball Run) comes Body Slam, the craziest, funniest,
rocking-est wrestling movie of all time! M. Harry Smilac (Dirk Benedict, TV’s
The A-Team) is a talent agent who’d sell his mother for a dollar... fifty cents
after negotiations. But Harry finally hits the big time with a rhythm-and-bruise
road show that combines rock music and professional wrestling. Tanya Roberts
(TV’s Charlie’s Angels) co-stars with a bevy of real-life wrestling greats
including Roddy Piper (They Live), Sam “The Tonga Kid” Fatu (Highlander) and
Captain Lou Albano (Wise Guys) in this raucous action-comedy from the king of
death-defying Hollywood mayhem! The stellar cast also includes Barry Gordon (A
Thousand Clowns), Charles Nelson Reilly (TV’s The Ghost & Mrs. Muir), Billy
Barty (Foul Play), John Fujioka (American Ninja) and John Astin (TV’s The Addams
Family).
___________________________________
**Flowers Of Shanghai**
[Blu-ray] (Hou Hsiao-Hsien , 1998) Criterion UK
UK:
https://amzn.to/2R6Ue4g
Already available in Region 'A'
US:
https://amzn.to/2LTr9H2
CAN: https://amzn.to/3vU9kZB
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/hou-hsiao-hsiens-51090085
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_138/flowers_of_shanghai_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Hou Hsiao-Hsien's Flowers of Shanghai can be challenging to many
cinephiles. It's deliberately paced and formalized cinema that will not appeal
to everyone. It improves demonstratively upon repeat viewings. It's a beautiful
film, shot in a sly, meaningful, manner, that opines the opium-induced catatonic
manner in which its characters are expressed - it challenges meaningfulness
exposing decadence. lethargy, female abuse, love, desire, infatuation and
less-fettered power all in a devout representation of its era and locale. The
Criterion Blu-ray is such a huge step beyond the DVDs for an important, unique
film experience with impressive extras. It has our strongest recommendation!
___________________________________
**Gattaca [4K UHD Blu-ray]**
(Andrew Niccol, 1997) Sony
US: https://amzn.to/3giZcVW
US Steelbook:
https://amzn.to/3vLInYN
CAN: https://amzn.to/3cVV62z
UK: https://amzn.to/3r8Otz3
BONUS (Blu-ray) CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/andrew-niccols-49059059
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_136/gattaca_4K_UHD.htm
COMMENTS: I used to rank Andrew Niccol's Gattaca as a guilty pleasure but I have
come to the conclusion that I don't have anything to be guilty about. This is an
intelligent, exceptionally well-realized debut feature from a talented
director/writer. The precise 'look' of the film carries so much to the sterile
atmosphere and intentionally stilted performances. Beside Ethan Hawke and Uma
Thurman are a 'who's who' of support with Gore Vidal, Elias Koteas, Maya
Rudolph, Blair Underwood, Ernest Borgnine, Tony Shalhoub, and Alan Arkin.
Built-in to Gattaca is a less focused murder mystery that adds yet another
layer. I sometimes sell discs to survive but this 4K UHD is a keeper. I have
watched it four times this past weekend. The film and greatly improved a/v of
the 4K UHD get our highest recommendation!
___________________________________
The Great War of Archimedes
[Blu-ray] (Takashi Yamazaki, 2019) Well Go Usa
US:
https://amzn.to/347J5TS
CAN: https://amzn.to/3cFmF0J
COMMENTS: Pre-WWII, the Japanese Navy commissioned the creation of impressive "supership"
Yamato, strongly opposed by a top official insisting on more strategic and
battle-ready warships. After being ignored without cause, Admiral Yamamoto
recruits a math genius to help uncover what he soon suspects is a massive
conspiracy.
___________________________________
**Guns for San Sebastian**
[Blu-ray] (Henri Verneuil, 1968) Warner Archive
US:
https://amzn.to/34bpkdK
CAN: https://amzn.to/3izF5nv
COMMENTS: Anthony Quinn and Charles Bronson star in an action-packed Western
that explodes with passion, excitement and fiery intensity. Leon Alastray
(Quinn), a rebel on the run from the Mexican Army, escapes to the remote village
of San Sebastian, where the locals believe he’s a holy man. But when Leon
discovers that the area has been devastated by savage Yaqui attacks, he knows he
cannot hide the warrior within himself. Revealing his true identity, he leads
villagers against the deadly threat, while at the same time battling another
enemy: Teclo (Bronson), an antagonist with a shocking secret of his own. As the
tension mounts, the people of San Sebastian prepare for an explosive fight to
regain their courage...and reclaim their town.
___________________________________
**The Hands of Orlac**
[Blu-ray] (Robert Wiene, 1924) RB UK Masters of Cinema
UK:
https://amzn.to/3fHfBm1
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/robert-wienes-of-52017936
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_139/the_hands_of_orlac_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Robert Wiene's The Hands of Orlac is very enjoyable as a silent era
crime-horror-sci/fi-mystery in the vein of Fritz Lang. Many will enjoy and
appreciate the expressionist touches and precisely realized film. It is
hauntingly moody and is pioneering of one of the frequently -repeated tropes
involving switched body parts controlling the mind; include the iconic
Frankenstein and Georges Franju’s horror classic Les Yeux sans Visage (Eyes
Without a Face, 1959) plus many more. I was extremely pleased to see this reach
Masters of Cinema Blu-ray. The Hands of Orlac is very creepy and best seen in
this 1080P restoration. The detailed commentary, video essay, and booklet make
this a strong recommendation!
___________________________________
**In the Line of Fire**
[4K UHD Blu-ray] (Wolfgang Petersen, 1993) Sony
US:
https://amzn.to/2OXOOHR
CAN: https://amzn.to/2RQWtZZ
UK: https://amzn.to/3xkrS6Q
COMMENTS: Secret Service agent Frank Horrigan (Clint Eastwood) couldn't save
Kennedy, but he's determined not to let a clever assassin take out this
president.
___________________________________
Kindred [Blu-ray] (Joe
Marcantonio, 2020) Shout! Factory
US:
https://amzn.to/2PZ0GJN
CAN: https://amzn.to/35eIVu6
COMMENTS: A psychological thriller rippling with suspense, Kindred follows
vulnerable mother-to-be Charlotte (played by Tamara Lawrance) as she is taken in
by her recently deceased boyfriend's mother (Fiona Shaw) and her stepson (Jack
Lowden), who seem increasingly obsessed with her every move. Plagued by
mysterious hallucinations, Charlotte's suspicions grow about Margaret and
Thomas' intentions for her unborn child.
___________________________________
Godzilla vs. Kong [4K UHD]
(Adam Wingard, 2021) Warner UK
UK 4KUHD:
https://amzn.to/3uJC4DZ
UK Blu-ray: https://amzn.to/39VdIz5
UK 4K UHD Steelbook: https://amzn.to/3wLXVMQ
COMMENTS: Legends collide in “Godzilla vs. Kong” as these mythic adversaries
meet in a spectacular battle for the ages, with the fate of the world hanging in
the balance. Kong and his protectors undertake a perilous journey to find his
true home, and with them is Jia, a young orphaned girl with whom he has formed a
unique and powerful bond. But they unexpectedly find themselves in the path of
an enraged Godzilla, cutting a swath of destruction across the globe. The epic
clash between the two titans—instigated by unseen forces—is only the beginning
of the mystery that lies deep within the core of the Earth.
___________________________________
**Last Train from Gun Hill** [Blu-ray]
(John Sturges, 1959) Paramount
US:
https://amzn.to/2PmH9Db
CAN: https://amzn.to/3wkltrt
COMMENTS: Kirk Douglas and Anthony Quinn headline this suspenseful classic,
making its Blu-ray debut—remastered by Paramount Pictures from a 6K film
transfer of the original VistaVision negative. Directed by John Sturges
(GUNFIGHT AT THE O.K. CORAL), one of the greatest filmmakers of the Western
genre, the film follows U.S. Marshal Matt Morgan (Douglas) on the trail of his
wife’s killer. Adding a dark twist to the tale—the suspect's father is Morgan's
longtime friend, cattle baron Craig Beldon (Quinn). Morgan is determined to
capture the killer and take him away by the 9:00 train, against all odds.
___________________________________
Lust for Gold: A Race Against
Time [Blu-ray] (Robert May, 2021) Kino Lorber/SenArt
US:
https://amzn.to/34Zi70O
CAN:
https://amzn.to/3itrgqy
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_139/lust_for_gold_a_race_against_time_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: What I liked about Robert May's Lust for Gold: A Race Against Time was
the lack of gloss and hype. It was very honest with the rag-tag team exporting
various degrees of passion, arguments, skirting the law, members leaving and
others splitting up (if temporarily.) They come across as fairly compromised and
although mildly vérité - dragged the excitement down considerably - as does the
site being seemingly looted prior to their arrival. We meet other "Dutch
Hunters" and get a good background on the historical basis for the lost treasure
adventure seeking upwards of a billion dollars. It ends fairly passively but has
an interesting voice-over at the conclusion. Predictably there are no definitive
answers except a portrayal of this niche of men. The Kino Blu-ray does an expert
job of showing the HD presentation, but I expect this might appeal to a small,
prospector, audience of Gold Bugs.
___________________________________
**Merrily We Go To Hell**
[Blu-ray] (Dorothy Arzner, 1932) Criterion UK
UK:
https://amzn.to/32zTo23
Already available in Region 'A':
US:
https://amzn.to/3v6tejG
CAN: https://amzn.to/3gsUEfz
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/dorothy-arzners-50313503
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_137/merrily_we_go_to_hell_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: It's incredible how 'ahead of its time' Dorothy Arzner's Merrily We Go
to Hell was in frankly portraying marital trouble, alcoholism etc. in incredibly
honest terms. This is another reason we love Pre-Code. Sylvia Sidney is
wonderful as the loyal but conflicted new wife and the story is very touching
and brilliantly realized. After the extras on Criterion's Blu-ray here and on
Dance Girl, Dance I continue to be fascinated by Dorothy Arzner. What an
incredible and worthy film to bring to 1080P. More Pre-Code please, Criterion!
This has a very strong recommendation!
___________________________________
**One Potato, Two Potato**
[Blu-ray] (Larry Peerce, 1964) Kino/Scorpion
US:
https://amzn.to/3x5rM23
CAN: https://amzn.to/3zlkzwX
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/larry-peerces-52291817
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_139/one_potato_two_potato_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Larry Peerce's One Potato, Two Potato is an exceptional film. It deals
with themes of racial intolerance, inside a setting of a delightful romance and
child-rearing, parental tolerance and a biased legal system. It's beautifully
sweet and heart-wrenching. Amazing to see how the world has changed. I
thoroughly enjoyed seeing this via the Kino / Scorpion Blu-ray. Mims commentary
and the director interview add further value. Certainly recommended!
___________________________________
**Parks and Recreation: The
Complete Series** [Blu-ray] - Universal Pictures
US:
https://amzn.to/3fJhBt8
COMMENTS: Settle down in Pawnee, Indiana, with Amy Poehler in Parks and
Recreation: The Complete Series. Join small-town civil servant Leslie as she
strives to make City Hall a better place. By her side are her beloved
colleagues: Ron (Nick Offerman), April (Aubrey Plaza), Andy (Chris Pratt), Tom (Aziz
Ansari), Ann (Rashida Jones), Donna (Retta), Ben (Adam Scott), Chris (Rob Lowe)
and Jerry (Jim O'Heir) This 7 season set includes all 125 episodes of the smart,
irreverent, heartfelt series.
___________________________________
**The Railway Children**
[Blu-ray] (Lionel Jeffries, 1970) Kino
US:
https://amzn.to/2Tce4fg
CAN: https://amzn.to/3g93Tkk
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/lionel-jeffries-52306003
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_139/the_railway_children_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Lionel Jeffries' "The Railway Children" is a, delightful, grand family
film. It strikes all the right chords of childhood innocence, a sense of
adventure and familial love. It has some deep layers as well. Jenny Agutter (The
Survivor, I Start Counting, Walkabout, Logan’s Run) remains a favorite. The Kino
Blu-ray offers the film in 1080P with the edifying commentary. Strongly
recommended!
___________________________________
Sphinx [Blu-ray]
(Franklin J. Schaffner, 1981) Shout! Factory
US:
https://amzn.to/2QrqmyJ
CAN: https://amzn.to/3xfGgfO
COMMENTS: A determined young anthropologist (Down) has come across a clue
leading to a long-forgotten royal tomb. And pays no mind to the notion that
Egypt's last undiscovered treasure may carry a curse—and perhaps that there may
be some black marketeers eager to sustain the illusion of such a curse…in a
fashion as terrifying as any scary ancient legend.
___________________________________
**Streetwise / TINY: The Life of
Erin Blackwell** [Blu-ray] (Martin Bell, 2016) Criterion
US:
https://amzn.to/3585lxc
CAN: https://amzn.to/3guThLR
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/martin-bells-of-52378941
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_139/streetwise_tiny_life_erin_blackwell_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Criterion's new Blu-ray of Streetwise and Tiny: The Life of Erin
Blackwell really moved me, in a way that most documentaries never do. The only
comparisons that come to mind are both the films of Albert and David Maysles, as
well as the brilliant and immersive fly-on-the-wall documentaries of fellow
Canuck, Allan King. (A worthy side-note, if you have never seen an Allan King
film, Criterion released a definitive collection years back through their
Eclipse sub-label, which would be one of my dream releases on Blu-ray in the
future). These new, restored high-definition digital transfers of Streetwise and
Tiny: The Life of Erin Blackwell, were supervised by director Martin Bell. While
the absence of the late Mary Ellen Mark is felt throughout the must-watch bonus
features, the focus never waivers from the subjects on screen. Bell's
commentary, as well as the interviews with Bell and editor Nancy Baker, would be
quite enough bonus features to satiate the average consumer. And yet, the
inclusion of 3 more short films covering subjects from Streetwise, and one short
film from Mark and Bell on a completely different subject, really show the
amount of care that Criterion puts into their releases. While not available for
our Blu-ray review purposes, the inclusion of that 1983 Life Magazine article is
also very welcome. If you can handle the subject matter at hand (teen sex work,
drug addiction, violence and death) then I urge you to please watch this
phenomenal film. - Colin Zavitz
___________________________________
Take This Job and Shove It
[Blu-ray] (Gus Trikonis, 1981) Kino
US:
https://amzn.to/2PJ3hI7
CAN: https://amzn.to/3iBLKNM
COMMENTS: Robert Hays (Airplane!) and Barbara Hershey (Hannah and Her Sisters)
co-star in this keg of laughs that never runs dry! When corporate hotshot Frank
Macklin (Hays) is sent back to his hometown to upgrade the Pickett Brewery, he
just wants to get in, make the changes and get back out. But once Frank has had
a tall drink of refreshing down-home life, instituting cold-hearted productivity
increases at the plant becomes tougher. And when his bosses tell Frank his job
is to betray the workers, he’ll have to act fast to save the good times... and
the good brew! The excellent cast features David Keith (Heartbreak Hotel), Tim
Thomerson (Trancers), Martin Mull (Clue), Penelope Milford (Coming Home), Royal
Dano (The Outlaw Josey Wales), Eddie Albert (TV’s Green Acres), Art Carney (TV’s
The Honeymooners) and country music legends Charlie Rich, Johnny Paycheck, David
Allan Coe and more. Directed by cult filmmaker Gus Trikonis (The Swinging
Barmaids, Moonshine County Express, The Evil).
___________________________________
Uncle Vanya [Blu-ray]
(Ross MacGibbon, Ian Rickson, 2020) RB UK Dazzler Media
UK:
https://amzn.to/3noQqXN
COMMENTS: In the heat of summer, Sonya (Aimee Lou Wood) and her Uncle Vanya
(Toby Jones) while away their days on a crumbling estate deep in the
countryside, visited occasionally only by the local doctor Astrov (Richard
Armitage). However, when Sonya’s father Professor Serebryakov (Roger Allam)
suddenly returns with his restless, alluring, new wife Yelena (Rosalind Eleazar)
declaring his intention to sell the house, the polite facades crumble and long
repressed feelings start to emerge with devastating consequences.
___________________________________
**Waterloo** [Blu-ray]
(Sergey Bondarchuk, 1970) RB UK Mediumrare
UK:
https://amzn.to/3rxHbWJ
COMMENTS: Waterloo is the 1970 epic period war film directed by Sergei
Bondarchuk and produced by legendary producer Dino De Laurentis. It depicts the
story of the preliminary events and the Battle of Waterloo and is famous for its
lavish battle scenes. Starring Rod Steiger as Napoleon Bonaparte and Christopher
Plummer as the Duke of Wellington with a cameo by Orson Welles as Louis XVIII of
France, and Jack Hawkins all contribute fine portraits of great men against a
magnificent backdrop of battle and bloodshed.
___________________________________
Who Dares Wins
[Blu-ray] (Ian Sharp, 1982) RB UK Fabulous Films Limited
UK:
https://amzn.to/3fHotqP
COMMENTS: When an anti-nuclear group resorts to terror to secure their ends, it
takes the SAS to deal with them…as only the SAS can. Lewis Collins plays Peter
Skellen, an SAS Captain sent to join the terrorists as an undercover agent. Judy
Davis plays Frankie Leith, the ruthless leader of the gang, which attacks the
American Embassy Residence. Only the SAS can save the VIP hostages.. because
only they who dare.
___________________________________
**Ziegfeld Follies**
[Blu-ray] (Vincente Minnelli etc.,1945) Warner Archive
US:
https://amzn.to/3fBzR7r
CAN: https://amzn.to/35hPn3Q
COMMENTS: Heaven’s harps and wings are nice, but what showman extraordinaire
Florenz Ziegfeld Jr. wants most now that he’s no longer on Earth is to put on
another extravaganza. It would have the brightest stars and creative talents.
The most in glamour, gams and optimism. In short, it would be like Ziegfeld
Follies. With a who’s who of credited and uncredited Hollywood talents, this
all-star revue is heaven to fans of musicals. Fred Astaire dazzles once,
twice…four numbers in all. Red Skelton reprises his funny Guzzler’s Gin skit.
Esther Williams swims, Lena Horne sings, and Judy Garland spoofs snobbery.
There’s Verdi opera and Fanny Brice vaudeville. Patter and pantomime. And The
Babbitt and the Bromide, with Gene Kelly joining Astaire in their first-ever
screen pairing. What a show! The man called Flo must be proud.
_______________________________
LATEST CALENDAR UPDATES:
August 2nd, 2021
Arise, My Love
(Mitchell Leisen, 1940) Kino
https://amzn.to/35gRLYm
**Coogan's Bluff** (Don
Siegel, 1968) Kino
https://amzn.to/2ToC0fk
**Four Frightened People**
(Cecil B. DeMille, 1934) Kino
https://amzn.to/3woEv00
**No Time for Love**
(Mitchell Leisen, 1943) Kino
https://amzn.to/3wjiCz2
**Union Pacific**
(Cecil B. DeMille, 1939) Kino
https://amzn.to/3vj1jg3
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film6/blu-ray_reviews_77/union_pacific_blu-ray.htm
**The Valdez Horses**
(John Sturges, 1973) Kino
https://amzn.to/2RLsuT2
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_133/the_valdez_horses_blu-ray.htm
August 9th, 2021
**Back Street** (David
Miller, 1961) Kino
https://amzn.to/3vcHBmc
**Desire** (Frank
Borzage, 1936) Kino
https://amzn.to/3zlu9Qi
**Lilies of the Field**
(Ralph Nelson, 1963) Kino
https://amzn.to/3zlC6Vr
**Nashville** (Robert
Altman, 1975) Paramount
https://amzn.to/2TpIIBG
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film2/DVDReviews33/nashville.htm
**O.S.S.** (Irving
Pichel, 1946) Kino
https://amzn.to/35bIhO6
**Peter Ibbetson**
(Henry Hathaway, 1935) Kino
https://amzn.to/3ggiTgw
**A Place in the Sun**
(George Stevens, 1951) Paramount
https://amzn.to/35epfGR
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_128/a_place_in_the_sun_blu-ray.htm
August 16th, 2021
**The Fortune Cookie**
(Billy Wilder, 1966) Kino
https://amzn.to/2ROtFBj
Labyrinth 4K UHD (Jim
Henson, 1986) Sony
https://amzn.to/35fZQNc
Percy (Ralph Thomas,
1971) Kino
https://amzn.to/35ezATg
August 23rd, 2021
**Blind Beast** (Yasuzô
Masumura, 1969) Arrow US
https://amzn.to/2Tqpf45
Eloy De La Iglesia's Quinqui
Collection (Nanajeros, El Pico, El Pico 2) Severin Films
https://amzn.to/3vhomIh
No One Heard the Scream
(Eloy de la Iglesia, 1973) Severin Films
https://amzn.to/3pUCgPy
What's So Bad About Feeling Good (George
Seaton, 1968) Kino
https://amzn.to/3xgY7D3
August 30th, 2021
**The Comedy of Terrors**
(Jacques Tourneur, 1963) Kino
https://amzn.to/3gedAya
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film5/blu-ray_reviews_65/the_comedy_of_terrors_blu-ray.htm
The Devil's 8 (Burt
Topper, 1969) Kino
https://amzn.to/3cVaw8f
**Dune 4K UHD** (David
Lynch, 1984) Arrow US
https://amzn.to/3ggcC4h
**The Last Man on Earth**
(Ubaldo Ragona, 1964) Kino
https://amzn.to/3vjsQxO
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film4/blu-ray_reviews_63/the_last_man_on_earth_blu-ray.htm
**The Raven** (Roger
Corman, 1963) Kino
https://amzn.to/3pNrNoR
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film5/blu-ray_reviews_64/vincent_price_six_gothic_tales_blu-ray.htm
________________________________________________
Photo Archives" for Patrons:
Gloria Grahame:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/gloria_grahame_photo_archive.htm
________________
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
________________
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:
**Martin Bell's "Streetwise" /
"Tiny: The Life of Erin Blackwell"** Blu-ray @Criterion
US:
https://amzn.to/3585lxc
CAN: https://amzn.to/3guThLR
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/martin-bells-of-52378941
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_139/streetwise_tiny_life_erin_blackwell_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Criterion's new Blu-ray of Streetwise and Tiny: The Life of Erin
Blackwell really moved me, in a way that most documentaries never do. The only
comparisons that come to mind are both the films of Albert and David Maysles, as
well as the brilliant and immersive fly-on-the-wall documentaries of fellow
Canuck, Allan King. (A worthy side-note, if you have never seen an Allan King
film, Criterion released a definitive collection years back through their
Eclipse sub-label, which would be one of my dream releases on Blu-ray in the
future). These new, restored high-definition digital transfers of Streetwise and
Tiny: The Life of Erin Blackwell, were supervised by director Martin Bell. While
the absence of the late Mary Ellen Mark is felt throughout the must-watch bonus
features, the focus never waivers from the subjects on screen. Bell's
commentary, as well as the interviews with Bell and editor Nancy Baker, would be
quite enough bonus features to satiate the average consumer. And yet, the
inclusion of 3 more short films covering subjects from Streetwise, and one short
film from Mark and Bell on a completely different subject, really show the
amount of care that Criterion puts into their releases. While not available for
our Blu-ray review purposes, the inclusion of that 1983 Life Magazine article is
also very welcome. If you can handle the subject matter at hand (teen sex work,
drug addiction, violence and death) then I urge you to please watch this
phenomenal film. - Colin Zavitz
__________________________
**Robert Florey's "The Face
Behind the Mask"** Blu-ray - Peter Lorre @imprint_films
US:
https://amzn.to/2Tnj2pC
UK: https://amzn.to/35bzD22
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/robert-floreys-52353643
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_139/the_face_behind_the_mask_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Peter Lorre's The Face Behind the Mask is, in many ways, a perfect
genre-mix film. Perhaps a personal preference - but I love these short,
economical, vintage efforts especially involving a corrupted protagonist,
obvious but effective melodrama and an especially visually-censored horror
element... that has a magnificent Peter Lorre and blind-girl next-door Evelyn
Keyes! Vintage film fans should be chomping-at-the-bit over this essential,
re-watchable Imprint Blu-ray with it valued new commentary and two video extras.
Abso-posa-lutely recommended!
__________________________
**Karel Reisz's "The Gambler"**
Blu-ray - James Caan @imprint_films
US:
https://amzn.to/3cxFeDW
UK: https://amzn.to/3guG7P4
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/karel-reiszs-blu-52347325
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_139/the_gambler_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: The Gambler has been a favorite film for decades - and I have seen it
multiple times. Karel Reisz (Saturday Night and Sunday Morning, The French
Lieutenant's Woman, Isadora etc.) has crafted a pure example of the flourishing
new expression of Hollywood cinema of the 70s. It's one of James Cann's best
roles. It sports and exceptional supporting cast of Paul Sorvino, Lauren Hutton,
Burt Young, Vic Tayback, M. Emmet Walsh, James Woods, Stuart Margolin etc. The
Gambler leaves its audience so much to digest. I am extremely pleased that
someone put it out on Blu-ray and the Imprint package shines with the erudite
commentary, and multitude of other supplements. They keep adding essential
films, previously unreleased on Blu-ray, to their growing 1080P catalogue. This
gets our highest recommendation!
__________________________
**Herbert L. Strock's "How to
Make a Monster"** Blu-ray - Robert H. Harris @ShoutFactory
US:
https://amzn.to/3zcIEpn
CAN: https://amzn.to/2SlqP73
UK: https://amzn.to/3cuMG2y
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/herbert-l-how-to-52308643
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_139/how_to_make_a_monster_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: How to Make a Monster fits appropriately in our 1950s + 60s
science-fiction / fantasy / creature-feature Blu-ray entries. In many ways, it
is quintessential AIP (American International Pictures) - simplistic, dramatic
horror-angle, short (possibility being made as part of a double feature),
eye-catching posters and appealing to a young audience less keen on the growing
popularity of television. It handles the filmmaking expression well and the
relatively goofy indoctrination of murderers makes it fun and a bit scary. I
loved it - especially with the Shout! Factory Blu-ray extras including the two
wonderful commentaries, documentary short and Q+A. Fans know who they are and,
if they don't have this chestnut are encouraged to pick this up. Plenty of value
here!
__________________________
**Lionel Jeffries' "The Railway
Children"** Blu-ray - Jenny Agutter @KinoLorber
US:
https://amzn.to/2Tce4fg
CAN: https://amzn.to/3g93Tkk
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/lionel-jeffries-52306003
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_139/the_railway_children_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Lionel Jeffries' "The Railway Children" is a, delightful, grand family
film. It strikes all the right chords of childhood innocence, a sense of
adventure and familial love. It has some deep layers as well. Jenny Agutter (The
Survivor, I Start Counting, Walkabout, Logan’s Run) remains a favorite. The Kino
Blu-ray offers the film in 1080P with the edifying commentary. Strongly
recommended!
__________________________
**Wesley Ruggles' "I'm No
Angel"** Blu-ray - Mae West @KinoLorber
US:
https://amzn.to/35513qh
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/wesley-ruggles-52298309
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_139/im_no_angel_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Wesley Ruggles' I'm No Angel has some of Mae West most iconic,
self-written, lines:
"Well... When I'm good, I'm very
good. But, when I'm bad... I'm better."
"Beulah, peel me a grape."
"Somewhere there's a guy with a
million waitin' for a dame like me."
"Come up and see me sometime!".
Great to see a young Cary Grant and
their interaction onscreen. It will be wonderful to fully revisit Mae West's
films in 1080P with new commentaries. You can watch this vintage gems at any
time taking a deep dive intro the Pre-Code world of bold sexual innuendo. The
Kino Blu-ray is a definite keeper and we can strongly recommend!
__________________________
**Larry Peerce's "One Potato,
Two Potato"** Blu-ray - Barbara Barrie @kinolorber @ScorpionDVD
US:
https://amzn.to/3x5rM23
CAN: https://amzn.to/3zlkzwX
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/larry-peerces-52291817
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_139/one_potato_two_potato_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Larry Peerce's One Potato, Two Potato is an exceptional film. It deals
with themes of racial intolerance, inside a setting of a delightful romance and
child-rearing, parental tolerance and a biased legal system. It's beautifully
sweet and heart-wrenching. Amazing to see how the world has changed. I
thoroughly enjoyed seeing this via the Kino / Scorpion Blu-ray. Mims commentary
and the director interview add further value. Certainly recommended!
__________________________
Lust for Gold: A Race Against
Time Blu-ray - William Blackwell @KinoLorber
US:
https://amzn.to/34Zi70O
CAN: https://amzn.to/3itrgqy
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_139/lust_for_gold_a_race_against_time_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: What I liked about Robert May's Lust for Gold: A Race Against Time was
the lack of gloss and hype. It was very honest with the rag-tag team exporting
various degrees of passion, arguments, skirting the law, members leaving and
others splitting up (if temporarily.) They come across as fairly compromised and
although mildly vérité - dragged the excitement down considerably - as does the
site being seemingly looted prior to their arrival. We meet other "Dutch
Hunters" and get a good background on the historical basis for the lost treasure
adventure seeking upwards of a billion dollars. It ends fairly passively but has
an interesting voice-over at the conclusion. Predictably there are no definitive
answers except a portrayal of this niche of men. The Kino Blu-ray does an expert
job of showing the HD presentation, but I expect this might appeal to a small,
prospector, audience of Gold Bugs.
__________________________
**Dee Rees' "Pariah"**
Blu-ray - Adepero Oduye @Criterion
US: https://amzn.to/3tngmos
CAN:
https://amzn.to/3g2Q2w3
UK: https://amzn.to/3yvZ1No
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/dee-rees-pariah-52260587
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_139/pariah_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Fans should be sure to pick up Criterion's fantastic 2K digital
Blu-ray transfer of Dee Rees' "Pariah". From the stellar 1080P image to the
bonus features with cast, crew and critics, this is a definitive release of
"Pariah". Adepero Oduye's restrained performance is very moving, and Kim Wayans
and Charles Parnell's poor parenting roles are more three-dimensional than one
might expect. This Criterion Blu-ray is absolutely recommended. - Colin Zavitz
_________________________
http://www.dvdbeaver.com