DVDBeaver Newsletter for the Week of April 26th, 2021
http://www.dvdbeaver.com
THIS WEEK RELEASES;
like all month-ending weeks this one is stacked including premium Criterion,
Indicator, Arrow, Warner Archives, Vinegar Syndrome etc. of releases from
Douglas Sirk to William Castle, Kinji Fukasaku (in 4K) to Ken Loach, Gaspar Noé
to Ronald Neame, Donnie Darko in 4K to Olivier Assayas, Sergio Leone in 4K to Ib
Melchior, Jean-Luc Godard to British Noir. What a time to be a cinephile with a
home theatre!
THIS WEEK'S REVIEWS:
Brilliant Pre-Code on Blu-ray by Criterion, George Romero in 4K, Mr. Spicoli
Criterion-ized, polarizing modern French Cinema, THE most iconic Spaghetti
Western in 4K, 50's Corman-esque monsters, fun Euro sci-fi horror, Mastorakis
debut exploitation sleaze, Rock and Sirk can never go wrong together...
Enjoy,
Gary
RELEASES the WEEK of April 26th,
2021 (Recommended titles have "**")
13 Ghosts [Blu-ray]
(William Castle, 1960) Indicator UK
UK:
https://amzn.to/3oc5Mhe
INDICATOR:
https://www.powerhousefilms.co.uk/products/13-ghosts-bd?utm_source=DVDBEAVER&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=13-GHOSTS-BD
OUR ALT- REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film3/blu-ray_reviews53/13_ghosts_13_frightened_girls_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: When the Zorba family inherit
a house from their late uncle, the occultist Plato Zorba, they didn’t expect it
come with a host of ghostly houseguests, including a headless lion tamer (and
lion!), an aflame skeleton, a murderous chef and his victims, and an
executioner. Despite this collection of sprites, 13 Ghosts is one of the lighter
efforts of shockmeister William Castle – but just as inventive as his best
works, and is presented here in both its black-and-white and ‘Illusion-O’
versions.
_______________________________
**Another Thin Man**
[Blu-ray] (W.S. Van Dyke, 1939) Warner Archive
US:
https://amzn.to/3caXLpO
CAN:
https://amzn.to/3vj7UHP
COMMENTS: Dum-Dum, Wacky, Creeps,
Fingers: Theyre just a few of the hoodlums in the world of amateur sleuths and
professional bon vivants Nick and Nora Charles. And now theres a new hood:
parenthood. A birthday make that boithday party that some of da boys hold for
infant Nick Jr. is part of the fun in this third film in the witty series. The
case begins when the Charles family arrives for a weekend with a Long Island
industrialist who fears someone wants to kill him. Sure enough, his fears come
true. Nick (William Powell) is among the suspects. Asta scrams with what may be
the murder weapon. And Nora (Myrna Loy) has her own ideas about the case and
sneaks off to a nightclub to ferret out a clue. Madam, how long have you been
leading this double life? Nick asks. Just since weve been married, she replies.
_______________________________
Battle Hymn [Blu-ray]
(Douglas Sirk, 1957) Kino
US:
https://amzn.to/3ebZR8R
CAN:
https://amzn.to/3dvalRF
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_137/battle_hymn_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Douglas Sirk's Battle Hymn is
not to be considered with his famous melodramas of the same era, but is
none-the-less a decent film, well played by Rock and support from Martha Hyer,
Dan Duryea, Don DeFore, Anna Kashfi, Jock Mahoney, Alan Hale Jr. etc. It's a
good story as well with themes of morality conflicting with war, belief in the
human spirit and is uplifting. It's a film I had never seen and was pleased to
see it via the Kino Blu-ray with the Pinkerton commentary.
_______________________________
**Battle Royale**
[Blu-ray] (Kinji Fukasaku, 2000) Arrow
UK Blu-ray:
https://amzn.to/3dRFcYS
UK 4K UHD:
https://amzn.to/3cpfUAL
COMMENTS: The kids of Third Year Class-B
Shiroiwa Junior High School are back, in a brand new UHD restoration of the
classic cult shocker adapted from the controversial novel by Koushun Takami.
Presenting an alternate dystopian vision of turn-of-the-millennium Japan, Battle
Royale follows the 42 junior high school students selected to take part in the
governments annual Battle Royale programme, established as an extreme method of
addressing concerns about juvenile delinquency. Dispatched to a remote island,
they are each given individual weapons (ranging from Uzis and machetes to pan
lids and binoculars), food and water, and the order to go out and kill one
other. Every player is fitted with an explosive collar around their neck,
imposing a strict three-day time limit on the deadly games in which there can
only be one survivor. Overseeing the carnage is Beat Takeshi Kitano (Sonatine,
Hana-bi, Zatoichi) as the teacher pushed to the edge by his unruly charges.
Playing like a turbo-charged hybrid of Lord of the Flies and The Most Dangerous
Game, the final completed work by veteran yakuza film director Kinji Fukasaku...
_______________________________
Blithe Spirit [Blu-ray]
(Edward Hall, 2020) Universal UK
UK:
https://amzn.to/3mgv4v6
COMMENTS: Best-selling crime novelist
Charles (Dan Stevens) is struggling with catastrophic writer’s block and a
stressful deadline for his first screenplay. His picture perfect second wife
Ruth (Isla Fisher) is doing her best to keep him focussed in the hope of
fulfilling her dream of heading to Hollywood. Charles’ desperate search for
inspiration leads him to invite Madame Arcati (Judi Dench), a medium recently
exposed as a fraud, to perform a séance in their home. They all get more than
they bargained for when Arcati accidentally summons the spirit of his deceased
first wife: the fiery and jealous Elvira (Leslie Mann) who embarks on a mission
to kill Charles so she can spend eternity with him which leads to an
increasingly comical and deadly love triangle.
_______________________________
Born of Fire [Blu-ray]
(Jamil Dehlavi, 1987) Indicator UK
UK:
https://amzn.to/39XENRi
INDICATOR:
https://www.powerhousefilms.co.uk/products/born-of-fire-bd?utm_source=DVDBEAVER&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=BORN-OF-FIRE-BD
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film2/DVDReviews48/born_of_fire_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Indicator have once again
given us a stellar Blu-ray. The film is not for everyone, but creates a certain
mood throughout the picture, a completely unique mood. The Blu-ray extras are
quite illuminating and the audio/video transfer is consistent with Indicator's
excellent output. I would recommend this film to fans of offbeat cinema.
_______________________________
**Carla's Song**
[Blu-ray] (Ken Loach, 1996) Indicator UK
UK:
https://amzn.to/31RieKo
INDICATOR:
https://www.powerhousefilms.co.uk/collections/frontpage/products/carlas-song-le?utm_source=DVDBEAVER&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=CARLAS-SONG-LE
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_136/carlas_song_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: I echo some of the critical
comments of Ken Loach's Carla's Song enjoying the first half - and it's
occasional humor and budding romance - more than the politically-charged second
half with its resemblances to typically obvious liberal Hollywood. Loach is an
impressive filmmaker and I think he realizes the story to its highest potential.
Oyanka Cabezas, Carlyle and Scott Glenn are strong and carry the film in its
more plodding and scattered moments. The commentary helped and its ambition is,
certainly, a positive attribute. The high-end a/v and extras-stacked, limited
edition (3,000 copies), Indicator Blu-ray make this package very enticing for
Loach fans.
_______________________________
**The Chalk Garden**
[Blu-ray] (Ronald Neame, 1964) Indicator UK
UK:
https://amzn.to/2Nysdk0
INDICATOR:
https://www.powerhousefilms.co.uk/collections/frontpage/products/the-chalk-garden-le?utm_source=DVDBEAVER&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=THE-CHALK-GARDEN-LE
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_129/the_chalk_garden_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Ronald Neame's The Chalk
Garden has some unusual qualities - which is fitting for the less-conventional
story (original play as a comedy?) with Hayley Mills as the undisciplined
adolescent granddaughter who is confused, testing her limits as well as
challenging the adults caring for her. The sub-story of Deborah Kerr as the
mysteriously ambiguous murdering-suspect Miss Madrigal adds keen curiosity. The
Chalk Garden is wonderfully realized by Neame. A beautiful film that I was
pleased to revisit on this stacked Indicator Blu-ray. The new commentary and
interviews, booklet etc. make this the definitive edition of the film on
Blu-ray. Strongly recommended!
_______________________________
**The Darjeeling Limited**
[Blu-ray] (Wes Anderson, 2007) RB UK Criterion
UK:
https://amzn.to/2N6Sq9g
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film2/DVDReviews35/darjeeling_limited.htm
COMMENTS: In The Darjeeling Limited,
from director Wes Anderson (Rushmore, Fantastic Mr. Fox), three estranged
American brothers reunite for a meticulously planned, soul-searching train
voyage across India, one year after the death of their father. For reasons
involving over-the-counter painkillers, Indian cough syrup, and pepper spray,
the brothers eventually find themselves stranded alone in the middle of the
desert-where a new, unplanned chapter of their journey begins.
_______________________________
Death Promise [Blu-ray]
(Robert Warmflash, 1977) Vinegar Syndrome
US:
https://amzn.to/3r0NbWV
COMMENTS: The residents of a dilapidated
New York tenement building are being harassed and threatened by Iguana Realty,
the dummy corporation which owns the land, in an effort to force them out of
their homes. But when karate master Charley's father is murdered by a group of
thugs hired by the landlords, he decides to take matters into his own hands.
Enlisting the help of his best friend, fellow fighter Speedy, and driven by a
desire for vengeance, they soon develop a plan to murder each board member of
Iguana Realty. However, what they don't realize is that their final target is
someone much closer to home...
_______________________________
The Debut [Blu-ray] (Nouchka
van Brakel, 1977) Cult Epics
US:
https://amzn.to/3rllh8S
CAN:
https://amzn.to/3essYoB
COMMENTS: The forbidden-love story The
Debut (1977( was the first full-length feature from pioneering filmmaker Nouchka
van Brakel. Following the theme of Stanley Kubrick's Lolita (1962( and Michael
Powell's Age of Consent (1969), only this time told from a female perspective,
van Brakel's The Debut (1977( tells the delicate story of the impossible love
between a teenage girl and a middle-aged married man. Based on the controversial
novel by Hester Albach, The Debut is a subversive comedy-drama and the first
commercially successful Dutch theatrical film directed by a woman.
_______________________________
**Donnie Darko [4K UHD]**
(Richard Kelly, 2001) Arrow
US:
https://amzn.to/3aFGqUT
UK:
https://amzn.to/3xnXwk4
CAN:
https://amzn.to/3gzaQfn
COMMENTS: Fifteen years before Stranger
Things combined science fiction, Spielbergian touches and 80s nostalgia to much
acclaim, Richard Kelly set the template and the high-water mark with his debut
feature, Donnie Darko. Initially beset with distribution problems, it would
slowly find its audience and emerge as arguably the first cult classic of the
new millennium. Donnie is a troubled high school student: in therapy, prone to
sleepwalking and in possession of an imaginary friend, a six-foot rabbit named
Frank, who tells him the world is going to end in 28 days, 06 hours, 42 minutes
and 12 seconds. During that time he will navigate teenage life, narrowly avoid
death in the form of a falling jet engine, follow Franks maladjusted
instructions and try to maintain the space-time continuum.
_______________________________
**Each Dawn I Die**
[Blu-ray] (William Keighley, 1939) Warner Archive
US:
https://amzn.to/3tYYAIp
CAN:
https://amzn.to/3vfE2fq
COMMENTS: Framed for manslaughter after
he breaks a story about city corruption, reporter Frank Ross is sure hell prove
his innocence and walk out of prison a free man. But thats not how the system
works at Rocky Point Penitentiary. There, cellblock guards are vicious, the
jute-mill labor is endless, and the powers Ross fought on the outside conspire
to keep him in. Franks hope is turned to hopelessness. And hes starting to
crack. Two of the screens famed tough guys star in this prison movie that casts
a reform-minded eye on the brutalizing effects of life in the slammer. James
Cagney hits a white-hot peak as [Ross,] the embittered, stir-crazy fall guy...
_______________________________
The Eight Hundred
[Blu-ray] (Hu Guan, 2020) RB UK Cine Asia
UK:
https://amzn.to/2ZO0vmj
COMMENTS: Shanghai 1937: it’s been three
months since Japan launched the invasion of Chine, and Japanese forces have been
ordered to take control of a large central warehouse. Inside, a group of Chinese
soldiers hold their ground, defending the city at any cost. Four hundred
soldiers remail, yet they allow invaders to believe there are eight hundred,
confusing the enemy in an exhausting, bloody fight lasting four days and four
nights.
_______________________________
Elvira: Mistress of the Dark
Steelbook [Blu-ray] (James Signorelli, 1988) Arrow US
UK:
https://amzn.to/3niicFe
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_128/elvira_mistress_of_the_dark_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Cassandra Peterson is amazing
- she carved out such a unique and lovable niche. It's one that is universally
appreciated by film fans. Elvira: Mistress of the Dark should have had a sequel
or entire movie series - it has held up so well. Elvira is absurdly sexy, cute
and fun - built around an homage is horror cinema - both cheesy and scary. I
really know few people who didn't enjoy the heck out of this - I've rewatched it
may times myself. Great to have it on the vastly superior Blu-ray a/v and the
multitude of extras including the three commentaries and feature-length 'making
of'. Absolutely recommended!
_______________________________
Fatherland [Blu-ray]
(Ken Loach, 1986) Indicator UK
UK:
https://amzn.to/3g5uijN
INDICATOR:
https://www.powerhousefilms.co.uk/collections/frontpage/products/fatherland-le?utm_source=DVDBEAVER&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=FATHERLAND-LE
US:
https://amzn.to/3dJNsc2
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_137/fatherland_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: I wasn't crazy about Loach's
Fatherland although I was keen on the story even being a bit flummoxed by the
second half. Perhaps I am at odds with the concept of a 'protest singer'
although much music / poetry does enlighten. A commentary may have helped my
appreciation. Part of Fatherland's value seems to be its lack of exposure - it
was a film I had never seen and being Ken Loach, alone, may be an attractive
enticement for some. The Indicator Blu-ray seems a well done package of an odd,
under-discussed film. Intrepid, adventurous cinephiles may be in their element.
_______________________________
The Garden of Torment
[Blu-ray] (Christian Gion, 1976) Nucleus Films US
US:
https://amzn.to/3aAWAiz
COMMENTS: In the 1930's a young doctor
is forced to flee from Paris because he is involved in a drug scandal. On his
passage to China he meets a beautiful, eccentric woman. After their arrival in
China, she introduces him into a circle of decadent Europeans which created a
torture garden for their amusement. While the bored imperial upper class is
torturing the locals the revolution is rising.
_______________________________
**The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
[4K UHD]** (Sergio Leone, 1966) Kino
US:
https://amzn.to/2N2ezW8
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_137/the_good_the_bad_and_the_ugly_4K_UHD.htm
COMMENTS: Kino Lorber have released a
new 2-disc set of "The Good, The Bad and the Ugly". The first disc features the
original US Theatrical Cut of the film on a 4K UHD with the film taking up over
80 GB of the 100GB capacity of the storage. It does NOT have any HDR applied.
The lack of HDR10, HDR10+, or Dolby
Vision makes this a fascinating package. The image looks stellar - significantly
better than Kino's own Blu-ray from 2017 (compared by DVDBeaver) - that was,
heavily, criticized for its heavy golden palette. The bitrate is much higher
than any digital release of the film, and the improved detail (thanks to more
information in the UHD's 3840/2160 pixels) tightens the visuals, especially when
viewing the film on a large screen or projector. It is impressive. A heftier
contrast helps to show a wider range, and depth, of colors. The 4K UHD and
Blu-ray (both with new 2021 transfers) picture now has a much more consistent
tone, without the previous 2017 release's emphasis on the cold/blue tint, also
without being bathed in a yellow/golden haze as it was in a previous version. -
Colin Zavitz
________________________________
Homicidal [Blu-ray]
(William Castle, 1961) Indicator UK
UK:
https://amzn.to/39bgT5K
INDICATOR:
https://www.powerhousefilms.co.uk/products/homicidal-bd?utm_source=DVDBEAVER&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=HOMICIDAL-BD
OUR ALT-REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film3/blu-ray_reviews52/homicidal_sardonicus_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Small-town secrets, a family
inheritance, a spate of murders, and a remarkable twist make up
producer-director William Castle’s audacious spin on Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho.
And if it all gets to be too much for you, gentle viewer, please take advantage
of the ‘Fright Break’ to avoid being terrified.
_______________________________
**Irma Vep** [Blu-ray]
(Olivier Assayas, 1996) Criterion
US:
https://amzn.to/38Rjotz
CAN:
https://amzn.to/39cZ8m5
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film/DVDReview/irma_vep_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Olivier Assayas' "Irma Vep" is
magical. It's a constant flirt with art, the iconic Louis Feuillade serial,
French New Wave homage and the scattered genius of film-within-film development.
The entire idea of a movie with Maggie Cheung in a full-body black latex catsuit
is appealing by itself and the unique, poetic ending is unrivaled. The Criterion
double Blu-ray package gets the nod for the extensive extras but both have
value. I consider this unusual and joyful film to be a must-own. Don't hesitate.
_______________________________
**Irreversible**
[Blu-ray] (Gaspar Noé, 2002) RB UK Indicator
UK:
https://amzn.to/3stWHSV
INDICATOR:
https://www.powerhousefilms.co.uk/collections/frontpage/products/irreversible-le?utm_source=DVDBEAVER&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=IRREVERSIBLE-LE
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film/DVDReview/irreversible.htm
COMMENTS: Speechless. This is one of the
best Blu-ray packages of the year. I was thankful to revisit this polarizing
film-experience after requiring more than a decade to recover from my initial
exposure to Gaspar Noé's Irreversible. Say what you will, this is a competent,
confident and fearless filmmaker. I guess time has made me jaded and
less-sensitized to the extreme scene(s) or maybe it was just that I knew what to
expect. The film is still brilliantly impacting, unforgettable, creatively
realized, unrestrained and eye-openingly unique. It totally deserves this
stellar and complete double Blu-ray release from Indicator. It gets our absolute
highest recommendation.
_______________________________
Last Gasp [Blu-ray]
(Scott McGinnis, 1995) Vinegar Syndrome
US:
https://amzn.to/3tqTe8M
COMMENTS: Leslie Chase will do anything
it takes to push through his mega real estate development, even if it includes
arranging the massacre of a Mexican native tribe to clear a patch of land. But
no bad deed goes unpunished as, after murdering the tribe's chief in cold blood,
Leslie's body and mind are taken over by the chief's vengeful spirit. Forced
into committing a series of heinous murders Leslie's life is thrown into greater
peril when a private detective, who has been hired to investigate the
disappearance of one of his victims, begins to suspect that the elusive real
estate tycoon is harboring a deadly secret...
_______________________________
A Lovely Way to Die
[Blu-ray] (David Lowell Rich, 1968) Kino
US:
https://amzn.to/31BSfGE
CAN:
https://amzn.to/3dj4j5m
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_136/a_lovely_way_to_die_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: A Lovely Way to Die is not
premium Kirk Douglas although he is excellent as the macho-lothario ex-cop P.I./bodyguard.
Sylva Koscina (Deadlier Than the Male) is scantily dressed through most of her
screen-time... which could be considered quite a bonus. I found the humor to add
an awkwardness to a decent thriller. Certainly a good film for 'star-spotting'
and the commentary adds immense value. Without the Kino Blu-ray this may have
continued to be out of the conversation and it was nice to revisit.
________________________________
**Masculin Féminin**
[Blu-ray] (Jean-Luc Godard, 1966) Criterion
US:
https://amzn.to/3fECC9T
CAN:
https://amzn.to/3sXrMzG
UK:
https://amzn.to/2PrW2Ej
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_136/masculin_feminin_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: "We are the children of Marx
and Coca-Cola." Jean-Luc Godard's Masculin Féminin is pure - shot with
naturalistic intent and his unique early visual black and white style. His
cinema in this time period remains highly attractive with a curious subtext that
seems to improve, or get even 'cooler' over time. Something that can be
revisited for the rest of our lives and this new Criterion Blu-ray is a
brilliant a/v upgrade - no 'new' extras - but the presentation is worth the
indulgence adding more beauty, charm and nostalgia to your viewing. Our highest
recommendation!
________________________________
Mr. Sardonicus
[Blu-ray] (William Castle, 1961) Indicator UK
UK:
https://amzn.to/3iIV14O
INDICATOR:
https://www.powerhousefilms.co.uk/products/mr-sardonicus-bd?utm_source=DVDBEAVER&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=MR-SARDONICUS-BD
OUR ALT-REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film3/blu-ray_reviews52/homicidal_sardonicus_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Fresh from Hammer’s Taste of
Fear, Ronald Lewis teamed up with William Castle for what the famed horror
producer considered one his favourite films. Lewis plays Sir Robert Cargrave, a
British doctor who receives a letter from an ex-lover about an intriguing case.
Her husband, the titular Mr Sardonicus (Guy Rolfe, Yesterday’s Enemy), requires
medical attention for his horribly deformed face… Once seen, you’ll never be
able to forget it.
_______________________________
Pledge Night [Blu-ray]
(Paul Ziller, 1990) RB UK 101 Films
UK:
https://amzn.to/3sX6C4f
COMMENTS: It's hazing season at Phi Up
and the boys are up to all sorts of nasty pranks on their hapless pledges, in
between regular bouts of 'wetting their whistles' at the campus watering hole
with some of the area's beautiful sorority babes. But this is going to be one
literal 'hell week' as they unwittingly unleash the spirit of Acid Sid; an
unfortunate pledge who was accidentally dissolved in acid during a hazing prank
gone wrong some 20 years earlier. As the helpless fratboys and pledges fall
victim to Sid's wrath and seemingly indestructible towering zombie corpse, it's
up to the stragglers to figure out how to kill someone who's been dead for two
decades...or die trying.
_______________________________
The Pot Carriers
[Blu-ray] (Peter Graham Scott, 1962) RB UK Network
UK:
https://amzn.to/3rvEcgm
COMMENTS: Ronald Fraser reprises his
role as a petty career criminal in the big-screen remake of ITV's 1960 hit
comedy-drama Play of the Week. An authentic and original look at life behind
bars, The Pot Carriers also stars Paul Massie as a first-time prisoner, Carole
Lesley as the girl he left outside and Dennis Price in a memorable turn as the
charming-but-unprincipled Smooth-Tongue Bertie. It is featured here as a High
Definition remaster from original film elements in its original theatrical
aspect ratio. James Rainbow is sentenced to twelve months for GBH. Assigned to
prison kitchen duties, he is taken under the wing of several old lags led by
Redband and becomes involved in some of their fiddles. Redband, however, is due
to be released soon – and wants to pull one really big fiddle before he goes!
_______________________________
Quick Change [Blu-ray]
(Howard Franklin, Bill Murray, 1990) Warner Archives
US:
https://amzn.to/2PNElPb
CAN:
https://amzn.to/3nrb7SX
COMMENTS: The star of Caddyshack,
Ghostbusters and Groundhog Day headlines and codirects this uproarious Big Apple
heist-and-pursuit caper. Bill Murray plays Grimm, a frazzled urbanite who
disguises himself as a clown and sets out to rob a bank. Geena Davis and Randy
Quaid play accomplices in Grimms daring scheme and Jason Robards is the blustery
cop caught up in Grimms Clown Day Afternoon. Swiping a million bucks is a snap
compared to getting out of town. Grimm and cohorts commandeer a car, a cab, a
bus, a baggage tram and a plane (and encounter future stars Stanley Tucci and
Tony Shalhoub in hilarious supporting roles) to make what becomes a
less-than-merry escape. But for comedy lovers, Quick Change is a ticket to ride!
_______________________________
Raw [Blu-ray] (Julia
Ducournau, 2016) RB UK Second Sight Films
UK:
https://amzn.to/3pDjmL5
COMMENTS: Strict vegetarian Justine
faces a merciless onslaught of hazing rituals during her first week at
veterinary school. One of these is the eating of raw meat and desperate to fit
in she can't refuse. This taste of flesh not only compromises her principles but
awakens an uncontrollable craving with horrific consequences.
_______________________________
**The Roy Andersson Collection**
[Blu-ray] (A Swedish Love Story, Songs From the Second Floor, You, The Living,
and A Pigeon Sat on a Bench Reflecting on Existence) RB UK Curzon Artificial Eye
UK:
https://amzn.to/2NhavSs
COMMENTS: Over the years Roy Andersson
has cultivated his incredibly idiosyncratic view of the world through his
surreal, philosophical, humorous and, ultimately humanist cinema. His dedication
to his work has made him one of the most revered auteurs of our time. A highly
collectable limited edition, this collection not only boasts all of Roy
Andersson’s critically-acclaimed works, but it also includes the exclusive home
entertainment release of the BIFA-nominated documentary Being a Human Person.
Following the making of what Andersson has proclaimed is his final film, About
Endlessness, Being a Human Person is a deeply moving look at the life and work
of this brilliant artist.
_______________________________
Rush Week [Blu-ray]
(Bob Bralver, 1989) Vinegar Syndrome
US:
https://amzn.to/2R3iDY9
COMMENTS: Toni Daniels is an ambitious
young journalist working for her college newspaper. Tired of covering the same
boring stories as her peers, Toni becomes intrigued by the recent disappearances
of several female students and believes that they may be linked to an on-campus
murder that happened the previous year during the college's raucous Rush Week.
Despite being certain that something terrible has been happening on campus, no
one she talks to is willing to admit that the disappearances are cause for
concern. Undeterred, Tori decides to investigate the mystery on her own, but
before long finds herself becoming embroiled in a twist filled saga of deeply
buried, and bloody secrets which attract the attention of a sadistic killer who
will stop at nothing to hide the truth...
_______________________________
Spookies [Blu-ray]
(Genie Joseph, 1986) RB UK 101 Films
UK:
https://amzn.to/3vnBnBp
COMMENTS: After their car breaks down, a
group of travelers find themselves stranded in a remote part of New England.
After taking shelter in a spooky old mansion, complete with a graveyard, they
discover a ouija board and decide to spend the night attempting to summon some
spirits. But the group soon learns that playing with the forces of black magic
isn't fun and games, and it's not long before they're head-to-head with all
sorts of demonic creatures, shape shifters, and other forms of evil, all of whom
are more than happy to pick them off in the most gruesome of ways.
_______________________________
Stray [Blu-ray]
(Elizabeth Lo, 2020) RB UK Dogwoof
UK:
https://amzn.to/3b4e0mN
COMMENTS: Stray explores what it means
to live as a being without status or security, following three strays as they
embark on inconspicuous journeys through Turkish society. Zeytin, fiercely
independent, embarks on adventures through the city at night; Nazar, nurturing
and protective, easily befriends the humans around her; while Kartal, a shy
puppy living on the outskirts of a construction site, finds companions in the
security guards who care for her. The strays’ disparate lives intersect when
they each form intimate bonds with a group of young Syrians with whom they share
the streets. Director Elizabeth Lo’s award-winning film is a critical
observation of human civilization through the unfamiliar gaze of dogs and a
sensory voyage into new ways of seeing.
_______________________________
**Switchblade Sisters**
[Blu-ray] (Jack Hill, 1975) Arrow US
US:
https://amzn.to/3a7YmqU
UK:
https://amzn.to/3uNFsOc
CAN:
https://amzn.to/32alcKb
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_137/switchblade_sisters_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Jack Hill's Switchblade
Sisters is a quintessential classic of the exploitation genre. A decently made
film with some sub-themes, good dialogue and a supremely attractive premise.
There is a lot here to enjoy from the beautiful a/v transfer, the pairing of the
Deighan / Ellinger commentary, documentary, interviews and delightful cover(s).
Fans of this niche of films will be very pleased with this exceptional Arrow
Blu-ray package. We wish all films were as completely and competently put to
this home video format. A very strong recommendation!
________________________________
The Terror - Season 1
[Blu-ray] RB UK RLJE International
UK:
https://amzn.to/3d2vCSq
COMMENTS: Starring Jared Harris (Chernobyl),
Ciaran Hinds (Game of Thrones) and Tobias Menzies (The Crown), The Terror is
inspired by the British Royal Navy's real life expedition into uncharted
territory as the crew attempts to discover the fabled Northwest Passage. Finding
instead a monstrous, gothic horror that stalks the boats and the minds of the
men in a desperate game of survival, the men are forced to face their worst
fears. Frozen, isolated and stuck at the end of the earth, the crew must
simultaneously battle the elements, the supernatural and eventually themselves
to try to overcome the true Terror.
_______________________________
**The Time Travelers**
[Blu-ray] (Ib Melchior, 1964) Scorpion Releasing
US:
https://amzn.to/3e0VU8y
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_135/the_time_travelers_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Ib Melchior's The Time
Travelers is a camp classic. It hints at When Worlds Collide and even has John
Hoyt. There are also Forbidden Planet vibes going on, add some misplaced humor,
playmate of the Month Delores Wells and it's a 60's sci-fi gem. It's not goofy
or horrible - it is just a quintessential example of the lower budget charisma
of this genre - missing any imaginative futurism... but we still love them. The
Scorpion Releasing Blu-ray is a solid HD presentation - a huge leap over the DVD
- but vacant in the extras department. For my digital library - it's a
'must-have'.
________________________________
The Tingler [Blu-ray]
(William Castle, 1959) Indicator UK
UK:
https://amzn.to/3iFF4wl
INDICATOR:
https://www.powerhousefilms.co.uk/products/the-tingler-bd?utm_source=DVDBEAVER&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=TINGLER-BD
COMMENTS: Horror icon Vincent Price (The
Mad Magician) plays a scientist who makes a remarkable discovery: within every
human resides a creature, attached to the spine, that tingles in cases of fear.
He manages to extract a Tingler from a recently murdered housewife, but the
creature escapes... One of the highpoints in the career of famed
producer-director William Castle, The Tingler is an outlandish, inventive
B-movie classic. And remember: a scream at the right time may save your life."
_______________________________
**To Sir, with Love**
[Blu-ray] (James Clavell, 1967) Indicator
UK:
https://amzn.to/3qOxq5q
US:
https://amzn.to/36OU7ir
INDICATOR:
https://www.powerhousefilms.co.uk/products/to-sir-with-love-bd?utm_source=DVDBEAVER&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=TO-SIR-WITH-LOVE-BD
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film5/blu-ray_reviews_66/to_sir_with_love_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Sidney Poitier gives one of
his finest performances as Thackeray, an out-of-work engineer who decides to try
his hand at teaching, only to be faced with a class full of unruly teens
(including Christian Roberts, Judy Geeson, Suzy Kendall, and Lulu) intent on
breaking his spirit. But Thackeray, no stranger to hostility, meets the
challenge by treating the students as young adults. When offered an engineering
job, Thackeray must decide if he wants to stay.
_______________________________
**Upgrade** [Blu-ray]
(Leigh Whannell, 2018) RB UK Second Sight Films
UK:
https://amzn.to/3cMGAv3
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film6/blu-ray_reviews_80/upgrade_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Leigh Whannell also directed
Insidious: Chapter 3, writing the original Insidious and Chapter 2 and he has
acted in many films including The Matrix Reloaded, Saw etc.. He appears to have
an association with James Wan. Well, we want more. Logan Marshall-Green was in
Quarry, which we also loved - and want more of. This was destined to have a
strong following - it's brilliant. 'Upgrade' has definitely received an upgrade!
This Blu-ray package is the one to own and is strongly recommended!
_______________________________
Vanquish [Blu-ray]
(George Gallo, 2021) Artisan / Lionsgate
US:
https://amzn.to/3cqzD1t
COMMENTS: A mother, Victoria (Ruby
Rose), is trying to put her dark past as a Russian drug courier behind her, but
retired cop Damon (Morgan Freeman) forces Victoria to do his bidding by holding
her daughter hostage.
________________________________
**Wanted for Murder**
(Lawrence Huntington, 1946) / **Cast a Dark Shadow** (Lewis
Gilbert, 1955) [Blu-ray] Cohen
US:
https://amzn.to/2QpTBlC
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_137/cast_dark_shadow_wanted_murder_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: I really enjoyed both films,
probably Cast a Dark Shadow more. Bogarde is excellent as the charming playboy
fortune-hunter. Kudos to Kay Walsh as the pragmatic second sugar-lady. Wanted
for Murder was more of a police procedural but still a fascinating serial-killer
hunt. Both work well as thrillers carrying enough dark cinema conventions to
please Noir fans on both sides of the pond. Notably Kathleen Harrison is in both
films in small roles. While commentaries would be warranted for both - having
these rarities together on one stellar Cohen Media Blu-ray is a must-own for
vintage film fans. Brilliant with plenty of value here. Strongly recommended!
________________________________
Werewolves on Wheels
[Blu-ray] (Michel Levesque, 1971) Code Red
US:
https://amzn.to/31GMgR4
CAN:
https://amzn.to/3woHR3a
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_136/werewolves_on_wheels_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Werewolves on Wheels is about
75% biker film with the werewolf'ing seeming like an afterthought. It is kinda
of appealing to mix the two genres into such a hybrid. Plenty of previously seen
'exploitation', or once notable, cast members; Steve Oliver (The Bloody Slaying
of Sarah Ridelander, motorcycle films Angels from Hell and Motorpsycho!), Donna
Anders (Dream No Evil), Billy Gray (notable films like The Day the Earth Stood
Still, but ending his career with The Vampyre Wars) etc. It's a function of its
period and has nostalgic value with some gratuitous Satanic ritual nudity,
complete with snake. It's quite scattered for a viable horror, with a rabid
werewolf melee, but some may find the latter cult/lycanthropy-angle appealing.
The bare-bones Code Red Blu-ray may interest Drive-In genre-loving fans but only
in its notable a/v improvement over DVD.
_______________________________
Marvel Studio's X-Men 1-10 Movie
Collection [Blu-ray] - RB UK Walt Disney
UK:
https://amzn.to/38dyglg
COMMENTS: Follow the epic story of the
X-MEN, a group of humans with genetic mutations that give them extraordinary
abilities. Engaged in a constant battle for acceptance in society, the X-MEN
must learn to use their powers to fight those intent on world domination. Join
Professor X, Storm, Jean Grey, Cyclops and Wolverine as they try to save
themselves and the world from Magneto, Sentinels, and Apocalypse, a powerful
mutant whose vengeful wrath threatens the planet.
_______________________________
**World on a Wire**
[Blu-ray] (Rainer Werner Fassbinder, 1973) RB UK Second Sight Films
UK:
https://amzn.to/3rJAdO7
OUR ALT-REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film3/blu-ray_reviews52/world_on_a_wire_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Simulacron 1 is a highly
advanced project, designed to elevate conventional computer technology to a new
level by creating a virtual reality inhabited by computer-generated people or
'identity units'. When the head of the project dies mysteriously after showing
signs of mental disturbance, Dr Stiller becomes his successor. As he begins to
probe deeper into Simulacron, the line between the real and virtual world
becomes increasingly blurred and his own existence is questioned. Rainer Werner
Fassbinder's acclaimed science fiction classic has been hugely influential, with
themes that would later be explored in films such as The Matrix.
________________________________________________
NOTABLE NEW CALENDAR UPDATES:
May 10th, 2021
Bachelor in Paradise
(Jack Arnold, 1961) Warner Archive
https://amzn.to/2Qvph9o
**They Won't Believe Me**
(Irving Pichel, 1947) Warner Archive
https://amzn.to/3trXqVT
**The Yearling**
(Clarence Brown, 1946) Warner Archive
https://amzn.to/32B104B
________________________________
May 17th, 2021
**Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream
House** (H.C. Potter, 1948) Warner Archive
https://amzn.to/3xkDMgV
**The Private Lives of Elizabeth
and Essex** (Michael Curtiz, 1939) Warner Archive
https://amzn.to/3aAL6LY
**The Rainmaker**
(Joseph Anthony, 1956) Umbrella
https://amzn.to/3azsDPy
________________________________
May 24th, 2021
Love After Death / The Good, the
Bad, and the Beautiful - AGFA (American Genre Film Archive)
https://amzn.to/3gEEVtU
The Silence Before Bach /
Mudanza - Region FREE Uk - Second Run
https://amzn.to/2QtnyBF
**Smile** (Michael
Ritchie, 1975) Fun City Editions
https://amzn.to/3gO0j07
The Tender Trap
(Charles Walters, 1955) Warner Archive
https://amzn.to/3tQIYqN
**Yourself and Yours**
(Sang-soo Hong, 2016) Cinema Guild
https://amzn.to/3sQFDqm
________________________________
May 31st, 2021
**Essential Film Noir:
Collection 2** (1951-1954) - Hollywood Story (1951), The City That
Never Sleeps (1953), Plunder of the Sun (1953) and Private Hell 36 (1954) -
Imprint Records
https://amzn.to/32KfuiE
Stardust (Gabriel
Range, 2020) RB UK Vertigo Releasing
https://amzn.to/3eIisd5
________________________________
June 7th, 2021
**Under the Sand**
(François Ozon, 2000) Kino
https://amzn.to/3dqIW39
**The Woman One Longs For**
(Curtis Bernhardt, 1929) Kino
https://amzn.to/2QxM4RM
________________________________
June 28th, 2021
**In Harm's Way** (Otto
Preminger, 1965) Paramount
https://amzn.to/3doIvWX
**Le Mans** (Lee H.
Katzin, 1971) Paramount
https://amzn.to/2QvvUs7
**Poison** (Todd
Haynes, 1991) Kino Lorber/Zeitgeist
https://amzn.to/3x3oVaJ
________________________________
June 14th, 2021
Basic Instinct 4K UHD
(Paul Verhoeven, 1992) Studiocanal UK
https://amzn.to/2QXZJld
________________________________
July 5th, 2021
Beyond Terror (Tomás
Aznar, 1980) Cauldron Films
https://amzn.to/3awGCG3
The Crimes of the Black Cat
(Sergio Pastore, 1972) Cauldron Films
https://amzn.to/3dNzF5j
________________________________
July 12th, 2021
**The Pianist** (Roman
Polanski, 2002) Shout! Factory
https://amzn.to/3eucpZb
July 5th, 2021
**Bringing Up Baby**
(Howard Hawks, 1938) Criterion
https://amzn.to/3dslouK
**Mirror** (Andrei
Tarkovsky, 1975) Criterion
https://amzn.to/3e4XEvS
________________________________
July 12th, 2021
**Deep Cover** (Bill
Duke, 1992) Criterion
https://amzn.to/3efaqbn
Working Girls (Lizzie
Borden, 1986) Criterion
https://amzn.to/3n2Cvqb
________________________________
July 19th, 2021
**The Big Fix** (Jeremy
Kagan, 1978) Indicator UK
https://amzn.to/2Qeotpk
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film/DVDReviews20/the_big_fix_blu-ray.htm
**The Day of the Dolphin**
(Mike Nichols, 1973) Indictaor UK
https://amzn.to/3srVvj9
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film8/blu-ray_review_101/day_of_the_dolphin_blu-ray.htm
Invincible (Werner
Herzog, 2001) Indicator UK
https://amzn.to/3spkqDF
**Ishtar** (Elaine May,
1987) Indicator UK
https://amzn.to/2Q9NqSZ
**The Swimming Pool aka La
piscine** (Jacques Deray, 1969) Criterion
https://amzn.to/3svAu70
________________________________
July 26th, 2021
Chamber of Horrors (Hy
Averback, 1966) Shout! Factory
https://amzn.to/3enad5S
**The Dead Zone**
(David Cronenberg, 1983) Shout! Factory
https://amzn.to/32LLrH2
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film/DVDReviews25/the_dead_zone_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:
**Assignment Terror**
BD
Ronin:
https://roninflix.com/products/assignment-terror
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_137/assignment_terror_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Well, what can I say? I loved
Assignment Terror as I did trashy Euro genre flics like Werewolf in a Girls'
Dormitory, Horrors of Spider Island and Castle of the Creeping Flesh. Naschy is
underused as his Waldemar Daninsky / Werewolf character but the Tao-Tet Mummy is
a wonderful, green-Asian-zombi-fied, stalking monster (look at those captures!)
Assignment Terror's flaws and sincerity at taking itself seriously are part of
its huge 'campy' appeal. As well as star Michael Rennie - the benevolent alien
in 1951's The Day the Earth Stood Still - playing a less-peaceful Cosmic invader
(with the old excuse of his planet dying), stalwart and iconic Paul Naschy as
Professor (and Count) Daninsky, plus a trifecta of babes; stunning Spanish
actress Diana Sorel, German Karin Dor and her penetrating dark eyes as well as
American nubile Patty Shepard. Score! What about handsome Craig Hill's sparkling
green eyes fro the ladies? I really enjoyed the Scorpion Releasing Blu-ray and
couldn't stop watching the screen as there was so much going on - it really
moves at quite a clip in advancing the plot's absurdities. I found this a
quintessential example of this fascinating genre of slap-dash weak older horrors
that tenuously link to the Universal monsters of the past. Howarth's commentary
was insightful and adds further value to this package. Certainly recommended to
others who can appreciate this niche of messy films. This is something I would
throw on at parties, although it would be very distracting.
______________________________________
**Fast Times at Ridgemont High**
BD
US:
https://amzn.to/3pj0Tn4
CAN:
https://amzn.to/2QsCsrI
UK:
https://amzn.to/3xbtVKx
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_137/fast_times_at_ridgemont_high_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Amy Heckerling's Fast Times at
Ridgemont High has really embedded itself into our culture gaining a strong
niche following with the young Sean Penn, Jennifer Jason Leigh, nubile Phoebe
Cates, the memorable dialogue between Spicoli and Mr. Hand (Ray Walston); "You
Dick", while also speaking to real teen and maturity issues in a seriously
addressed and authentic expression. It's a very well-made film despite the
negative slant on the, generalized, teen-comedy genre. The Criterion Blu-ray
video transfer will be discussed but it, negligibly, has the best audio and
having the important commentary and documentary also here - we also get the
addition of desirable TV version in HD, and, Heckerling at the AFI plus the
director and Crowe, moderated by Wilde in a new video conversation plus the
liner notes. Fans will probably find enough valid reasons to double-dip on this
title.
______________________________________
**The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
4K UHD**
US:
https://amzn.to/2N2ezW8
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_137/the_good_the_bad_and_the_ugly_4K_UHD.htm
COMMENTS: Kino Lorber have released a
new 2-disc set of "The Good, The Bad and the Ugly". The first disc features the
original US Theatrical Cut of the film on a 4K UHD with the film taking up over
80 GB of the 100GB capacity of the storage. It does NOT have any HDR applied.
The lack of HDR10, HDR10+, or Dolby
Vision makes this a fascinating package. The image looks stellar - significantly
better than Kino's own Blu-ray from 2017 (compared by DVDBeaver HERE) - that
was, heavily, criticized for its heavy golden palette. The bitrate is much
higher than any digital release of the film, and the improved detail (thanks to
more information in the UHD's 3840/2160 pixels) tightens the visuals, especially
when viewing the film on a large screen or projector. It is impressive. A
heftier contrast helps to show a wider range, and depth, of colors. The 4K UHD
and Blu-ray (both with new 2021 transfers) picture now has a much more
consistent tone, without the previous 2017 release's emphasis on the cold/blue
tint, also without being bathed in a yellow/golden haze as it was in a previous
version. - Colin Zavitz
______________________________________
**Merrily We Go To Hell**
BD
US:
https://amzn.to/3v6tejG
CAN:
https://amzn.to/3gsUEfz
UK:
https://amzn.to/32zTo23
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!
______________________________________
**Irreversible** BD
UK:
https://amzn.to/3stWHSV
INDICATOR:
https://www.powerhousefilms.co.uk/collections/frontpage/products/irreversible-le?utm_source=DVDBEAVER&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=IRREVERSIBLE-LE
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film/DVDReview/irreversible.htm
COMMENTS: Speechless. This is one of the
best Blu-ray packages of the year. I was thankful to revisit this polarizing
film-experience after requiring more than a decade to recover from my initial
exposure to Gaspar Noé's Irreversible. Say what you will, this is a competent,
confident and fearless filmmaker. I guess time has made me jaded and
less-sensitized to the extreme scene(s) or maybe it was just that I knew what to
expect. The film is still brilliantly impacting, unforgettable, creatively
realized, unrestrained and eye-openingly unique. It totally deserves this
stellar and complete double Blu-ray release from Indicator. It gets our absolute
highest recommendation.
______________________________________
Death Has Blue Eyes BD
US:
https://amzn.to/3mZGVhH
UK:
https://amzn.to/32sTGaX
CAN:
https://amzn.to/2Q8NHFW
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_137/death_has_blue_eyes_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Nico Mastorakis's Death Has
Blue Eyes shows what would be trademarks of the director's future career;
exploitation thrillers with nudity and kink. Like Blind Date, Island of Death,
In the Cold of the Night, and The Wind throw in themes of the supernatural,
conspiracy, horror, or slasher angles and you have Euro-genre-sleaze at its most
quintessential. Make no doubt, there is something to this filmmaker - an
obviousness and extravagance, without pretense or shame, that makes interesting
and fun, while extreme, films. Death Has Blue Eyes is relatively tame but
fearless in cheesecake-like nudity and occasional romps in bed that have little
to do with the major plot of a controlled Psychic and political assassination.
Arrow Blu-ray have a soft-spot for Mastorakis and I would have never seen these
exploitation larks without them bringing many of his films to 1080P. Trust me
this is much better than it's IMDb rating (3.0/10) but you better be in a
forgiving cinephile mood or at least let yourself have some fun with it. Maria
Aliferi is certainly not hard to look at - a Greek actress who was very popular
on 80's TV in her home country. Her interview in the extras is worth watching.
Director completists, Euro-film aficionados and exploitation genre fans in
general are recommended to indulge.
______________________________________
**The Beast with a Million
Eyes** BD
Ronin:
https://roninflix.com/products/the-beast-with-1-000-000-eyes
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_137/the_beast_with_a_million_eyes_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: The Beast with a Million Eyes
fits absolutely perfectly in our listing of 1950s + 60s science-fiction /
fantasy / creature-feature Blu-ray entries. It's a prime example of inventive
filmmaking under the restrictions of a limited budget. It conveys suspense and
'science-fiction unknowns' with modest but effective filmmaking. While the story
is simple, it blends-in family relationship and other personal conflict themes.
Special effects are at the very low end but I miss these pragmatic productions
that engender a huge nostalgic appreciation. As an aside it's what I appreciate
about this genre that is rarely made today - I am thinking of Dark Was the Night
as a modern favorite in this vein that holds an homage to these sci-fi horror
gems from the past. I thoroughly enjoyed the Scorpion Releasing Blu-ray of The
Beast with a Million Eyes complete with the essential Tim Lucas commentary. It
will be sit proudly on my shelf with similar from the era and revisited when the
mood strikes. To those who embrace these flawed but lovable films - this is
certainly recommended.
______________________________________
Battle Hymn BD
US:
https://amzn.to/3ebZR8R
CAN:
https://amzn.to/3dvalRF
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_137/battle_hymn_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Douglas Sirk's Battle Hymn is
not to be considered with his famous melodramas of the same era, but is
none-the-less a decent film, well played by Rock and support from Martha Hyer,
Dan Duryea, Don DeFore, Anna Kashfi, Jock Mahoney, Alan Hale Jr. etc. It's a
good story as well with themes of morality conflicting with war, belief in the
human spirit and is uplifting. It's a film I had never seen and was pleased to
see it via the Kino Blu-ray with the Pinkerton commentary.
______________________________________
**Dawn of the Dead 4K UHD**
UK:
https://amzn.to/3t9ekZz
UK (LE):
https://amzn.to/2QjBihK
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film/DVDCompare5/dawn_of_the_dead_UHD_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: This is truly a phenomenal
release from Second Sight. While I have a few nitpicks about the 4K UHD image,
this is surely the best the film has looked to date. And the third disc, though
lacking HDR+, has a more familiar, earthy tone to the image. "Dawn of the Dead''
blew my mind when I first saw it at age 12, and lord only knows how many times I
have watched it since. Anchor Bay's previous DVD set with all the cuts was a
prized possession of mine (and yes, Ken Foree autographed my copy) but rest
assured, this new Second Sight release takes the cake. The new commentary from
Travis Crawford is fantastic, as are the exquisitely produced bonus features
(thanks to Severin Films). To those without a Region 'B' Blu-ray player, you may
be unable to see the 4th discs extras, but the first 3 4K UHD Discs work in any
UHD player thanks to the 4K format's lack of Region Coding (a blessing if there
ever was one). While I didn't personally have the money to shell out for the
ginormous limited edition set, if you can afford it, I assume it's even better
(with the added CD's and booklet). Highly recommended to fans, and to anyone who
has yet to experience this iconic piece of film. - Colin Zavitz
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