DVDBeaver Newsletter
for the Week of October 4th, 2021
http://www.dvdbeaver.com
THIS WEEK RELEASES
include Universal Classic Monsters 4K UHD, more Stanley Kubrick 4K UHD,
Criterion Kaneto Shindô masterpiece, Powell - Pressburger, Audrey Hepburn 7-Film
Blu-ray Boxset, more Tex Avery, Archie Mayo, Kenneth Branagh, Don Knotts Boxset,
Elvira, more John Carpenter in 4K UHD, grindy swamps, 70's TV thrillers with
Bette Davis, Olivia de Havilland and Elizabeth Montgomery....
THIS WEEK's CALENDAR UPDATES
- (repeated): Michael Powell + Emeric Pressburger in 4KUHD!, Philip Kaufman
'invasion' in 4K UHD, Josef von Sternberg, Rainer Werner Fassbinder, James
Cameron in 4K UHD, Karl Freund, J. Lee Thompson, Paul Thomas Anderson, Kurt
Neumann, Robert Siodmak, John Farrow, Rod Serling TV, Woody Allen, John Huston,
Vittorio Cottafavi, John Sturges, Lewis Milestone, and Santo gets a boxset! ...
THIS WEEK'S REVIEWS:
Dr. Lecter and Agent Clarice in 4K UHD, medieval Japan female survivalism and
superstition given the Criterion treatment, the first by "The Archers",
Francesco Rosi brilliant crime-thriller, Rebecca Hall ghost hoax-exposer post
Victorian Era, Gus van Sant's addict verite, and three commentary-stacked 70's
TV horrors circling Grande Dame Guignol territory...
Enjoy,
Gary
RELEASES the WEEK of October
4th, 2021 (Recommended titles have "**")
1974: La posesión de Altair
[Blu-ray] (Victor Dryere, 2016) Cauldron Film
US:
https://amzn.to/3wSQwdy
CAN: https://amzn.to/3otCLkF
COMMENTS: When newlywed Altair claims to have found a way of communicating with
God, she builds a black brick door in her bedroom but her increasingly erratic
behavior points to something more sinister. Her spiral is documented on the 8mm
films shot by her husband and later found after their disappearance. Cauldron
Films is proud to present the world wide Blu-ray debut of the Mexican found
footage film 1974: La posesión de Altair. Shot on super8 film and directed by
Victor Dryere, this meticulously created descent into madness uses atmosphere
and brooding sound design to shape an unnerving experience.
_____________________
Angel on My Shoulder
[Blu-ray] (Archie Mayo, 1946) VCI
US:
https://amzn.to/3ArsSrr
CAN: https://amzn.to/3ozgfHr
COMMENTS: Paul Muni gives another classic performance in this wonderful fantasy
about a notorious gangster who is murdered by a double-crossing partner. While
in Hell, he makes a deal with the Devil, played with relish by Claude Rains, to
return to earth. Muni plans to take the place of a candidate for governor, who
happens to be a dead ringer for his spectral self, which enables him to revenge
his premature demise while helping Satan recruit new souls with his new powerful
governor status. Things backfire however, when the innate goodness of the real
governor gradually starts to affect his replacement, turning Muni into a force
for good in such a way even his Satanic Majesty doesn't expect.
_____________________
**The Audrey Hepburn 7-Film
Collection** [Blu-ray] (Breakfast at Tiffany's, Funny Face, My Fair
Lady, War and Peace, Paris When it Sizzles, Roman Holiday, Sabrina) Paramount
US: https://amzn.to/3C1Bjun
COMMENTS: Beauty. Style. Grace. Audrey
Hepburn captured us with her beauty and won us with her heart. These timeless
classics in the stellar Audrey Hepburn 7-Movie Collection will captivate adoring
fans and introduce new generations to one of the most iconic movie stars of all
time.
_____________________
**"The
Awakening"** Blu-ray - Rebecca Hall @CohenFilm
US:
https://amzn.to/2ZPtvgH
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/awakening-blu-56863659
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film10/blu-ray_review_159/the_awakening_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: This got by my radar. I really liked The Awakening - especially the
first 3/4s of the running time. It has a very appealing old-worlde 'haunting'
atmosphere throughout. Rebecca Hall is fabulous - as are the supporting cast and
splendid art direction plus the impacting score. I'll try to determine why Cohen
Media released this - and how it may deviate from other editions. I enjoyed the
film - perhaps extending itself a shade too far but I thought it would have made
a good series. The Cohen Media Blu-ray offered me a very pleasurable viewing
experience.
_____________________
**A Clockwork Orange [4K UHD
Blu-ray]** (Stanley Kubrick, 1971) Warner UK
UK:
https://amzn.to/3iiPT94
COMMENTS: In a futuristic welfare state, Alex (Malcolm McDowell), a vicious
young hoodlum, sleeps all day and spends his nights roaming the city with his
droogs (friends), striking innocent people in the streets and in their homes.
Finally captured by the police, Alex undergoes rehabilitation in the form of
aversion therapy as brutal and horrifying as any of his offenses.
_____________________
The Collingswood Story
[Blu-ray] (Michael Costanza, 2002) Cauldron Films
US:
https://amzn.to/3BesCfP
CAN: https://amzn.to/3mnFdGH
COMMENTS: When Rebecca went away to college, her boyfriend John thought video
chatting would help them stay in touch. But idle curiosity leads to a dark
secret when Rebecca and John video chat with Vera Madeline, an online psychic,
who initiates a deadly reign of terror over their lives. The Collingswood Story
is an innovative and acclaimed micro budget horror film by writer\/director Mike
Costanza. It's the first found footage film to be viewed through webcams, which
helped pave the way for future hits such as Host, Paranormal Activity, and
Unfriended. Its macabre tale of murder, ritual, and mystery is told through an
immersive interface where each character uses a cam for their own voyeuristic
purposes - to communicate, to investigate, and to victimize - ultimately
becoming witness to a shocking and disturbing finish!
_____________________
**Dead Again**
[Blu-ray] (Kenneth Branagh, 1991) Paramount
US:
https://amzn.to/3zVjo6I
ALT-BEAVER REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_134/dead_again_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Set in contemporary Los
Angeles as well as the Los Angeles of the 1940s, Dead Again explores a romance
between two star-crossed lovers — and the doomed passion they shared in their
last lifetime. Los Angeles detective Mike Church (Kenneth Branagh) comes to the
aid of mute, amnesia-victim Grace (Emma Thompson) and falls in love with her. He
sets out to discover her true identity and the source of her terrible
nightmares. Mike is aided in his investigation by hypnotist/furniture dealer
Franklyn Madison (Derek Jacobi) who discovers that in a past life Grace was
Margaret Strauss (also played by Thompson), who may have been murdered by her
husband Roman.
_____________________
**The Don Knotts Collection**
[Blu-ray] (The Ghost and Mr. Chicken, The Reluctant Astronaut, The Shakiest Gun
in the West, The Love God?, How to Frame a Figg) Shout! Factory
US:
https://amzn.to/3j5wV6f
CAN: https://amzn.to/3l3rSUz
COMMENTS: Get ready for big laughs with one of the most popular and beloved
funnymen of all time in the Don Knotts Comedy Collection. After catapulting to
national fame as the often impossible but ever lovable Deputy Barney Fife on
TV's The Andy Griffith Show and before winning audiences over as wacky landlord
Ralph Furley on Three's Company, Knotts conquered the silver screen in a series
of unforgettable feature films. Showcasing his incredible comic timing and
physical humor, he finds himself in one outrageous situation after another in
The Ghost and Mr. Chicken, The Reluctant Astronaut, The Shakiest Gun in the
West, The Love God? and How to Frame a Figg.
_____________________
Elvira's Haunted Hills
[Blu-ray] (Sam Irvin, 2001) Shout! Factory
US:
https://amzn.to/3k9ZvnX
CAN: https://amzn.to/3D9W2vA
COMMENTS: In 1851, Elvira and her maid are en route to perform in Paris but
inadvertently end up at the sinister Lord Vladimere Hellsubus' medieval castle.
Bearing an uncanny resemblance to Vladimere's long-dead wife, Elvira learns of
the Hellsubus curse and finds her life in danger.
_____________________
Female Mercenaries On Zombie
Island Collection [Blu-ray] (Mad Doctor of Zombie Island, If A God
Should Fail, The Misadventures of Fanny Starr) - Camp Motion Pictures
US:
https://amzn.to/3hsj73y
CAN: https://amzn.to/2YllyiS
COMMENTS: Damsels in Distress, Cannibalism, Wonder Women, Torture, Bondage, Cat
Fights and Mad Scientists. Camp Motion Pictures is proud to present two of the
most eye-popping, jaw-dropping movies from New Jersey independent film studio
W.A.V.E. Productions in an all-new Blu-ray / DVD combo collection.
_____________________
Halloween [4K UHD Blu-ray]
(John Carpenter, 1978) - Collector's Edition [4K UHD] Shout! Factory
US:
https://amzn.to/36sZa7G
CAN: https://amzn.to/2WFAB6e
COMMENTS: On a black and unholy Halloween night years ago, little Michael Myers
brutally slaughtered his sister in cold blood. For the last fifteen years, the
people of Haddonfield have rested easily, knowing that Michael was safely locked
away in a mental hospital ... until tonight. Michael has escaped and he will
soon return to the same quiet neighborhood to relive his grisly murder again.
For this is a night of evil. Tonight is Halloween.
_____________________
He Came from the Swamp: The
William Grefé Collection [Blu-ray] - Sting of Death (1966), Death Curse
of Tartu (1966), The Hooked Generation (1968), The Psychedelic Priest (1971),
The Naked Zoo (1971), Mako: Jaws of Death (1976) and Whiskey Mountain (1977) -
Arrow UK
UK:
https://amzn.to/3y1VEwd
COMMENTS: Killer sharks and human jellyfish and living mummies, oh my! Arrow
Video is proud to present the first ever collection of works by William “Wild
Bill” Grefé, the maverick filmmaker who braved the deep, dark depths of the
Florida everglades to deliver some of the most outrageous exploitation fare ever
to go-go dance its way across drive-in screens. Bringing together seven of
Grefé’s most outlandish films, plus a feature length documentary on the
filmmaker's career, He Came from the Swamp: The William Grefé Collection packs
in a macabre menagerie of demented jellyfish men (Sting of Death), zombified
witch doctors (Death Curse of Tartu), homicidal hippies (The Hooked Generation)
and seductive matrons (The Naked Zoo) – not to mention the ubiquitous go-go
dancing – to create one of the most wildly entertaining box-sets of all time!
_____________________
Murder at the Symphony
[Blu-ray] (Soundtrack highlights from Psycho, Vertigo, The Silence of the Lambs,
Twin Peaks and Babylon Berlin) Euroarts
US:
https://amzn.to/2XjZeWa
UK: https://amzn.to/3itUfK2
COMMENTS: A dangerous concert experience with the Danish National Symphony
Orchestra. Murder at the Symphony is next in line in their conceptual series,
with another exciting concert full of mystery, thrill and popular film music.
The Danish National Symphony Orchestra manages to merge the boundaries between
classical music and film music like hardly any other orchestra. Discover
soundtracks from blood dripping movies and TV series such as Psycho, Vertigo,
The Silence of the Lambs, Twin Peaks and Babylon Berlin. It includes an
extraordinary interpretation of the hit single Where the Wild Roses Grow, the
most successful single release by Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds feat. Kylie
Minogue. It also features the theme song Open Spaces from movie drama There will
be Blood scored by Radiohead's lead guitarist and keyboardist Johnny Greenwood.
The concert includes soundtracks from hit composers such as Leonard Cohen, Hans
Zimmer, Bernard Herrmann and Nino Rota.
_____________________
**Powell and
Pressburger's "One of Our Aircraft is Missing"**
Blu-ray @BFI
UK:
https://amzn.to/3y0N7KI
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/powell-and-one-56867398
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film6/blu-ray_reviews_74/one_of_our_aircraft_is_missing_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Still such a British great war film - the first by "The Archers" with
the joint writer-producer-director 'Powell and Pressburger' credit. As Wikipedia
identifies: "A reversal of the plot of Powell and Pressburger's previous film,
49th Parallel (1941), One of Our Aircraft is Missing has the British trying to
escape with the help of various locals. In the 49th Parallel, the Germans
stranded in Canada argued and fought amongst themselves, while the British
fliers in this film work well together as a team." It has Ronald Neame as
cinematographer and film editing by David Lean! For the brilliant cinema - this
BFI Blu-ray, easily the best for your home theater, is strongly recommended!
_____________________
**Kaneto Shindô's "Onibaba"**
Blu-ray - Nobuko Otowa @Criterion
US:
https://amzn.to/2VIc67p
CAN: https://amzn.to/3miYk4T
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film/dvdcompare2/oniababa.htm
COMMENTS: Kaneto Shindô's Onibaba is another masterpiece from the director that
brought us The Naked Island, and Kuroneko. He frequently depicted the fate of
women including their sexual nature. the title Onibaba can be translated as
"Demon Hag" or "The Witch". It has elements of both social criticism and an
eerie horror. Criterion were certainly beaten to the punch with their Blu-ray
transfer - that still provides a strong presentation having differences from the
8-year old UK Blu-ray. The included commentary and other extras are a welcome
addition. Our highest recommendation to region 'A'-locked world cinephiles! A
'must-own' film.
_____________________
**"Scream,
Pretty Peggy"** Blu-ray - Bette Davis @KinoLorber
US:
https://amzn.to/3F7P7ox
CAN: https://amzn.to/3uy8aU1
BONUS CAPURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/scream-pretty-56877589
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film10/blu-ray_review_159/scream_pretty_peggy_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Scream, Pretty Peggy probably doesn't rate the Hagsploitation moniker
although it does have Bette Davis commanding the scenes she's in - only 65 at
the time and only ever seen wearing a nightgown, always with the bright red
lipstick. This wasn't horrible and Bette is definitely part of the appeal.
Short, shocking and modestly entertaining depending on your mood. The Kino
Blu-ray has a good a/v and the commentary is well worth the spin. Recommended -
more to Davis fans and those who nostalgically appreciate 70's TV horrors!
_____________________
Jack Smight's "The Screaming
Woman" Blu-ray - Olivia de Havilland @KinoLorber
US:
https://amzn.to/3D9zpHA
CAN: https://amzn.to/3l2E9Zx
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/jack-smights-blu-56910514
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film10/blu-ray_review_159/the_screaming_woman_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Jack Smight's The Screaming Woman is really all Olivia de Havilland,
who I adore. We, recently, lost here on July 26th, 2020 at age 104! This has a
smattering of a rather limp story, imo - with an enticing if less accurate title
(I don't recall screaming again prior to the opening credits.) Despite positive
critical response I wasn't as keen on it as I was The Victim and Scream, Pretty
Peggy. But it certainly fits the same sub-genre. The Kino Blu-ray looks strong
and has the valuable commentary. Nostalgic TV aficionados and de Havilland fans
may be the target market.
_____________________
The Stand [Blu-ray]
(Josh Boone, Benjamin Cavell, 2020) Paramount
US:
https://amzn.to/36FuL68
COMMENTS: When a killer plague wipes out 99% of the world’s population, the
embattled survivors struggle to make their way in a post-apocalyptic reality.
This 2020 adaptation of Stephen King’s The Stand frames the eternal battle
between good and evil, as embodied by the peaceful prophet Mother Abagail
(Academy Award winner Whoopi Goldberg) and the menacing presence Randall Flagg
(Emmy Award winner Alexander Skarsgård), and closes with a new coda written by
Stephen King himself.
_____________________
Star Of David: Beautiful Girl
Hunter [Blu-ray] (Norifumi Suzuki, 1979) Impulse Pictures
US:
https://amzn.to/3oM3DKX
CAN: https://amzn.to/3B7e0hQ
COMMENTS: Tatsuya (Shun Domon) is a young man hiding a dark secret. Born a
bastard after his mother was sexually assaulted, Tatsuya grows up in an abusive
household. Taking on characteristics of his evil biological father, he becomes
obsessed with Nazi Holocaust imagery and abducts women for his own deadly sexual
games. Now presented in a beautiful new high-definition remaster from Nikkatsu,
STAR OF DAVID: BEAUTIFUL GIRL HUNTER contains vivid torture sequences,
eye-popping sexual imagery and violent situations that may be too extreme for
some viewers. You have been warned!
_____________________
**Tex Avery Screwball: Vol 3**
[Blu-ray] - Warner Archive
US:
https://amzn.to/3hpLK2d
COMMENTS: There were several masters of animation during Hollywood's golden era.
Of the top two geniuses, one created elaborate fairy tales and ornate
feature-length fantasias -- the other guy was Tex Avery. He just wanted to make
you laugh. Having already been integrally involved in the development of Porky
Pig, Daffy Duck and Bugs Bunny for Warner Bros., Avery moved to MGM in 1941 to
create a set of comedy masterpieces that defined a new slapstick style for
animation, inspiring cartoonists, comedians and filmmakers for decades to come.
Avery's unit at Metro Goldwyn Mayer was all about breaking the fourth wall,
shattering expectations and making audiences fall down with laughter.
_____________________
This is Francis X. Bushman
[Blu-ray] - Flicker Alley
US:
https://amzn.to/3D9qZkk
COMMENTS: Produced by the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum and written by Lon
and Debra Davis, Flicker Alley presents This is Francis X. Bushman, an original
documentary that utilizes numerous still images, rare materials from the silent
era, and never-before-seen film clips to chronicle the life and career of one of
the silver screen’s most prolific and fascinating stars; American actor and
director, Francis X. Bushman.
_____________________
Trick or Treats
[Blu-ray] (Gary Graver, 1982) Code Red
US:
https://amzn.to/3D8kEWA
COMMENTS: Five years after his wife, Joan (Carrie Snodgress, THE FURY), had him
wrongfully and deliberately committed to a mental institution so she could live
with her boyfriend (David Carradine, KILL BILL, TV’s KUNG FU), Malcolm (Peter
Jason, 48 HRS) escapes on Halloween night and arrives back at his old house to
murder her. Except Joan is not home - she’s out with her boyfriend while
babysitter Linda (Jacqueline Giroux, THIS IS A HIJACK) is looking after
Malcolm’s 10-year-old son Christopher (Chris Graver), an equally psychotic and
demented practical joker until, under cover of darkness, Malcolm shows up and
begins a real terror game of attrition with Linda. Steve Railsback (THE STUNT
MAN, LIFEFORCE), Paul Bartel (EATING RAOUL), Jillian Kesner (RAW FORCE), John
Blyth Barrymore, Football greats Dan Pastorini and Tim Rossovich co-star.
Written, produced and directed by cult filmmaker Gary Graver. The great Orson
Welles (CITIZEN KANE) was the magical advisor for this cult classic.
_____________________
**Universal Classic Monsters:
Icons of Horror Collection [4K UHD Blu-ray]** (Dracula, Frankenstein,
The Invisible Man, The Wolf Man) Universal
US:
https://amzn.to/3kadwjS
CAN: https://amzn.to/3mpk67f
COMMENTS: From the era of silent movies through present day, Universal Pictures
has been regarded as the home of the monsters. Universal Classic Monsters Icons
of Horror Collection showcases four of the most iconic monsters in motion
picture history including Dracula, Frankenstein, The Invisible Man and The Wolf
Man. Starring Bela Lugosi, Boris Karloff, Lon Chaney Jr. and Claude Rains in the
roles that they made famous, these original films set the standard for a new
horror genre with revolutionary makeup, mood-altering cinematography and
groundbreaking special effects.
_____________________
**"The Victim"**
Blu-ray - Elizabeth Montgomery @KinoLorber
US:
https://amzn.to/3kPWJ6X
CAN: https://amzn.to/3zTsv7i
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/victim-blu-ray-56765351
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film10/blu-ray_review_159/the_victim_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: The Victim has appeal with
icon Elizabeth Montgomery - the daughter of Robert Montgomery (Ride the Pink
Horse.) She has huge nostalgic appeal from her exposure in TV’s Bewitched.
Millions of young men had a crush on her including myself. She was remarkably
attractive and talented. The Victim is reminiscent of other TV genre-crossovers
with female leads; Night Terror with Valerie Harper, Dying Room Only with Cloris
Leachman etc. and it uses atmospheric tropes like being alone in a potentially
haunted house with a heavy rain storm and a hidden murder that only we are privy
to throughout most of the running time. It's short but entertaining. The the
Kino Blu-ray has the Elizabeth Montgomery TV film in 1080P and a data-filled
commentary. Plenty of fans will enjoy the nostalgic trip back almost 50-years -
certainly appropriate as the opening of a rainy Friday night Double Bill.
_______________________________
LATEST CALENDAR UPDATES:
October 18th, 2021
**Mad Love** (Karl
Freund, 1935) Warner Archive
https://amzn.to/39Biwcg
______________________________
October 25th, 2021
**Eye of the Devil**
(J. Lee Thompson, 1966) Warner Archive
https://amzn.to/3zI0dNc
**Hard EightV (Paul
Thomas Anderson, 1996) Imprint
https://amzn.to/3uqJEo9
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_133/hard_eight_blu-ray.htm
______________________________
November 1st, 2021
**The Mad Doctor** (Tim
Whelan, 1940) Kino Lorber
https://amzn.to/3m0zuGP
**Mystery of Edwin Drood** (Stuart
Walker, 1935) Kino Lorber
https://amzn.to/3ENizjH
**Secret of the Blue Room**
(Kurt Neumann, 1933) Kino Lorber
https://amzn.to/3ERTQe2
**The Spider Woman Strikes
Back** (Arthur Lubin, 1946) Kino
https://amzn.to/3m2J4sG
______________________________
November 15th, 2021
**The Accused**
(Jonathan Kaplan, 1988) Kino
https://amzn.to/3AO8wZa
**Among the Living**
(Stuart Heisler, 1941) Kino
https://amzn.to/2XRYCXJ
Breakheart Pass (Tom
Gries, 1975) Kino
https://amzn.to/2XP4GQS
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film4/blu-ray_reviews_62_/breakheart_pass_blu-ray.htm
Deported (Robert
Siodmak, 1950) Kino
https://amzn.to/3CRN0U7
**Night Has a Thousand Eyes**
(John Farrow, 1948) Kino
https://amzn.to/3zGxZlV
______________________________
November 22nd, 2021
**Invasion of the Body Snatchers
4K UHD** (Philip Kaufman, 1978) Kino
https://amzn.to/2XPNLgW
**Night Gallery Season 1**
(Rod Serling, 1969) Kino
https://amzn.to/3i8rK4w
**The Woody Allen Collection**
(Bullets Over Broadway / Mighty Aphrodite / Everyone Says I Love You / Celebrity
/ Small Time Crooks / The Curse of the Jade Scorpion / Hollywood Ending /
Anything Else) Quiver Films
https://amzn.to/3ufGp2M
______________________________
November 29th, 2021
**Freud** (John Huston,
1962) Kino
https://amzn.to/3AJvTDc
**To Hell and Back**
(Jesse Hibbs, 1955) Kino
https://amzn.to/3o8TY2J
**Jet Pilot** (Josef
von Sternberg, 1957) Kino
https://amzn.to/3oeyFwZ
______________________________
December 6th, 2021
**One Night in Miami...**
(Regina King, 2020) Criterion
https://amzn.to/3ufDLcZ
**The Rainer Werner Fassbinder
Collection Vol. 2** (Fear Eats The Soul, Effi Briest, Fox And His
Friends & Chinese Roulette, The Marriage Of Maria Braun) RB UK Arrow
https://amzn.to/3i8UBp4
**Terminator 2: Judgment Day 4K
UHD** (James Cameron, 1991) Studiocanal UK
https://amzn.to/3lUOyWq
______________________________
December 13th, 2021
**The Learning Tree**
(Gordon Parks, 1969) Criterion
https://amzn.to/2Y4CTMJ
**Messalina** (Vittorio
Cottafavi, 1960) Twilight Time
https://amzn.to/39FBe2A
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film9/blu-ray_review_138/messalina_blu-ray.htm
**The Red Shoes 4K UHD**
(Michael Powell, Emeric Pressburger, 1948) Criterion
https://amzn.to/39DMLPL
______________________________
January 18th, 2022
The Capture (John
Sturges, 1950) Film Detective
https://amzn.to/2XR6Sap
Santo: El Enmascarado De Plata
(Santo in the Wax Museum, Santo in the Treasure of Dracula, Santo vs. The Riders
of Terror, Santo in the Vengeance of the Mummy, Santo vs. Frankenstein's
Daughter, Santo and Blue Demon vs. Dracula and the Wolfman, Santo and Blue Demon
vs. Frankenstein, Santo and Mantequilla Napoles in the Revenge of The Crying
Woman) VCI
https://amzn.to/2ZsINYp
**A Walk in the Sun**
(Lewis Milestone, 1945) Kit Parker Films
https://amzn.to/3uqJ75D
____________________________
REVIEWS / COMPARISONS:
Jack Smight's "The Screaming
Woman" Blu-ray - Olivia de Havilland @KinoLorber
US:
https://amzn.to/3D9zpHA
CAN: https://amzn.to/3l2E9Zx
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/jack-smights-blu-56910514
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film10/blu-ray_review_159/the_screaming_woman_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Jack Smight's The Screaming Woman is really all Olivia de Havilland,
who I adore. We, recently, lost here on July 26th, 2020 at age 104! This has a
smattering of a rather limp story, imo - with an enticing if less accurate title
(I don't recall screaming again prior to the opening credits.) Despite positive
critical response I wasn't as keen on it as I was The Victim and Scream, Pretty
Peggy. But it certainly fits the same sub-genre. The Kino Blu-ray looks strong
and has the valuable commentary. Nostalgic TV aficionados and de Havilland fans
may be the target market.
____________________________
**Kaneto Shindô's "Onibaba"**
Blu-ray - Nobuko Otowa @Criterion
US:
https://amzn.to/2VIc67p
CAN: https://amzn.to/3miYk4T
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film/dvdcompare2/oniababa.htm
COMMENTS: Kaneto Shindô's Onibaba is another masterpiece from the director that
brought us The Naked Island, and Kuroneko. He frequently depicted the fate of
women including their sexual nature. the title Onibaba can be translated as
"Demon Hag" or "The Witch". It has elements of both social criticism and an
eerie horror. Criterion were certainly beaten to the punch with their Blu-ray
transfer - that still provides a strong presentation having differences from the
8-year old UK Blu-ray. The included commentary and other extras are a welcome
addition. Our highest recommendation to region 'A'-locked world cinephiles! A
'must-own' film.
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**"Scream,
Pretty Peggy"** Blu-ray - Bette Davis @KinoLorber
US:
https://amzn.to/3F7P7ox
CAN: https://amzn.to/3uy8aU1
BONUS CAPURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/scream-pretty-56877589
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film10/blu-ray_review_159/scream_pretty_peggy_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Scream, Pretty Peggy probably doesn't rate the Hagsploitation moniker
although it does have Bette Davis commanding the scenes she's in - only 65 at
the time and only ever seen wearing a nightgown, always with the bright red
lipstick. This wasn't horrible and Bette is definitely part of the appeal.
Short, shocking and modestly entertaining depending on your mood. The Kino
Blu-ray has a good a/v and the commentary is well worth the spin. Recommended -
more to Davis fans and those who nostalgically appreciate 70's TV horrors!
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**Powell and
Pressburger's "One of Our Aircraft is Missing"**
Blu-ray @BFI
UK:
https://amzn.to/3y0N7KI
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/powell-and-one-56867398
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film6/blu-ray_reviews_74/one_of_our_aircraft_is_missing_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Still such a British great war film - the first by "The Archers" with
the joint writer-producer-director 'Powell and Pressburger' credit. As Wikipedia
identifies: "A reversal of the plot of Powell and Pressburger's previous film,
49th Parallel (1941), One of Our Aircraft is Missing has the British trying to
escape with the help of various locals. In the 49th Parallel, the Germans
stranded in Canada argued and fought amongst themselves, while the British
fliers in this film work well together as a team." It has Ronald Neame as
cinematographer and film editing by David Lean! For the brilliant cinema - this
BFI Blu-ray, easily the best for your home theater, is strongly recommended!
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**"The
Awakening"** Blu-ray - Rebecca Hall @CohenFilm
US:
https://amzn.to/2ZPtvgH
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/awakening-blu-56863659
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film10/blu-ray_review_159/the_awakening_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: This got by my radar. I really liked The Awakening - especially the
first 3/4s of the running time. It has a very appealing old-worlde 'haunting'
atmosphere throughout. Rebecca Hall is fabulous - as are the supporting cast and
splendid art direction plus the impacting score. I'll try to determine why Cohen
Media released this - and how it may deviate from other editions. I enjoyed the
film - perhaps extending itself a shade too far but I thought it would have made
a good series. The Cohen Media Blu-ray offered me a very pleasurable viewing
experience.
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**Gus Van Sant's "Drugstore
Cowboy"** Blu-ray - Matt Dillon @imprint_films
US:
https://amzn.to/2ZEqrUm
CAN: https://amzn.to/3FcrMSW
UK: https://amzn.to/2Y54bm2
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/gus-van-sants-56856174
OUR COMPARISON:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film10/blu-ray_review_159/drugstore_cowboy_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Gus Van Sant's Drugstore Cowboy is based on the autobiographical novel
by James Fogle. Personally, I am a huge fan of Van Sant's films (Mala Noche,
Paranoid Park, My Own Private Idaho, Gerry etc.) and Drugstore Cowboy was the
start of his unique brand of cinema. It is both highly memorable and very
re-watchable. The Imprint Blu-ray is easily the best home theater a/v
presentation - it has the valuable commentary, a new visual essay, interview and
limited edition packaging. This is a keeper for me. Absolutely recommended!
____________________________
**"The Victim"**
Blu-ray - Elizabeth Montgomery @KinoLorber
US:
https://amzn.to/3kPWJ6X
CAN: https://amzn.to/3zTsv7i
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/victim-blu-ray-56765351
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film10/blu-ray_review_159/the_victim_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: The Victim has appeal with icon Elizabeth Montgomery - the daughter of
Robert Montgomery (Ride the Pink Horse.) She has huge nostalgic appeal from her
exposure in TV’s Bewitched. Millions of young men had a crush on her including
myself. She was remarkably attractive and talented. The Victim is reminiscent of
other TV genre-crossovers with female leads; Night Terror with Valerie Harper,
Dying Room Only with Cloris Leachman etc. and it uses atmospheric tropes like
being alone in a potentially haunted house with a heavy rain storm and a hidden
murder that only we are privy to throughout most of the running time. It's short
but entertaining. The the Kino Blu-ray has the Elizabeth Montgomery TV film in
1080P and a data-filled commentary. Plenty of fans will enjoy the nostalgic trip
back almost 50-years - certainly appropriate as the opening of a rainy Friday
night Double Bill.
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**Jonathan Demme's "The Silence
of the Lambs" 4K UHD** - Jodie Foster / Anthony Hopkins @KinoLorber
US:
https://amzn.to/3AKZWKJ
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/jonathan-demmes-56759084
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film10/blu-ray_review_159/the_silence_of_the_lambs_4K_UHD.htm
COMMENTS: Kino's 4K UHD release of Jonathan Demme's "The Silence of the Lambs"
is a must-own for fans of this film (which is a formidable-ly large group.) As
we are seeing frequently, it is hard to get the 4K UHD screen captures give
justice to the impeccable image filled with consistent grain and wonderful
sharpness. We've done our best - trust me - this is a spectacular package - a
brilliant 3840 X 2160 resolution image, Tim Lucas commentary, extensive extras
on the second disc Blu-ray (with its own strong image) and impressive
poster-related cover and slipcase. It has our highest recommendation. A huge
keeper for me. New adopters shouldn't hesitate for a moment. This one and John
Carpenter's "The Thing" in 4K UHD are two of my favorite viewing so far this
year.
____________________________
**Francesco Rosi's "Illustrious
Corpses"** Blu-ray - Lino Ventura @KinoLorber
US:
https://amzn.to/3urinSs
CAN: https://amzn.to/3kNhxMm
BONUS CAPTURES:
https://www.patreon.com/posts/francesco-rosis-56715022
OUR REVIEW:
http://www.dvdbeaver.com/film10/blu-ray_review_159/illustrious_corpses_blu-ray.htm
COMMENTS: Francesco Rosi's Illustrious Corpses has a brilliant measured build.
It circles around political corruptions and the mystery of the, vendetta-like,
murdered judges. In 2008, the film was selected to enter the list of the 100
Italian films to be saved. Ventura is great as the methodical, stalwart, careful
cop. This is an excellent crime-thriller. With the Cox commentary the Kino
Blu-ray is strongly recommended despite our reservations on the restoration.
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http://www.dvdbeaver.com