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

ADDITION: Imprint Blu-ray (November 2020): Australian label Via Vision continue their new 'Imprint' collection of Blu-ray releases, here showcasing the cult classic "The Day of the Locust '' in its worldwide Blu-ray premiere (and Region 'Free'!) The nearly 2.5-hour film is housed on a dual-layered Blu-ray disc and features a high bitrate. The only notes on this transfer say that it is a 1080p presentation, not sure if this is from the original negative or a 4K transfer but I would be surprised. As Kat Ellinger notes in her superb commentary, John Schlesinger intended the image to be "sheeny, not glossy. (wanted the color to be very well controlled)". The muted palette is on display here and detail is not crisp. There are, what appear to be, artifacts and this may be why the film hasn't been released until now. The film was shot on Technicolor 35mm, though grain seems to be thick and inconsistent from frame to frame. There are occasional instances of minor damage or speckles, though it is not too distracting. It is a shame that the image isn't stronger here, though fans should be glad to finally have this film on Blu-ray. See our expanded captures for a representation of the HD appearance. It's not great.

We are given two audio options to accompany the film, either a 24-bit DTS-HD Master audio in 5.1 surround, or a linear PCM 2.0 stereo track. While the surround contains some moderate and subtle surround effects, I prefer the film in its original 2.0 audio format. The score is thanks to the iconic John Barry (The Whisperers, Boom, Deadfall, The Chase, Midnight Cowboy, Dances With Wolves, Inside Moves and the Bond themes among his many credits.)  There are optional English (SDH) subtitles on this Region 'Free' Blu-ray from Imprint.

Imprint starts off the extras with an all new commentary from Kat Ellinger. Ellinger discusses "The Day of the Locust'''s negative box office reception, and subsequent cult status. Ellinger's theory is that 1975 audiences weren't ready for this type of Hollywood expose, more akin to Kenneth Anger's 'Hollywood Babylon' than the sort of ubiquitous glossy, surface-level utopian depictions. The film historian goes on to speak of the film's gothic themes, as well as the various A-level talent involved. I was particularly amused at a story of Schlesinger screening Bertolucci's "The Conformist" for his cinematographer before shooting. Ellinger also mentions the film's various similarities and differences to the source novel. Speaking of the source novel, “Kim Newman on The Day of the Locust'' is a 20-minute piece with critic Newman, discussing the writings of Nathaniel West (in Hollywood and elsewhere). Newman goes on to discuss more aspects of the film, and I recommend watching more as his interviews are always worth checking out. Also new here is a 22-minute interview with the film's star William Atherton. Director Schlesinger had a knack for discovering unknown talent, and Atherton is no exception. There is also a limited edition slipcase with unique artwork on the first 1500 copies. Inside the slipcase is a clamshell case with reversible artwork.

Fans of "The Day of the Locust" can finally enjoy the film on Blu-ray thanks to Australian label Via Vision (Imprint). It's the extras make this very appealing, with yet another stellar commentary from Kat Ellinger, as well as an informative and well-produced piece with Kim Newman, not to mention that interview with Atherton. While the Blu-ray image is less effectual in this format, it is really a function of the available, and utilized, source as well as the filmmaker's preference. Not everything transfers well to Blu-ray. The linear PCM stereo audio, however, is appreciated. Recommended on the strength of the film, itself, and the wonderful supplements.

Colin Zavitz