Welcome to another look at highlights arriving on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and DVD. This is a remarkably busy edition, with a ton of new films arriving in a wide variety of genres, as well as older films receiving high-definition upgrades. So, if you can’t make it out to the movies this week, be sure to give one of these titles a try!
BIG NEW RELEASES!
AJ GOES TO THE DOG PARK – An average guy living in Fargo, North Dakota enjoys spending his spare time in a dog park with his pets. One day, he learns the city is going to shut the area down. The man reacts intensely to the news and does everything he can to prevent its closure, leading to various complications in his personal and professional life. This very low-budget independent title received decent reviews from festival screenings. A small number noted that the concept wasn’t really deep enough to justify a full-length feature and that it suffered from technical issues common to homemade pictures. However, the majority were amused, stating that it was sweet, silly and ambitious, winning them over and impressing them with its wacky, high-energy exploits. It features AJ Thompson, Greg Carlson and Danny Davy.
ANEMONE – A man leaves home in Northern England and sets out to find his recluse brother. He eventually finds his sibling living in a shack and attempts to convince him to return home to his family. As the two talk, viewers learn the man is a veteran who served in Northern Ireland and endured a traumatic event. The pair share dark secrets with each other as they attempt to reconcile the past. The press was split over this heavy drama from the UK. Almost half found it a slow and dreary slog, claiming it was difficult to connect to these brooding characters. But slightly more believed that those who could bear with the grim story would be treated to fantastic performances that would leave a lasting impression. This feature is available in a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray set or as a standalone Blu-ray. The cast includes Daniel Day-Lewis, Sean Bean, Samuel Bottomley and Samantha Morton.
BONE LAKE – In this indie chiller, a couple rent a lakeside house for a quiet, relaxing weekend. When they arrive, they meet another couple who claim to also have rented the site. After talking it out, they all decide to share the place. But it isn’t long after unpacking that the protagonists find the other couple acting strangely, playing disturbing tricks and manipulating them. The leads become concerned after discovering that several people have recently disappeared in the area. Reaction towards the feature was generally positive. A small number complained that they were tired of seeing horror pictures set around Airbnb rentals and that there was nothing memorable about this effort. Yet the majority thought that the characters were more developed than anticipated and that the unsettling events in the story were tense and compelling. Maddie Hasson, Marco Pigossi, Alex Roe and Andra Nechita headline the film.
BRUTE 1976 – Here is another independent genre feature. It is set in the late 1970s and follows a group of people heading out to the desert for a photo shoot. As they wander deeper into the dusty landscape, they find a ghost town they think will make the perfect shooting location.. But, as it turns out, a family of masked psychopaths have squatted there and set out to murder the new arrivals. So far, only a handful of reviewers have seen the picture and response was divided. Half called it a dreary knock-off of 70s horror films that just made them want to watch an older genre title. They felt the cast, editing and just about everything else didn’t work. The same number appreciated the movie’s nods to the earlier timeframe and thought it delivered some effectively grimy and disturbing shocks. It stars Sarah French, Adriane McLean, Gigi Gustin, Dazelle Yvettte and Adam Bucci.
THE CONJURING: LAST RITES – If you’re looking for big budget studio horror, the latest and supposedly last entry in this long-running series is also an option. This tale involves Ed and Lorraine Warren, a husband-and-wife paranormal investigation team, looking into an antique mirror that may not only be possessed by an evil force, but also have a personal connection to them. Things become more problematic when Ed’s weak heart begins giving out. This effort was a box office hit and received more upbeat notices than negative ones. About forty percent of critics noted that the film was overlong and predictable, failing to match the original. Still, the majority claimed that it was an improvement over the previous installment, delivering good performances and enough jolts to earn it a recommendation. You can purchase the film on 4K Ultra HD only, as a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray Steelbook, in a Blu-ray only release, and in a 4-Film Collection Blu-ray set. The cast includes Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, Mia Tomlinson and Ben Hardy.
COYOTES – This independent genre flick combines humor and horror. Set in the Hollywood hills, a family learns that a raging wildfire is approaching their home. If that wasn’t bad enough, a pack of hungry coyotes arrives at the door ready to tear them apart. The leads have to survive the wild animal attacks and figure a way past the blaze in order to survive. Reaction was divided for this picture, although slightly more reviewers gave the movie a pass. Close to half commented that the performances were fine, but that the story failed to generate much in the way of laughs, tension, or over-the-top shocks. Still, a slightly larger number believed the movie would work well for its intended audience, with charismatic leads, some grisly effects and a dose of dark humor. It features Justin Long, Kate Bosworth, Mila Harris, Brittany Allen and Norbert Leo Butz.
DESERT OF NAMIBIA – International cinema fans may appreciate this drama from Japan. A moody young salon employee is unhappy with the beauty standards placed upon young women. She manages to land a new boyfriend, but her erratic behavior, which includes wild and extreme swings of despair, happiness, anger and violence, threaten both the relationship and her employment. A small number of reviewers have seen this effort, but they rated it highly. One write-up got tired of all the sudden and unexpected behaviors and lost interest in the fate of the protagonist. However, everyone else wrote that the picture dealt with a complex character’s psychological issues in interesting ways, suggesting this film would help viewers understand what might be going through the mind of a person suffering from this condition. Yuumi Kawa and Daichi Kaneko headline the picture.
ELEANOR THE GREAT – A 94-year-old’s best friend and roommate passes away. She is forced to pack up from her Florida home and move in with her daughter’s family in New York. To try and meet new people, the senior visits a community center and decides to gain attention by passing on her late friend’s experiences as a holocaust survivor as her own. This leads to a scandal, but in the process the woman manages to befriend a 19-year-old student. This drama is notable as the directorial debut of actress Scarlett Johansson. Overall, reaction to the feature was positive. About one-third of the press liked the cast members but called the screenplay overly sentimental and felt that it didn’t delve deeply enough into its themes. Regardless, most were engaged by the story, stating that it dealt with grief effectively and had an emotional impact on the viewer. It stars June Squib, Erin Kellyman, Jessica Hecht, Chiwetel Ejiofor and Rita Zohar.
GABBY’S DOLLHOUSE: THE MOVIE – The popular children’s Netflix series gets a live-action/animated feature film in this tale that finds the main character going on a road trip with her grandmother. When her magical dollhouse is lost, the protagonist learns that a wealthy toy collector/cat lady has taken it to her mansion. Gabby searches the city trying to find the eccentric woman’s house, while her friends attempt to navigate their way out of the spacious estate and find their human friend. Notices were very good for this kid’s feature. A small number complained that the film was tediously positive and wouldn’t work for anyone who wasn’t already a part of the show’s fanbase. Still, the majority commented that the picture would offer inspiration to little ones and a positive outlook. They also felt that the adult cast added a few laughs for parents. The cast includes Laila Lockhart Kraner, Gloria Estefan, Kristin Wiig and the voices of Jason Mantzoukas, Tara Strong, Fortune Feimster, Thomas Lennon and Kyle Mooney. Read a full review of the movie right here.
HOT SPRING SHARK ATTACK – For those who appreciate ultra-low-budget cheeseball films involving killer sharks, you have a new title coming your way. Also known simply as Hotspring Sharkattack, his Japanese comedy follows visitors who start disappearing while at a hot spring resort. The town mayor, a marine biologist, and a grizzled cop discover that there is a new breed of shark that can not only survive in freshwater, but squeeze through narrow waterways. The group tries to stop the menace before more tourists perish. More reviewers enjoyed this picture than disliked it. About one-third stated that the cliched story, intentionally bad jokes and effects wore out their welcome quickly. However, most thought the film was poking fun at the subgenre’s tropes, resulting in an entertainingly ludicrous and surreal movie experience. And if you like this one, rest assured a sequel is already in production. The movie features Daniel Aguilar, Shôichirô Akaboshi and Takuya Fujimura.
I LOVE YOU FOREVER – This indie rom-com involves a 25-year-old law student trying to navigate her way through the dating scene. After a series of hookups and noncommittal relationships, she meets a young journalist whom she feels a deep connection to. It all starts off wonderfully, but when cracks begin to show in the relationship, the lead is forced to reevaluate the situation. In doing so, she must ask herself if she is the problem, or if the modern dating scene is to blame. Generally, reaction towards the feature was good. A small number of critics found the characterizations vapid and didn’t think it displayed toxic relationships in a believable or even darkly funny manner. Still, the majority were impressed by the dialogue, performances and observations about the dating scene. A few also complimented the story’s unpredictability, which kept them on edge. Sofia Black-D’Elia, Ray Nicholson, Jon Rudnitsky and Oliver Cooper headline the film.
THE LONG WALK – The latest Stephen King film adaptation is based on an early book from the author written under pen name Richard Bachman. In this tale, the country has been taken over by a totalitarian government, leaving most of the country poor. A televised competition is developed to inspire the nation. In it, a young male from every state participates in a walk for incredible riches. But, whenever one of them moves at less than 3 miles per hour or can’t go on, they are shot dead. The last person left walking wins. Viewers follow a group of competitors in this horrific challenge. This dark drama earned excellent reviews. A tiny contingent found the picture so depressing and hopeless that they couldn’t recommend it. However, everyone else was deeply impressed by the work of the cast and the characterizations. They found the movie both shocking and powerful. It can be purchased as a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray Amazon exclusive Steelbook or as a standalone Blu-ray. It stars Cooper Hoffman, David Jonnson, Garrett Wareing, Tut Nyot, Charlie Plummer, Ben Wang, Jordan Gonzalez, Joshua Odjick, Mark Hamill and Judy Greer. Want to know more? Read all about the movie here.
LOOKING THROUGH WATER – This tale involves an older man sharing an important story with his grandkids. Many years earlier, the speaker was a busy business executive. But following a major embarrassment at an award ceremony, the man is contacted by his estranged father. He is asked to join his dad in a fishing competition taking place in the country of Belize. They compete together and try to repair their strained relationship. Response was upbeat towards this family drama. A limited contingent critiqued the movie for being a predictable father-son drama that didn’t offer anything new, and at times even contradicted the message it was attempting to relay. However, the vast majority stated that the film was fluffy but enjoyable, thanks to an excellent cast and its kind-heartedness. A few even compared it to the Oscar-winner On Golden Pond. The cast includes Michael Douglas, David Morse, Walker Scobell, Tamara Tunie, Asher Goodman, Barry Livingston and Michael Shahl-David.
LURKER – A shop employee meets a rising music star in this independent feature. The artist invites the worker to see him perform in concert. Before long, the worker finds his way into the performer’s entourage. He makes himself useful by shooting videos of the musician. But after an altercation, the lead is pushed away. Things become obsessive as the character tries to force his way back into the inner circle. This picture sounds like the recent title Friendship, but is presented as a serious drama. Reaction towards the movie was strong. A few reviewers thought it was repetitive and didn’t think it had much new to say about characters who crave attention and celebrity culture. Still, the consensus was that the movie was effectively disturbing and took the necessary time to develop the problems inherent in a relationship between a famous individual and a fan. It features Théodore Pellerin, Archie Madekwe and Sunny Suljic.
MONK IN PIECES – Composer performer, director and more Meredith Monk is the subject of this documentary. Beginning in the 1960s, she challenged norms in theater and created multi-disciplinary works combining numerous different elements including music, theater and dance. The film tells her life story and catches up with her today in her early 80s while undertaking her latest production. The picture wasn’t seen by a large number of press members, but was well-received by those who did catch it. One reviewer commented that jumping between the subject’s past and current work left a lot of gaps. So, they didn’t really learn as much about the artist as they would have liked to. But all others commented that this was a welcome and enjoyable tribute to a legendary experimental artist that helps viewers understand not only how important Monk was in the art world, but still is.
THE OLD WOMAN WITH THE KNIFE – This action picture from South Korea follows an aging assassin in her 60s and ready to retire from her profession. The woman prides herself on quietly taking down the worst of humanity with expert precision. She’s asked by her employers to train a new recruit before her final hit and, after some convincing, eventually agrees. The process of helping the youngster out actually sharpens her skills. But as it turns out, everything is not as it seems, leading to a showdown between unexpected parties. Responses were very positive towards this effort. One or two didn’t care for the story and thought that its focus on the minutiae of killing techniques wasn’t interesting. Yet the majority were impressed by the action sequences and thought this was a nifty spin on the hitman film with an engaging lead performance. Lee Hye-young, Shin Si-ah, Kim Sung-cheol and Yeon Woo-jin headline the film. This Blu-ray will only be available through Amazon.
PRIMITIVE WAR – A Green Beret platoon serving during the Vietnam War enters a remote valley in the jungle, only to be attacked by mysterious forces. A special unit is called in to investigate what happened and immediately get more than they bargained for. As it turns out, there are dinosaurs in this location who are very hungry and willing to eat anyone entering their territory. This horror/science-fiction/action picture from Australia earned a slightly more positive reaction than negative from critics. A large portion of reviewers did call it a low-budget Jurassic Park knock-off with corny dialogue and an overly serious tone. But more thought the filmmakers excelled with their limited resources and made a gory, action-packed B-movie with plenty of thrills that entertains just as much as its big budget competition. The film is available separately on 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray. It stars Ryan Kwanten, Tricia Helfer, Nicke Wechsler and Jeremy Piven.
THE ROSES – Back in 1989, the hit film The War of the Roses detailed a comically over-the-top and violent divorce between an upper-class couple. This reimagining of the story follows an English architect and an aspiring chef who decide to marry and move to America. After ten years, his career has progressed while she focuses on raising their two kids. When the situation reverses, their relationship begins to show cracks. This leads to unexpectedly severe acts and responses between the pair. This redo didn’t make as big of an impression as the original, but it still earned more praise than pans from the press. About one-third of write-ups commented that this version lacked the original’s bite and found the tone off, stating it was difficult to endure all the ill-tempered yelling between the leads. Regardless, more thought that the cast were so convincing and sharp that their work earned plenty of laughs and made the feature a dark delight. The cast includes Benedict Cumberbatch, Olivia Colman, Andy Samberg, Allison Janney, Sunita Mani, Ncuti Gatwa, Jamie Demetriou and Kate McKinnon.
SOMNIUM – A young woman desperately looking for work agrees to try out a most unusual job at a sleep clinic. She is asked to be a “sleep-sitter” and spend evening hours looking after patients staying at the facility. Soon, the protagonist begins seeing terrifying and dangerous things in the building and begins to believe that the purpose of the clinic is to manifest dreams (as well as nightmares) into reality. This indie chiller was well-received by the press. A handful complained that the movie focused too much on melodrama instead of horror and didn’t deliver enough of either to leave a lasting impression. Still, most found the concept creepy and appreciated the moody and atmospherics on display. They were also impressed with the lead performance and thought the film made a lasting impression. It features Chloë Levine, Will Peltz and Peter Vack.
XENO – A lonely teenager living with her mom in the desert sees something resembling a meteor crash near her home. She investigates, only to find a large alien creature. Despite the thing having an intimidating appearance, the youth attempts befriending the lifeform. They form a close bond, and when government agents arrive to hunt the alien down and kill it, the lead decides to help the creature escape. This indie science-fiction adventure film received decent write-ups. A small number described the film as derivative and thought that the ending fell flat. Yet everyone else was pleasantly surprised by the feature. They thought it did a good job of developing the relationship between the lead and the alien, while noting that the excellent lead performance allowed the movie to effectively tackle dark subjects and heartwarming elements. Lulu Wilson, Omari Hardwick, Trae Romano and Paul Schneider headline the film.
BLASTS FROM THE PAST!
As mentioned, it’s a busy edition for older titles as well. 88 Films is releasing a Blu-ray of the Hong Kong film The Cat (1991). It’s about a young girl and a writer who encounter an alien that has taken the form of a black feline. They go on a strange and bizarre adventure to save the Earth from a creature possessing humans. This is the “Standard Edition” Blu-ray of the film that comes with a 2K picture restoration taken from the original negative, a film critic commentary, a program on the title, and an image gallery.
The distributor is also presenting the Italian erotic feature Eleven Days, Eleven Nights 2 (1991) as a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray combo pack and a standalone Blu-ray. After an elderly man passes away, he leaves his estate in the hands of his young lover. She ends up sleeping with most of the family to determine how to split the estate. You’ll get a 4K restoration of the film from the original camera negative presented in Dolby Vision, a film expert commentary, interviews with the dubbing director, the composer and an interview with a music historian, and a booklet with essays on the film
Red Surf (1989) is arriving on Blu-ray from Blue Fox. This effort is about a pair of surfers who try drug running to make ends meet. When they attempt one final score, things go wrong and they must escape with their lives. The film is noteworthy for its cast, which includes a young George Clooney as one of the leads, Doug Savant, Dedee Pfeiffer and Gene Simmons.
The French horror/comedy Some Like It Rare (2021) is being put out by Brainstorm Media. It’s about a couple who run a butcher shop and start selling human cutlets to customers, who compliment them on the product. The disc comes with a behind-the-scenes featurette and a booklet with an essay on the movie.
A Hyena in the Safe (1968) is an Italian heist movie and giallo thriller rolled into one. The story follows diamond thieves who pull off a big score. But before the members can collect, they start being murdered by a mysterious figure. Celluloid Dreams is releasing this Blu-ray. In addition to the feature, the disc features a film expert commentary, a video essay, promo materials and more.
Cinematographe is putting out a “Standard Edition” Blu-ray of The Woman Chaser (1999), an indie period comedy with Partick Warburton as a shady used car salesman who writes a film screenplay and struggles to get it produced. The disc features a 2K restoration of the film, a full-length alternate cut that is presented in color (instead of black and white), a writer/director commentary, a film expert commentary, a new interview with Warburton, a discussion with the producer, a trailer and essays on the feature.
Criterion is presenting a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray combo of Stanley Kubrick’s final film, Eyes Wide Shut (1999) 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray. Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman play a couple going through marital problems. The husband goes out one night and witnesses what goes on in New York’s sexual underworld. This set boasts a 4K restoration supervised by the director of photography and presented in Dolby Vision, new discussions with the cinematographer, second unit director and a Kubrick archivist, an archival interview with director Stanley Kubrick’s wife, and a documentary featuring talks with the film’s producer, as well as Kubrick’s daughter and Kubrick’s personal assistant. Additionally, there’s a featurette on the filmmaker’s unfinished projects, a remembrance piece on the director featuring cast members and Steven Spielberg, press conferences for the feature, a speech from Kubrick at the 1998 Director’s Guild, teasers and trailers, and writing on the picture. A Blu-ray only version of the title is also available.
The Japanese coming-of-age film The Island Closest to Heaven (1984) is coming from Cult Epics. The Blu-ray features a 2K transfer and restoration, a film critic commentary, visual essay on the feature, a making-of, trailers, reversible sleeve with original Japanese poster art, and a reproduction of a 24-page booklet on the picture.
The Demon’s Rook (2013) is an ultra-low budget indie horror picture that is being made available from Dekanalog. It is described as a homage to 80s creature features and Lucio Fulci flicks featuring some rampaging demons. The Blu-ray features a new image restoration, a filmmaker and producer commentary, an archival director commentary, deleted scenes, a gag reel, a short film from the director, a music video, trailer, behind-the-scenes gallery, concept art, premiere footage from the Fantasia Film Festival and a booklet essay.
Those who enjoy the work of Takashi Miike (Audition, Ichi the Killer) can pick up a Blu-ray of The Happiness of the Katakuris (2001) courtesy of Discotek Media. This is a lighter, more surreal effort from the filmmaker that features a family running a hotel in which their guests frequently die. The movie is also a musical. The distributor promises a whole chorus of special features on the disc.
Film Movement is presenting the Dutch dark comedy The Columnist (2019) on Blu-ray. It follows a frustrated newspaper columnist who starts turning against readers making abusive comments about her writing and begins to murder them. It arrives with an introduction by a film programmer and a trailer.
The distributor is also releasing a Blu-ray of Roh (2019), a Malaysian chiller about a family who take in a suspicious young woman whom they find covered in clay. It comes with a making-of and trailers.
Icarus Films is putting out a Blu-ray of Lady Chatterley’s Lover (1955), a French adaptation of the famous D.H. Lawrence novel. The distributor states that this is the first adaptation of the source material and that, while it isn’t shocking today, was considered scandalous during its original release. In fact, it was banned in the US, before the Supreme Court overturned the ruling. Specs include a 2K image restoration, and a booklet with an essay on the movie.
Berberian Sound Studio (2012) is being rereleased on Blu-ray from IFC Films. This version should be identical to the 2012 Blu-ray release, with all the old extras like a director commentary, interviews, a making of, deleted scenes, a documentary on the film, promo materials and more. Also included is a new film historian commentary.
The studio is also making the Larry Fessenden horror movie Depraved (2019) available as a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray set. This effort is about a field surgeon in Brooklyn living with PTSD who tries to make a man out of body parts. Besides the 4K picture upgrade, the release contains a new commentary with Fessenden, a film historian commentary, a feature-length documentary on the production, archival cast and crew interviews and featurettes, as well as a trailer and a booklet with writing on the title.
It’s a big week for Kino, especially if you have 4K Ultra HD capabilities and enjoy classic Abbott and Costello comedies featuring Universal monsters. Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948) is arriving as a 4K Ultra HD only release. The comedians play railroad baggage clerks on a train with Frankenstein and the Monster, as well as Dracula and the Wolf Man. This release boasts a 4K restoration of the film from the original camera negative presented in Dolby Vision, as well as three movie expert commentary tracks and a trailer.
In the 4K Ultra HD edition of Abbott and Costello Meet the Invisible Man (1951), the leads graduate from private detective school and try to prove the innocence of an accused murderer (the title suggests who the responsible party really is). Besides the 4K restoration from the original negative in Dolby Vision, this disc features two film historian commentary tracks and a trailer.
The exact same features and specs can be found on the 4K Ultra HD Abbott and Costello Meet Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1953). The leads end up in London and meet the mad doctor, who is played by none other than Boris Karloff.
Also arriving with all the same features is Abbott and Costello Meet the Mummy (1955) in 4K Ultra HD. This picture finds the pair stranded in Cairo, Egypt and meet an archeologist with an ancient mummy. After agreeing to chaperone the bandaged figure on its journey to America, they find themselves dealing with supernatural shenanigans.
For this film enthusiasts, one of the biggest releases of the week is the Alec Guiness: Masterpiece Collection, which contains 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray discs of the Ealing Films classics Kind Hearts and Coronets (1949), The Lavender Hill Mob (1951), The Man in the White Suit (1951) and The Ladykillers (1955). These incredible comedies are considered some of the greatest ever made, and feature supporting performances from the likes of Peter Sellers, Herbert Lom and many others. They’re all winders, with the third film in the set being a personal favorite. You’ll get 4K restorations of all the titles presented in Dolby Vision, as well as film historian commentaries and a Blu-ray disc filled with bonus features and intros to the movies from filmmakers like John Landis, Martin Scorsese and Stephen Frears.
Those looking for something on a different note can now pick up a “Special Edition” Blu-ray of the sword and sorcery effort The Barbarians (1987), starring, appropriately enough, wrestlers the Barbarian Brothers as the heroes trying to rescue a kidnapped queen. The film has been given a new 2K master and features a film critic commentary and a trailer.
The gloriously ridiculous Death Wish 3 was recently released as a 4K Ultra HD/Blu-ray combo pack by Kino. But, if you’d prefer to own the entire series exclusively on Blu-ray, you can also do so with The Death Wish Collection that contains the original Death Wish (1974), and the sequels Death Wish II (1982), Death Wish 3 (1985), Death Wish 4: The Crackdown (1987) and Death Wish V: The Face of Death (1994). Expect extras to be identical to previous editions.
French Noir Collection II Blu-ray set is another multi-movie collection containing Rhine Virgin (1953), The Beast is Loose (1959), Trapped by Fear (1960) and The Passion of Slow Fire (1961). This is a two-disc release with the film receiving either 4K or 2K restorations, film authority audio commentaries and trailers.
And Ilsa, Harem Keeper of the Oil Sheiks (1976) is arriving as a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray combo pack from the Kino Cult line. This is the second film in the Ilsa series, which the distributor promises is just as tasteless and politically incorrect as its predecessor. Besides the image upgrade, it comes with an archival director and cast commentary, a film historian audio track, interviews and a reel of alternate (less explicit) footage.
You can now purchase Hack-O-Lantern (1988) as a “Standard Edition” 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray combo from Massacre Video. In this indie horror film, a teenager whose parents were killed by a cult years ago is stalked by a masked and hooded figure. There is a 4K restoration from the original camera negative presented in HDR, a producer commentary, cast and crew interviews. Behind-the-scenes stills, an isolated score track and trailers included.
Paramount Pictures is rereleasing The Ten Commandments (1956) in a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray Steelbook, which originally came out five years ago and vanished from store shelves. Apparently, this edition is the same stunning 6K restoration and scan of the original VistaVision negative and comes with the same bonuses as in the earlier edition. The only thing different here is the packaging.
Dark Asylum (2001) is appearing on Blu-ray from Rising Sun Media. This potentially cheesy chiller, about a psychiatrist battling wits with a serial killer, features an impressive cast that includes Judd Nelson, Paulina Poriskova, Larry Drake and Jurgen Prochnow. The disc comes with trailers.
Severin Films is presenting the effective and disturbing drama The Boys Next Door (1985) in a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray set. This tale stars Charlie Sheen and Maxwell Caulfield as two disaffected LA teens who go on a murderous rampage across the city. The movie was very well received during its release. It was written by Glen Morgan and James Wong (The X-Files, Final Destination) and directed by Penelope Spheris (The Decline of the Western Civilization docs, as well as Wayne’s World). The 4K restoration was taken from the original camera negative, and extras include a commentary with Spheeris and Caulfield, numerous cast and crew interviews, an alternate opening title sequence and extended scenes (silent) and a trailer.
You can also pick up a Blu-ray of Dead Sleep (1990) from the distributor. It’s an Ozploitation feature starring Linda Blair as a nurse who discovers that the doctor she works with is responsible for the death of over 20 patients, and is more than willing to off anyone who testifies against him. The original studio negative has been given a 4K restoration by Studio Canal for this release. It features an interview with a historian detailing the real cast this film is loosely based on. A visual essay is also included, as is a trailer.
Skinheads (1993) aka Teste Rasate is also arriving on Blu-ray from Severin. It’s about a gang of Neo-Nazis terrorizing a community. This Italian shocker from director Claudio Fragasso (Monster Dog, Troll 2) has been difficult to find this title in this part of the world. There is a feature-length documentary included on the disc featuring interviews with cast and crew, as well as a trailer.
House of Darkness (2022) is a dark comedy and horror film arriving on Blu-ray from Shoreline Entertainment. Neil LaBute (In the Company of Men, Nurse Betty) directs this vampire tale starring Justin Long and Kate Bosworth.
Those who grew up in the 80s likely remember The Beastmaster (1982) as a VHS staple. Now, Shout Factory is delivering a “Collector’s Edition” 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray combo pack of the sword and sorcery feature. Marc Singer plays a warrior who can communicate with animals, who help him seek revenge on the high priest (played by Rip Torn) responsible for the death of his father. Besides the upgraded theatrical cut presented in 4K Ultra HD with Dolby Vision, you’ll receive a new and an archival commentary track with the director/co-writer Don Coscarelli (Phantasm) and the producer/co-writer, a six-part series looking back the making and legacy of the movie that features interviews with cast members and crew. Additionally, there is a version of the film (on Blu-ray) with updated visual effects that were supervised by the director, a saga of the Beastmaster featurette, Super 8mm home movies taken on the set with commentary from Coscarelli, outtakes, a still gallery, a trailer and more.
Shudder is presenting a “Standard Edition” Blu-ray of All the Moons (2020)., a Spanish fantasy/horror picture. It arrives on disc with a film scholar commentary and a booklet with essays on the feature. And Moloch (2022), a genre feature from the Netherlands, is being released on Blu-ray with a writer/director commentary, a deleted scene, FX video and still galleries, a trailer and a booklet with writing on the picture.
Irresistible (2006) is receiving a North American Blu-ray release from Umbrella Entertainment. This Australian thriller about a woman who becomes convinced her husband’s female co-worker is trying to win him away from her. It features Susan Sarandon, Sam Neill and Emily Blunt. The disc comes with a commentary with the writer/director and the producer, featurette on the shoot and interviews with cast and crew, as well as a trailer.
Universal Studios is giving the wonderful musical/comedy The Blues Brothers (1980) a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray Steelbook presentation. This hilarious flick starring Dan Ackroyd, John Belusi, Cab Calloway, James Brown, Aretha Franklin, Carrie Fisher, John Candy, Henry Gibson, John Lee Hooker, Ray Charles, Twiggy, Steven Spielberg and many more is a wild ride with amazing gags, stunts and musical numbers. The 4K quality is excellent and those picking it up should expect the disc contents to be the same as in previous versions, only in Steelbook packaging.
The same is true for the well-regarded adaptation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice (2005) starring Keira Knightley. You can pick up either a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray combo or a “Limited Edition” 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray Digibook of the title.
Since Thanksgiving is this week, that means Vinegar Syndrome is putting out new titles on their site as exclusives, and offering Black Friday discounts on older releases.
One of the new titles arriving is a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray combo of At Close Range (1986) which is co-release with Cinematographe that will be a site exclusive. The drama stars Sean Penn, Christopher Walken and Chris Penn. The story follows two brothers navigating life with a criminal father. You’ll get a 4K restoration of the movie from the original camera negative presented in Dolby Vision, along with a new film historian commentary. Additionally, there is a 2015 commentary with the film’s director, James Foley (Glengary Glen Ross, The Corruptor), new interviews on the movie with Walken, Sean Penn and crew members. You’ll also get archival cast and crew discussions on the film, an archival interview with a reporter familiar with the real story this picture is based on, a video of locations, a trailer, and text essays on the feature.
If you prefer something adult-oriented, Behind the Green Door (1972) is available as a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray with CD set. Additionally, there is a Blu-ray box set from Vinegar Syndrome called The Films of Hisayasu Satô: Volume Two, including several titles from the Japanese filmmaker.
Another major title from the distributor is the notorious gross-out comedy The Garbage Pail Kids Movie (1987), which is debuting as a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray combo. Based on the actual trading card series parodying Cabbage Patch Kids dolls, this picture featured nasty doll-like figures with disgusting habits who are assisted by a young boy. It’s a pretty terrible film, but has developed a significant cult following over the years. Once again, the original camera negative has been restored, scanned in 4K and is being presented in Dolby Vision. There’s an audio commentary with the stars of the picture, new interviews with cast and crew, a featurette on the make-up effects, archival interviews with cast crew, and a trailer. You’ll also get a 40-page book with essays on the movie and a reversible sleeve. Head over to the Vinegar Syndrome site to pick it up.
The Man Who Could Cheat Death (1959) is a stronger effort that is also getting a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray release. Anton Diffring plays a scientist who learns how to live forever. The catch is he must kidnap and secrete glands from young, healthy people to do so. The film has been given a 4K restoration from the original camera negative and is presented in Dolby Vision. You’ll get both the uncut version and a continental edition in the highest format, along with a new film historian commentary. And, film experts discuss the filmmaker and cast. There is also a talk with the movie’s uncredited third assistant director, an alternate censored ending and a 40-page book included.
The same picture specs are present on the 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray edition of Ruby (1977), a chiller in which a mobster returns from the grave by possessing his teenage daughter. This one arrives with a film historian commentary, a second movie expert track and an archival commentary including the director and co-star Piper Laurie. New interviews with co-stars and film critic Kim Newman are featured, as well as an alternate TV version of the film, promo materials and more.
The Blu-ray box set Shaw Scares Volume 1 contains some creepy Hong Kong horror films like Haunted Tales (1980), Hell Has No Boundary (1982) and Sex Beyond the Grave (1984). You can expect plenty of bonuses here as well.
The remake Sisters (2006) is arriving in a 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and CD package. The film didn’t make as big of an impression as Brian De Palma’s famous original, but does feature Chloe Sveigny and Stephen Rea in this story of separated Siamese twins involved in a murder. This release contains a new 4K master of the original camera negative, two audio commentaries with the director, deleted and extended scenes, an archival making of, and trailers.
Sleepless (2001) is one of the better efforts of this era in the career of Italian giallo maestro Dario Argento (Deep Red, Suspiria). It’s a mystery about a psychopath gruesomely murdering victims in a frightening manner similar to a crime that occurred 17 years earlier. The picture co-star Max Von Sydow and was shot by Oscar-winner Ronnie Taylor (Barry Lyndon, Gandhi, Sea of Love, Opera), which means it has some standout visuals, including the opening sequence involving a pursuit on a train. This 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray upgrade of the feature includes a 4K restoration from the original camera negative presented in Dolby Vision, as well as a film historian commentary, as well as a couple of hours of interview with cast and crew.
Timecrimes (2007) is a fun Spanish science-fiction chiller that is also getting a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray release. It follows a man who sees a strange and disturbing figure in his backyard, decides to investigate the incident, and ends up traveling through time. If memory serves, it’s quite tense and thrilling. For this release, the film has been given a new 4K remaster and is presented in Dolby Vision. It comes with a ton of extras like cast and crew interviews, a video essay, archival featurettes and more.
And the 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray combo of Troma Entertainment’s Tromeo & Juliet (1996) also includes a 4K restoration of the film from the camera negative presented in Dolby Vision, multiple commentary tracks with director Lloyd Kaufman and co-writer James Gunn (yes, that James Gunn), and hours of other bonuses.
YOU KNOW, FOR KIDS!
Alas, there isn’t much for kids this week. But there will be plenty to come in upcoming editions.
ON THE TUBE!
It appears that the studios are focused on features this time out, but that will all change in the near future.
