Massacre in Dinosaur Valley Blu-ray Review

Presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1, encoded with MPEG-4 AVC and granted a 1080p transfer, "Massacre in Dinosaur Valley" arrives on Blu-ray courtesy of Severin Films. This release utilizes a newly restored 4K master, distinct from the previously reviewed European release which employed a 2K master. Notably, the 4K master offers an uncut version of the film adding approximately two additional minutes of content. This variant exhibits different grading, moderating yellowish/greenish hues while enhancing reds and whites, leading to a mixed visual experience. Despite the 4K master presenting more natural and pleasing areas, saturation levels are better maintained in the 2K master, suggesting the former's occasional 'neutral mode' color tone.

Additionally, the 4K restoration reveals some imperfections. Certain newly included footage exhibits density fluctuations unrelated to stylistic choices, while dings, marks, and surface imperfections are noticeably present and could have benefitted from digital correction. The encoding also appears suboptimal; grain structure is loose, especially in darker scenes where it manifests as noisy. Contrarily, the European 2K release displays a tighter grain structure. However, image stability across both masters performs commendably.

Severin Films' Region-Free Blu-ray of "Massacre in Dinosaur Valley" promises broader accessibility. Overall, while the 4K master could have been its most definitive edition, its small drawbacks occasionally render it inferior to the earlier 2K version. Technically, this serves as an informative case on the nuanced balances between different restoration and mastering processes.

The Blu-ray release of "Massacre in Dinosaur Valley" features two standard audio tracks: English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 and Italian DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0, with optional English and English SDH subtitles. Both tracks exhibit characteristic attributes pertinent to the era and budget of the film production. The English track, considered the 'original' audio, delivers a clear and precise dialogue, although minor unevenness in audio levels is still noticeable. The rock and roll score, along with sound effects, are adequately represented with commendable dynamic intensity, particularly during action scenes like the helicopter emergence towards the film's conclusion.

Compared to the English audio, the Italian track plays slightly louder but maintains a similar level of clarity and precision in dialogue delivery. However, it should be noted that the dubbing on both tracks shows noticeable looseness against the film's visuals. This issue reflects the limitations of the original production rather than any shortcomings in the Blu-ray's audio presentation. Despite this, both tracks serve their purpose well within the context of delivering the film's atmosphere and maintaining its authenticity. Technical enhancements might have improved balance adjustments, yet such efforts were likely constrained due to the extensive restoration they would require.

The Blu-Ray release of "Massacre in Dinosaur Valley" offers an impressive array of extras that provide valuable context and depth to this cult classic. Notably, "Valley Boy" features Michael Sopkiw reflecting on his acting career and involvement with the film, while "Lost in Brazil" includes insightful commentary from co-writer Dardano Sacchetti about his scripting process and filming experiences in Brazil. The deleted and extended scenes provide additional narrative elements, albeit with mostly silent footage. These features, alongside the original Italian credits and a reversible cover with vintage poster art, contribute to a comprehensive and engaging look behind the scenes.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: Remastered vintage international trailer.
• Deleted and Extended Scenes Reel One: Restored scenes with occasional English audio.
• Deleted and Extended Scenes Reel Two: Restored scenes with Italian audio and optional English subtitles.
• Valley Boy: Michael Sopkiw discusses his acting career and the film.
• Lost in Brazil: Dardano Sacchetti on writing and filming in Brazil.
• Italian Credits: Original Italian opening and closing credits.
• Reversible Cover: Vintage poster art.

Michele Massimo Tarantini’s "Massacre in Dinosaur Valley" (1985), newly released by Severin Films on Blu-ray, epitomizes the wildly eclectic Italian genre films of the '80s. Headlined by the dashing Michael Sopkiw as Kevin Hall, the film plunges viewers into a chaotic amalgamation of action, adventure, horror, and sex comedy. The plot sees Hall navigating the treacherous Amazon jungle, accompanied by a motley crew of over-the-top characters, including a Vietnam vet, his disgruntled wife, and two scantily clad models. The narrative is driven by a blend of sleaze, humor, and unpredictability, resulting in a rollercoaster of unexpected events and consistently absurd developments.

Tarantini's direction ensures that no genre is left untouched, with elements of cannibal horror and outrageous adult entertainment woven together seamlessly. The film's tone oscillates between grotesquely excessive and charmingly humorous, making it an enjoyably unpredictable viewing experience. Notably, the soundtrack stands out with electrifying synthesizer and guitar solos reminiscent of Giorgio Moroder’s best work, adding another layer to the chaotic charm of the movie. Just when the narrative appears to settle, it pivots dramatically, keeping the audience perpetually guessing.

This Blu-ray release is particularly noteworthy for its technical improvements. Sourced from a new 4K master struck from the original camera negative, this version surpasses previous iterations, such as the 2K master from British distributors 88 Films in 2017. The full uncut edition ensures that none of the film's wild spectacles are omitted. With a mix of English and Italian language tracks and English subtitles available, fans can appreciate all the film's nuanced absurdities. This release solidifies "Massacre in Dinosaur Valley" as a must-watch for connoisseurs of vintage Italian genre cinema.

Severin Films has delivered an impressive release of "Massacre in Dinosaur Valley," a film that teeters on the edge of chaos and delights in its own excess. Sourced from a meticulously restored 4K master and released fully uncut for the first time in America, this edition is a gem for genre enthusiasts. The movie, known for its wild plot and unrestrained energy, showcases Michael Sopkiw in his final acting role, reminding viewers of the charisma and potential that could have been realized further in his career.

Severin's package is bolstered by insightful new interviews, including engaging conversations with star Michael Sopkiw and co-writer Dardano Sacchetti. These extras enrich the viewing experience and offer a deeper understanding of the film's background and production challenges. The attention to detail in these bonus features highlights Severin's commitment to providing value beyond the film itself, making it clear why they are appreciated by genre film aficionados.

In conclusion, I discovered "Massacre in Dinosaur Valley" after acquiring the British label 88 Films release a few years ago and found it hilariously unhinged. Severin's current release, with its superior 4K master and uncut format, along with exclusive and entertaining interviews, sets a high standard. While Severin’s encoding could benefit from some enhancements to match the impeccable work of Blue Underground and Synapse Films, this release is nonetheless an outstanding addition to any collection. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.