The Kiss of the Vampire Blu-ray Review

"The Kiss of the Vampire" is presented by Shout Factory with a fresh 4K scan of the interpositive, delivering an exceptional 1080p AVC encoded image. The default aspect ratio is 1.85:1, with a 1.66:1 option available in the Extras menu. The differences between the two aspect ratios are minimal, primarily pertaining to slight framing variations. This meticulous restoration ensures that the film's visual appeal is significantly enhanced, evident in its rich primary colors and strikingly natural skin tones. The vivid reds, blues, and greens stand out beautifully, maintaining the aesthetic heritage of a Hammer film. Details are exceptionally sharp, from facial features to period-specific costuming and set designs.

The film grain is fine and film-like, preserving the movie's authentic texture while providing clear delineation across frames. Black levels are generally robust and inky, albeit with occasional slips into gray or brown tones. This does little to distract from the impressive image depth. The transfer holds steady throughout, with just minor instances of speckling and scratches, bar an abrupt but brief loss of footage at approximately the 77:08 mark, which remains intact in the TV cut.

Overall, this Blu Ray release showcases "The Kiss of the Vampire" in near-pristine condition, celebrating its visual splendor with finely tuned colors and deeply embedded details. The source material has evidently been well-preserved, offering viewers a refreshing cinematic experience that respects both the film's horror heritage and its period setting.

"Kiss of the Vampire" is presented with a 2.0 DTS-HD MA sound mix that effectively ensures clear dialogue throughout the film. The mix captures the emotional intensity of performance choices without issue, allowing for seamless and heated emotional exchanges. While imaging and atmospherics remain somewhat restrained, the audio experience still offers noteworthy dimension, particularly towards the climactic scenes.

The score, composed by James Bernard, integrates well into the film, providing an evocative backdrop without overpowering other audio elements. It effortlessly weaves mild romantic themes with sharper horror stings, driving the mood transitions effectively. However, some viewers may notice occasional fuzziness during more intense musical passages. Sound effects are distinct and natural, enhancing scenes with clear horse-based travel sounds and chaotic bat-flying incidents.

Overall, the DTS-HD MA 2.0 mono mix is a commendable effort for "Kiss of the Vampire." Despite minor shortcomings in imaging and occasional fuzziness in the orchestral score, the dialogue clarity and atmospheric richness substantially support the immersive quality of this classic Hammer Film.

Scream Factory has truly outdone themselves with the array of bonus features available on this Blu-ray. The inclusion of multiple audio commentary tracks, tailored to different versions of the film, enriches the viewing experience significantly. Standout commentaries include the cast's nostalgic recollections and the insightful analyses by film historians. The assortment also features the U.S. television edit "Kiss of Evil," despite its suboptimal SD quality, providing an intriguing alternative perspective on the film. Richard Klemensen’s segments on Hammer veterans James Bernard and Bernard Robinson delve into their profound impact on the studio's legacy. Overall, this disc offers a comprehensive exploration of "The Kiss of the Vampire," appealing to both casual viewers and hardcore cinephiles.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary #1: Featuring Edward De Souza, Jennifer Daniel, and Peter Irving.
• Commentary #2: Featuring Steve Haberman and Constantine Nasr.
• Commentary #3: Featuring Troy Howarth and Nathaniel Thompson.
• Additional Scenes: From the 1966 NBC broadcast version.
• The Men Who Made Hammer: James Bernard: Hosted by Richard Klemensen.
• The Men Who Made Hammer: Bernard Robinson: Again, hosted by Richard Klemensen.
• Radio Spot: A single advertisement for The Kiss of the Vampire.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original movie trailer including the TV version.

"The Kiss of the Vampire," directed by Don Sharp and penned by Anthony Hinds, deviates from Hammer's accustomed Dracula narratives to deliver a more psychological horror experience. This 1963 classic substitutes relentless action with a slow-burn atmosphere, filled with eerie silences punctuated by sporadic moments of distress. Sharp’s direction, coupled with a capable cast, especially the newlyweds Gerald (Edward De Souza) and Marianne (Jennifer Daniel), conjures a forest of silent terrors that grip the viewer until the climactic conclusion. The film tactically withholds its more shocking elements, slowly building suspense and keeping the audience on edge.

Plot-wise, the movie centers on Gerald and Marianne, who find themselves in a secluded village after experiencing car troubles. Invited to Dr. Ravna's home, they unwittingly become embroiled in his sinister plans. Dr. Ravna (Noel Willman) charms with genteel hospitality, leading to his dark nature being gradually revealed. The lonely Professor Zimmer (Clifford Evans), first seen plunging a shovel into a vampire's coffin during a funeral, eventually becomes Gerald’s only ally in combating the unfolding vampiric threat. This balance between psychological malignancy and outright horror introduces a sense of foreboding that steadily escalates.

The narrative constructs are familiar, perhaps reminiscent of characters and tropes from other Hammer offerings but executed with enough twists to remain engaging. The Gaslight-inspired subplot, although brief, adds an interesting deviation as it attempts to convince Gerald of Marianne's non-existence. Despite predictable elements, the movie captivates through its well-paced screenplay and dramatic confrontations, culminating in a creatively devised conclusion. Although lacking Christopher Lee’s iconic presence, the film stands solid among Hammer’s Dracula-free ventures and promises an entertainingly chilling experience for horror aficionados.

The Kiss of the Vampire`` Blu-ray captures the quintessential gothic ambiance of this Hammer classic. Though it lacks the presence of Christopher Lee, the film stands strong with its compelling narrative and committed performances, which significantly elevate its atmospheric suspense and psychological intrigue. From the initial scenes, viewers are drawn into a world that masterfully blends horror and drama, sustained by commendable ensemble acting and meticulous production design. Visuals boast a notable clarity and depth, bringing out the rich color palette that is a hallmark of Hammer's distinctive style.

Scream Factory's Blu-ray release impresses not only with its audiovisual quality but also with an extensive collection of supplementary materials. The video transfer, characterized by its crispness and attention to detail, successfully preserves the film's original texture while enhancing its visual allure. The audio track delivers robust and immersive soundscapes that support the film’s eerie atmosphere and dramatic peaks. Among the notable inclusions in the bonus features are multiple audio commentaries and informative mini-documentaries, providing valuable insights into the film's production and legacy. The inclusion of "The Kiss of Evil" television version represents a significant addition for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

In conclusion, The Kiss of the Vampire goes a little overboard while trying to depict vampiric chaos, perhaps going the wrong way once a flurry of rubber bats enters the feature. Things get real silly, but the film doesn't open that way, providing introductory highlights and interesting character unrest, supported by fine performances from the ensemble, who push hard to introduce an intriguing level of mental gamesmanship before it comes time to unleash crappy props.