Re-Animator Blu-ray Review

Arrow Video's Blu-ray release of "Re-Animator" is presented in AVC encoded 1080p with a 1.78:1 aspect ratio, spanning two versions of the film on separate discs. Both the Unrated and Integral versions have undergone extensive restoration by TLEFilms FRPS, sourced from the original 35mm camera negative and interpositive elements. The film was scanned in 5K/4K resolution and color graded meticulously, ensuring a balanced and natural appearance. Despite the inherent softness noted in previous releases, this new transfer delivers enhanced fine detail, making both the gore-drenched special effects and more mundane elements like fabrics in costumes remarkably vivid. The palette maintains a slightly cooler tone compared to earlier releases, with particularly striking reds. The darker presentation remains consistent but natural, without sacrificing shadow details.

The digital restoration was rigorous, utilizing tools like Furnace, Combustion, and PF Clean to address dirt, scratches, torn frames, and lab-induced photochemical damage without introducing digital artifacts. The end result is a largely pristine viewing experience free of major age-related wear, though minor flaws such as brief scratches are occasionally noticeable. Grain is generally well-resolved, except for infrequent instances where it appears chunkier at the frame's top. Notably, the Unrated Version retains its quick pacing and intense focus on horror while the Integral Version integrates additional plotlines and character development, offering a richer narrative experience. Both soundtracks were restored from original 3-track master reels and enhanced with a multi-channel 5.1 mix by Tonmeister Jochen Dorn. Arrow Video's release stands as a definitive edition for fans, with no problematic compression issues detracting from the film's immersive quality.

The audio presentation of the Blu-ray release of "Re-Animator" is notably versatile, offering multiple options to cater to different preferences. For the Unrated Version, viewers can choose between LPCM Mono, LPCM 2.0, and DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. Meanwhile, the Integral Version is equipped with a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track. Notably, both surround tracks—though capable—show limited engagement of rear channels for discrete effects placement. Instead, the film's score tends to reside in these areas more consistently. Some may find the surround track only intermittently immersive, making the mono and stereo options potentially more appealing. The stereo track, in particular, offers a nicer spread of effects and score compared to mono while maintaining the fidelity across the board. Dialogue is rendered cleanly and is well-prioritized in all three audio choices.

Arrow Video's new 4K restorations for both versions of "Re-Animator" are of commendable quality, although the audio stands out in selective distinctiveness. Both LPCM 2.0 and 1.0 tracks offer a robust sonic performance, but the 2.0 format emerges as a more dynamic option compared to the somewhat flat and quiet mono track. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 tracks, while providing centered dialogue, tend to lack creative use of spatial dimensions, focusing more on widening the soundscape with limited definition in dialogue placement. In contrast, the stereo track balances these elements adeptly, rendering spatial activity and ambient effects with effective panning from left to right and right to left. Ultimately, this provides a more engaging auditory experience without unnecessary complexities from additional speakers. Optional English SDH subtitles are available, adding accessibility for all viewers.

In sum, the audio presentation of this Blu-ray release adeptly preserves clarity and spatial dynamics, offering various options that cater to personal preferences while maintaining a clean and immersive listening experience.

Arrow's Blu-ray release of "Re-Animator" delivers an impressive array of extras, skillfully blending newly created content with existing supplements. Notable inclusions are three comprehensive audio commentaries, with one fresh addition featuring Director Stuart Gordon alongside actors from "Re-Animator: The Musical". They provide insightful discussions on the film's production and legacy. The release also offers "Re-Animator: Resurrectus", a detailed documentary brimming with engaging interviews, enriching the viewer's understanding of the movie. Other highlights include a variety of featurettes, interviews, and engaging content like storyboard-to-screen comparisons. The compilation is further enriched by thoughtful elements such as extended and deleted scenes, a still gallery, and the original screenplay accessible via BD-ROM. This meticulous collection showcases the meticulous effort put into curating an exhaustive behind-the-scenes experience for fans and cinephiles alike.

Extras included in this disc:

• Isolated Score: Presented in DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1.
• New Audio Commentary: With Director Stuart Gordon and actors.
• Audio Commentary: With Stuart Gordon.
• Audio Commentary: With producer Brian Yuzna and main cast members.
• Re-Animator: Resurrectus: Informative making-of documentary.
• Interview with Stuart Gordon and Brian Yuzna: In-depth discussion.
• Interview with Dennis Paoli: Insightful conversation with the writer.
• Interview with Richard Band: Composer talks about the music.
• Interview with Tony Timpone: Views of Fangoria's editor.
• Music Discussion: Richard Band elaborates on the score.
• Barbara Crampton in Conversation: 2015 interview by Alan Jones.
• The Catastrophe of Success: Stuart Gordon's early stage career.
• Theater of Blood: Adapting Re-Animator for stage discussion.
• Extended Scenes: Additional footage.
• Deleted Scene: Excised material from the film.
• Multi Angle Storyboards: Three scenes showing storyboard-to-final comparison.
• Trailer: Original preview of the film.
• TV Spots: Promotional clips.
• Still Gallery: Slideshow of production stills.
• Screenplay: Accessible via a BD-ROM drive.

Disc Two supplements include:

• Integral Version: Extended version of the film.
• A Guide to Lovecraftian Cinema: Comprehensive overview by Chris Lackey.
• Doug Bradley's Spinechillers: Audio adaptation featuring Jeffrey Combs reading the original Lovecraft story.

"Re-Animator" stands as a seminal piece in the horror genre, particularly characterized by its audacious blend of extreme gore and dark humor. Adapting the work of H.P. Lovecraft, the film has garnered acclaim for maintaining the eerie essence of Lovecraft's storytelling, a feat rarely achieved in cinematic renditions of his works. Stewart Gordon's direction brings Lovecraft’s material to life with a gonzo approach, integrating elements of horror and dark comedy. The practical effects, notably the re-animated zombies, underscore the film’s dedication to visceral horror, while performances by Barbara Crampton and Jeffrey Combs amplify its campy yet eerie appeal.

The release from Arrow Video offers new transfers of two versions: the unrated and integral cuts. The video quality boasts an impressive clarity that surpasses previous releases, rendering the lurid visuals with enhanced detail and fidelity. This makes for an enriching viewing experience, capturing the movie's distinctive aesthetic more vividly.

Arrow has also provided a wealth of supplementary materials. These include behind-the-scenes footage, interviews with cast and crew, and insightful commentaries that delve further into the film’s production nuances and legacy. The package is an indispensable acquisition for enthusiasts who wish to delve deeper into both the film’s context and its impact within the horror genre.

Arrow's Blu-ray release of "Re-Animator" reaffirms the film’s enduring legacy within the horror genre. This edition meticulously restores both the theatrical and extended versions, delivering superior visual and audio quality that surpasses previous home media releases. The image clarity, color accuracy, and added depth bring new life to the film's iconic scenes, ensuring a viewing experience that aligns with modern standards.

Accompanied by an impressive array of supplementary materials, Arrow has outdone itself in providing a comprehensive collector’s package. The extras delve deep into the film’s production, offering insightful commentaries, detailed behind-the-scenes footage, and exclusive interviews. This release also includes various physical bonuses that fans of the genre will find particularly enticing, enriching the overall value of this edition.

In conclusion, "Re-Animator's" already burnished (and bloody) reputation will probably only increase now with this very handsomely packaged set from Arrow. Both versions look better than ever, and Arrow has done its typically excellent job in providing a wealth of supplements and non-disc swag. Highly recommended.