Army of Darkness Blu-ray Review

The "Army of Darkness" Blu-ray presentation by Scream Factory presents itself as a commendable upgrade over previous editions, offering AVC encoded 1080p transfers across three primary versions: Theatrical, Director’s, and International Cuts. Despite its minor glitch in the Theatrical Version at around the 28-minute mark, Shout! Factory has been proactive in addressing this with upcoming replacement discs. The International Cut, sourced from a new 4K scan of the inter-positive, stands out with its organic look, nicely resolved grain, and natural color palette, albeit with some issues in darker scenes and specific sequences like Ash's feast, which appear softer and grainier.

Across all versions, the video quality achieves a largely positive score, though it's marked by occasional fluctuations. The Theatrical Version shows improved color timing and slightly more natural grain over the problematic Screwhead Edition, yet it reveals variability in sharpness and grain texture. The Director's Cut rolls out with lower contrast but retains excellent grain resolution while revealing minor yellow splotchiness in optical scenes.

Despite some persistent haloing and ringing effects—a remnant from the original heavy use of edge enhancement—the overall visual presentation is bright, vivid, and features appreciable detail in the film’s low-budget, pre-CGI optical effects. Exterior shots display defined lines and textures in costumes and set pieces, with colors appearing brighter and flesh tones more natural compared to previous versions. Black levels are impressively deep with good shadow delineation, maintaining a cinematic tonality enhanced by the stable grain structure across the 1.78:1 image. Each version offers unique enhancements for collectors, with the International Cut being arguably the most visually appealing due to its newer 4K scan.

Theatrical Version: 3/5
Director’s Cut: 3/5
International Cut: 3.5/5

The audio presentation of the Blu Ray Collector's Edition of "Army of Darkness" is a commendable effort that truly enhances the cinematic experience. Each of the three films in this edition features DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and 2.0 tracks. The surround soundtracks provide a robust level of immersion, especially during the wacky effects sequences which are accentuated with cartoonish and often hilarious sound effects. These elements showcase good dynamic range and clear dialogue that prioritizes coherency, maintaining clarity even amidst the chaotic audio landscape. However, some moments, such as the Gulliver's Travels sequence with Ash being attacked by mini-Ashes, occasionally sound boxy.

When comparing the different versions included, the Screwhead Edition’s 5.1 surround track and the theatrical version offer similar audio experiences, primarily utilizing rear speakers for musical elements to broaden the soundfield. This approach shines during climactic battle sequences where discrete effects fill the room and create an immersive environment. Nevertheless, some action sequences can feel slightly thin or forced. Interestingly, the international version's 5.1 audio benefits from being derived from a new master of the inter-positives, leading to an improved auditory experience.

Despite the advantages of the surround soundtracks, the 2.0 tracks stand out for their fidelity to the original recordings. This stereo option often results in a more engaging and satisfying audio experience. With DSU applied on compatible systems, the 2.0 track might surpass the native surround offerings by providing spacious imaging, excellent channel separation, and a dynamic range that lends an impressively clean soundscape. Off-screen activities are convincingly rendered, and the musical score blends into rear speakers naturally, wonderfully filling the room and enhancing the film's whimsical charm. Screams, wails, and Ash’s notable quips are crisply delivered through the center channel with a responsive and full-bodied low-end presence making this audio presentation a standout in its category.

The Blu-ray extras for "Army of Darkness" are an exceptional array capturing both vintage materials and contemporary insights. The collection is headlined by "Medieval Times: The Making of Army of Darkness," an in-depth documentary with interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, and two full cuts of the film—the Theatrical and the Director's Cut, both featuring audio options. The package includes alternate openings and endings, deleted scenes with commentary, trailers, and numerous featurettes exploring special effects, on-set dynamics, and interviews. The inclusion of a television version and international cuts further enrich this exhaustive set. This disc set serves as the definitive HD version for enthusiasts and provides a comprehensive look at the film's production journey.

Extras included in this disc:

• Medieval Times: The Making of Army of Darkness: Detailed documentary with vintage and contemporary interviews.
• Original Ending: Available in improved quality on the Director's Cut disc.
• Alternate Opening: With optional commentary by Sam Raimi and Bruce Campbell.
• Deleted Scenes: Includes optional commentary.
• Theatrical Trailer
• TV Spots
• U.S. Video Promo
• Director's Cut Audio Commentary: Sam Raimi, Bruce Campbell, and Ivan Raimi.
• On Set Video Footage Compilation
• Creating the Deadites Featurette: Archival and modern interviews on special effects.
• Behind the Scenes Footage from KNB Effects
• Vintage Making Of Featurette
• Extended Interview Clips
• International Theatrical Trailer
• Still Galleries with Rare Behind the Scenes Photos
• Still Gallery of Props and Rare Photos
• Storyboards: Info on proposed longer sequences.
• The Men Behind the Army: Looks at VFX and prop fabrication.
• Special Thanks: Acknowledgements for the release contributors.

Sam Raimi's Army of Darkness culminates The Evil Dead trilogy with a blend of slapstick, horror, and medieval fantasy in an utterly bonkers extravaganza. The film opens with Ash Williams (Bruce Campbell) getting plunged into the Middle Ages, continuing the lunatic antics that define this series. Raimi’s signature frenetic camera work and Campbell's comic timing shine throughout, as Ash encounters knights, Deadites, and even a bizarrely affectionate medieval damsel. Ash’s transformation from a bumbling Kmart housewares employee into an inadvertent hero makes for uneasy yet entertaining transitions, underscoring Raimi’s insouciant tone and penchant for unabashed silliness.

The layered interplay of gags and viscerally vibrant special effects delivers an atypical mix of genres that remarkably works without pretension. Raimi and Campbell’s commentary reinforces their awareness of the film’s cartoonish ethos, influenced by everything from Ray Harryhausen’s mythic stop-motion to The Three Stooges. While Ash's misadventures in quest of the Necronomicon don't strive for logical coherence, Bruce Campbell’s swagger and Campbell’s arch delivery style offer enough charisma and humor to keep audiences hanging on every absurd twist. Capably supported by an inventive effects team, the film turns intentional schlock into a fun, self-mocking romp.

Raimi’s eclectic narrative finds harmony in its chaotic spirit, reminiscent of A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court blended with Gulliver’s Travels. Effects may appear cheesy, but they enliven the film’s humor rather than detract from it. In only 81 minutes, Army of Darkness whirls from one zany set piece to another without disorienting its audience—thanks to rapid-fire jokes and visual antics. Whether you view the theatrical version or the Director’s Cut, complete with its apocalyptic conclusion, Raimi's madcap vision and Campbell's irresistible charm ensure that this film remains a uniquely entertaining gem in the horror-comedy genre.

The 1992 cult classic "Army of Darkness," starring Bruce Campbell, is an intentionally campy horror-comedy that has always held a unique place in the hearts of its fans. The newly released three-disc Collector's Edition by Shout! Factory elevates this beloved film into the high-definition realm with remarkable upgrades. The standout among these improvements is the vastly enhanced picture quality and satisfying audio tracks, particularly in the International Cut, which offers the best audiovisual presentation of the three available versions. This edition exemplifies technical excellence in both video and audio fidelity, making it a worthy investment for enthusiasts.

The release is complemented by a comprehensive assortment of supplementary materials that delve deeply into the film's production and cultural impact. This vast array of supplements includes behind-the-scenes footage, interviews, and rare promotional content that enriches the viewing experience for both new viewers and long-time fans. While it's true that no release is without its imperfections, Shout! Factory’s offering comes remarkably close to perfect, providing a well-rounded package that will keep collectors engaged for hours.

You pretty much just have to surrender to the patent lunacy of "Army of Darkness," but if you do, chances are you'll have a rollicking good time, one that keeps the adrenaline fueled substantially while also delivering a lot of admittedly juvenile but just plain laugh out loud humor. This new Shout! release may not be absolutely perfect, but it's an incredibly solid effort with a lot to celebrate, including a glut of supplements. Highly recommended.