Elvira: Mistress of the Dark Blu-ray Review

"Elvira: Mistress of the Dark" receives a sterling Blu-ray presentation from Arrow Video, utilizing a 2K restoration of the original 35mm interpositive. The film is delivered in its correct aspect ratio of 1.85:1 with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer. This transfer significantly elevates the visual quality compared to previous home media iterations, exhibiting organically film-like textures and a very natural grain structure. The restored image offers deeply saturated colors and sharp fine details, particularly noticeable in the intricate sets—from the quaint town exteriors to the richly detailed interiors of Elvira’s inherited Victorian house.

One of the standout aspects of this release is the balance and resolution of colors; bold reds and other primary hues pop vividly without appearing brash. Contrast and brightness are exceptionally well-handled, with strong black levels that maintain detail even in the darkest scenes. Notably, Arrow's restoration efforts have resulted in a presentation free from significant debris or distracting compression artifacts. However, minor fluctuations in grain and occasional soft spots do surface, characteristic of the film’s modest budget and vintage origins. These issues are minor and do not undermine the considerable visual enhancements offered by this Blu-ray.

The film benefits further from excellent shadow delineation and stable black levels, enhancing the richness of nighttime scenes. Overall sharpness and fidelity are impressive, with exterior shots—such as those of the Universal backlot—clearly revealing textures and set details with newfound clarity. Despite some inherent limitations due to budget constraints during production, "Elvira: Mistress of the Dark" now boasts a robust visual appeal. This release is an essential upgrade for fans who have previously only experienced the film through lower-quality formats, as it revitalizes both the vibrant comedic elements and the atmospheric spookiness integral to Elvira's charmingly kitsch allure.

The audio presentation of "Elvira: Mistress of the Dark" on Blu-ray showcases an uncompressed PCM 2.0 stereo track that deftly supports the film's whimsical and dynamic narrative. Featuring crystal-clear dialogue and effects, the audio track excels in delivering excellent fidelity and a wide dynamic range, aptly complementing the film's eccentric visual style. The stereo imaging is notably impressive, with sound effects sequences particularly benefiting from well-realized spatial placement. Despite the zany horror elements, the mix maintains great clarity, especially in musical numbers, where intricate details stand out remarkably.

However, some minor drawbacks are present. While the audio output is generally sharp and clean, dialogue occasionally feels harsh and slightly dated, reflecting its late ‘80s origins. This initial strain eases with continued exposure but can momentarily detract from an otherwise engaging auditory experience. The soundtrack's robust bass performance provides suitable weight and impact, enhancing the overall atmosphere without overwhelming the subtler audio cues. Overall, this PCM 2.0 track earns commendation for its warmth, definition, and consistent high-quality delivery throughout "Elvira: Mistress of the Dark."

The extras on the "Elvira: Mistress of the Dark" Blu-ray deliver a well-rounded and highly engaging look into the making of this cult classic, complemented by in-depth interviews and rare behind-the-scenes content. The feature-length documentary "Too Macabre: The Making of Elvira: Mistress of the Dark" stands out with extensive cast and crew interviews, offering a treasure trove of insights. The "Recipe for Terror: The Creation of the Pot Monster" segment dives into special effects, adding further depth to the supplementary material. Additional content includes a range of image galleries, trailers, and not one but three audio commentaries with unique perspectives—from actors, a director, and an enthusiast. These elements collectively enhance the viewing experience by providing a multifaceted understanding of the film's production.

Extras included in this disc:

• Too Macabre: The Making of Elvira: Mistress of the Dark: Feature-length documentary.
• Recipe for Terror: The Creation of the Pot Monster: Insight into SFX.
• Image Galleries: Photos divided into six sections.
• Director's Intro: By James Signorelli.
• Original US Trailer: Original promotional trailer.
• Original Teaser Trailer: Initial teaser trailer.
• Audio Commentaries: Three distinct discussions.

"Elvira: Mistress of the Dark" captures the quirky charm and zany humor characteristic of Cassandra Peterson's iconic Elvira persona. The film, produced by NBC Studios with some involvement from the then-head of NBC, Brandon Tartikoff, details Elvira's departure from her TV gig following a blatantly inappropriate proposition from her wealthy boss. This setup injects a surprisingly prescient commentary on workplace sexual harassment, predating well-known scandals by decades. The plot unfolds with Elvira journeying to Fallwell, an ultra-conservative town where she inherits a mysterious house and its supernatural paraphernalia, igniting conflict with the local moral watchdog Chastity Pariah (an aptly-cast Edie McClurg). The result is a campy clash between Elvira’s expressiveness and the town's puritan values.

Set against the backdrop of '80s hyper-conservatism, "Elvira: Mistress of the Dark" enriches its narrative with fourth-wall breaks, self-referential humor, and plenty of double entendres consistent with Elvira's original TV hosting shtick. Perhaps too episodic for some, the film thrives in bits and pieces rather than as a cohesive whole. Its screwball comedy elements, such as supernatural rings and transforming dogs in later scenes, harken back to B-horror movie roots with an affectionate nod to camp and kitsch. The movie features standout performances by Daniel Greene as Bob Redding and W. Morgan Sheppard as the villainous Vincent Talbot, adding to the melange of absurdity that makes "Elvira" both a snapshot of its era and a timeless cult favorite.

Despite its initial lukewarm reception and poor box office showing due to stiffer competition and New World Pictures' instability, modern audiences appreciate "Elvira: Mistress of the Dark" as a subversive comedy. Encouraged by a dedicated fan base, it has since become emblematic of Elvira’s fearless individuality against societal norms. Arrow Video’s Blu-ray release, complete with reversible cover art and an insightful booklet, preserves this cult classic for future enthusiasts to enjoy its delightful pastiche of spooky humor and social satire.

Arrow Video's Blu-ray release of Elvira: Mistress of the Dark significantly revitalizes this beloved cult classic, presenting it with impressive technical enhancements that eclipse previous digital releases. The film itself deftly navigates a comedic landscape, with Cassandra Peterson's iconic character using her unabashedly absurd persona to deliver a consistently entertaining slapstick experience, even though it doesn't hit the mark with every joke. This edition notably boasts an excellent HD video presentation, demonstrating significant improvements over earlier formats and a satisfying uncompressed PCM stereo soundtrack that collectively enhance the viewing experience.

Fans can expect a robust collection of supplementary materials, adding substantial value beyond the film's intrinsic entertainment. These extras are not only entertaining but also significant in offering a deeper dive into the making and legacy of Elvira: Mistress of the Dark. The included features provide both nostalgic insight for long-time fans and informative content for new viewers, which speak to Arrow Video’s commitment to providing comprehensive packages for home theater enthusiasts.

In conclusion, Arrow Video’s Blu-ray edition of Elvira: Mistress of the Dark stands out as a must-have for collectors and fans. While the movie itself grapples with a balance between hits and misses in its humor, it undeniably maintains its charm and appeal over three decades later. The superior technical presentation and extensive extras ensure this release is a definitive version, warranting enthusiastic recommendation for any film aficionado’s library.