Spellbinder Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray of "Spellbinder," presented in its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio, offers an AVC encoded image that captures much of the 1980s cinematographic essence. The transfer retains compelling and bright primaries, vividly showcasing the era’s fashion and interior designs. Skintones appear consistent and natural, enhancing the lifelike presentation of characters. Detailing is generally strong, especially in facial textures and costumes, which display fibrous and sheer qualities effectively. Horror sequences receive a notable boost with enriched ghoulish particulars.

However, some technical limitations are evident. Sharpness and detail fluctuate, with certain scenes appearing softer than others. Motion jitter is generally minor but does intrude, particularly during the opening and closing credits. While grain is present, it remains fine and filmic, adding to the authenticity without being overly intrusive. Black levels are moderate—adequate for home viewing but lacking the depth seen in higher-end transfers. Despite some minor speckling and occasional black or white flecks of dirt, the source material remains in good overall condition.

Overall, this Blu-ray transfer delivers a visually engaging yet technically moderate viewing experience that aligns well with expectations for an 80s film release by Kino Lorber. While some improvements could be made in terms of sharpness and motion handling, it's a solid presentation that maintains the film's original aesthetic qualities.

The 2.0 DTS-HD MA sound mix for "Spellbinder" effectively supports a captivating audio experience. The mix excels in delivering clean definition and activity, particularly in representing the film's satanic influence, which adds to the rich atmospheric tension. Dialogue exchanges are rendered with crisp clarity, handling a variety of emotions from panic to whispered exposition with ease. Although the scoring isn't particularly remarkable, it competently lubricates suspenseful moments, while sound effects are sweetened adequately to bring added stings and explosions to life.

This sole English 2.0 DTS-HD track sufficiently meets the needs of the movie, providing notable stereo separation and clear dialogue without issues such as dropouts or muddiness. Some ambient noises and music cues may come across as louder than expected, likely a reflection of the original mix's intent. While it may not be a showcase for high-end home theater systems, the track performs admirably to ensure that most viewers will be satisfied with their listening experience.

The Blu-ray extras for "Spellbinder" present a compelling mixture of in-depth interviews and nostalgic content that will appeal to fans and cinephiles alike. The commentary by director Janet Greek offers a rare behind-the-scenes perspective that complements the extensive interview with Anthony Crivello. Crivello's candid discussion illuminates significant post-production challenges, casting choices, and the painstaking special effects labor. His recount of choreographing intense fight scenes on a roller coaster also adds a unique touch to his narrative. Although the theatrical trailer's inclusion is appreciated, it is disappointing that it is only available in standard definition and full-frame, detracting slightly from the overall high-quality experience.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: Features director Janet Greek.
• Interview with Anthony Crivello: Crivello discusses post-production conflicts, casting, and special effects.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original trailer in standard definition and full-frame.

Spellbinder (1988), directed by Janet Greek and penned by Tracy Torme, is a B-movie that oscillates between the ridiculous and the inspired. The film successfully taps into a unique blend of sensuality and horror, tracing the perilous nature of temptation. Kelly Preston is central to this narrative, portraying Miranda with an allure that keeps viewers intrigued. The movie revolves around Jeff (Timothy Daly), a back-ailing lawyer who rescues Miranda from an apparent attack by Aldys (Anthony Crivello). As the film unravels, Jeff is sucked into a whirlpool of witchcraft and danger, striving to save his newfound love from a sinister coven. The film isn't particularly scary but maintains its pacing with satisfactory performances, especially from Preston and Daly, who exhibit decent chemistry amid the supernatural chaos.

The real strength of Spellbinder lies in its ability to immerse Jeff in escalating oddities, highlighted by eerie confrontations and scattered teases of dark activities. Characters such as police officer Lee (Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa) and friend Derek (Rick Rossovich) add layers to Jeff's journey, although some narrative detours feel underdeveloped. The film's writing subverts initial expectations by integrating elements of witchcraft as solutions to mundane problems, like Miranda using black magic to heal Jeff's back pain, turning them from strangers into lovers quickly. Miranda remains an enigmatic figure throughout, maintaining an alluring mystery with her supernatural abilities that Jeff, blinded by affection, seems too eager to overlook.

Despite its merits, the movie stumbles with its acting and overall cohesiveness. Daly stands out for his committed performance; however, other cast members, including Preston at times, fall short of delivering convincing dialogue. The film achieves cult status perhaps due to its bold conclusion and sporadic moments of innovative direction. While its overall execution leaves much to be desired, Spellbinder is still worth a watch for those interested in oddball thrillers from the late '80s, blending elements of horror, romance, and the supernatural in a distinctively quirky manner.

"Spellbinder" on Blu Ray presents a film both enigmatic and flawed, yet it manages to retain an engaging cult appeal. Among its noticeable highlights, the movie bravely delves into the darkness and complexity of the protagonist Jeff's heroism, exploring the true price of his dedication. While the execution stumbles with awkward performances and some halfhearted attempts at genre conventions, specifically martial arts, it steadfastly follows its narrative course towards a gripping, violent beach climax. This steadfast adherence provides a sense of earned resolution, punctuated by surprising twists that keep the audience invested.

Technically, the Blu Ray transfer exhibits a commendable level of detail despite the film's obvious constraints of its era. The picture quality supports the eerie atmosphere integral to the film's tone, while the audio mix amplifies the suspenseful beats and dramatic moments effectively. Though there's an inherent '80s cheesiness in the overall aesthetics and dialogue delivery, these aspects inadvertently contribute to its charm for those attuned to the period's cinematic quirks.

"Spellbinder" is paradoxically both laughable and engaging, securing its place in the pantheon of cult classics. It may not win over every viewer and is unlikely to elicit genuine fear, but it's bound to entertain with its mix of unintentional humor and plot sincerity. For those in sync with its particular brand of supernatural thriller, it warrants a viewing—if not for its narrative twists, then for its nostalgic value and the memorable ending that provides ample fodder for post-viewing discussions. This Blu Ray edition preserves these qualities, cementing "Spellbinder" as an artifact worth experiencing in the right context.