Body Bags Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Body Bags" by Scream Factory, boasting an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 1.78:1 aspect ratio, delivers an impressive visual experience. Initially aired on television in a 1.33:1 ratio, this adaptation successfully navigates the transition without any significant framing issues. The source elements for this transfer are in exemplary condition, with only minor, nearly imperceptible specks. Colors exhibit high saturation and a natural, yet unobtrusive grain, culminating in a pleasingly nostalgic, filmic aesthetic. Exceptional fine detail is evident, particularly in close-ups, although some interstitial scenes with John Carpenter as the Coroner are slightly softer due to the cool blue lighting effects. However, this does not detract significantly from the overall sharpness and detail throughout the three films.

Furthermore, the transfer excels in rendering deep black levels, notably in "The Gas Station" segment, which enhances the film's atmospheric horror elements. The 1.78:1 aspect ratio brings a fresh perspective to Carpenter’s work, showcasing surfaces and textures with newfound clarity and sharpness. Fans familiar with the original will find that skin tones and makeup effects are rendered naturally and sharply, with gruesome details popping vividly off the screen. Overall, Scream Factory’s meticulous effort in maintaining the film’s aesthetic integrity while modernizing its aspect ratio ensures that "Body Bags" is visually more immersive than ever before, providing a rich and engaging viewing experience that will undoubtedly please both new viewers and long-time fans alike. The team's exceptional work has truly elevated this classic anthology to new visual heights.

"Body Bags" offers a robust audio presentation with both DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 and DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mixes. The 5.1 mix, while not overwhelmingly immersive in its surround sound execution, does masterfully utilize the low end to bolster startle effects and enhance the sometimes eerie score co-written by John Carpenter. The dialogue is consistently crisp and clear across both tracks, ensuring excellent fidelity. However, it is notable that the 2.0 track is mixed at a less aggressive amplitude compared to the 5.1 track, which provides a broader dynamic range and more pronounced bass response.

Despite the merits, the 5.1 DTS-HD MA track is not without its issues. Notably, "The Gas Station" segment reveals some source-related anomalies, such as a slight buzz during dialogue and occasional static when actors pronounce their S’s. These artifacts are present in both audio tracks, indicating a source issue rather than a fault of the audio mix itself. Additionally, there’s an isolated occurrence of a noisy buzz during dialogue in the “Morgue” sequence and specific shots in "The Gas Station." Nevertheless, these issues are minimal and do not significantly detract from the overall audio experience.

In conclusion, while "Body Bags" may present some minor audio imperfections linked to its source, the 5.1 mix excels in delivering clean dialogue, an engaging musical score, and effective sound effects that contribute to the film’s overall atmosphere. This release offers a suitable audio package for horror enthusiasts seeking clear and impactful sound quality despite some inherent technical flaws.

The Blu-ray extras for "Body Bags" are a must-see for fans, offering a wealth of insights directly from the creative minds and cast. Notably, the audio commentary stands out with Director John Carpenter, Producer Sandy King, and actors Stacy Keach and Robert Carradine. Though recorded separately, each segment is exceptionally well-edited, providing amusing and informative behind-the-scenes stories. Additionally, the "Unzipping Body Bags" featurette is an engaging piece that includes interviews with Carpenter, Sandy King, and cast members, detailing the genesis, shoot, and legacy of the film. These extras are complemented by the film's original trailer, offering a comprehensive and enjoyable look at the making of this cult classic.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Director John Carpenter, Producer Sandy King, and actors Stacy Keach and Robert Carradine share behind-the-scenes details.
• Unzipping Body Bags: Cast and crew discuss the making and impact of the film.
• Trailer: Original theatrical trailer for "Body Bags".

"Body Bags" is an engaging anthology film from horror maestros John Carpenter and Tobe Hooper that never fails to deliver thrills, chills, and in some cases, laughs. Initially conceived as a series for Showtime to rival HBO’s "Tales from the Crypt," it ultimately shaped itself into a feature film comprised of three segments. Carpenter himself stars as The Coroner, a darkly humorous morgue attendant who sets the stage for each tale with a blend of morbid wit and eerie charm.

The first segment, "The Gas Station," presents a classic slasher scenario. Alex Datcher's Anne, a young woman on her first night shift at an isolated gas station, finds herself alone after dark with a serial killer on the prowl. Carpenter crafts a taut atmosphere filled with tension, punctuated by surprising cameos from horror icons like Wes Craven and Sam Raimi. Although it treads familiar territory with predictable twists, the segment excels due to its suspenseful build-up and bursts of violent excitement.

"Hair," the second segment, shifts gears into dark comedy territory. Stacy Keach plays Richard Coberts, an ageing man desperate to halt his hair loss. A seemingly miraculous treatment results in a full head of lustrous hair, but soon turns nightmarish as the hair begins to grow uncontrollably, taking on a life of its own. Directed with a pitch-perfect balance between horror and humor, this segment stands out for its unsettlingly absurd premise and Keach's stellar performance.

The anthology concludes with Tobe Hooper’s "Eye," the darkest and most disturbing entry. Mark Hamill stars as Brent Matthews, a baseball player who loses an eye in an accident and receives a transplant from an executed killer. As Brent experiences terrifying visions of the killer’s crimes, the story unfolds into a visceral exploration of identity and madness. Hooper’s direction ensures that this segment is both haunting and intensely dramatic, providing a strong finale to the anthology.

Overall, "Body Bags" is an underrated gem in the horror anthology genre, blending humor and horror seamlessly while showcasing the unique directorial talents of Carpenter and Hooper.

"Body Bags" is a lesser-known entry in John Carpenter's oeuvre, but its re-release on Blu-ray by Scream Factory brings a forgotten gem to the forefront. While it might not be the director's most innovative work, the horror anthology offers an enjoyably creepy experience with iconic cameos and practical gore effects that have aged well. The interstitials featuring Carpenter may borrow heavily from "Tales from the Crypt," but they infuse a delightfully nostalgic charm.

The Blu-ray release boasts impressive video and audio quality, ensuring that each eerie detail and spine-tingling sound resonates with crystal clarity. The supplemental materials, though not exhaustive, are undeniably informative and engaging, adding significant value without overstaying their welcome. Die-hard Carpenter fans will appreciate the nuanced touches and hidden easter eggs scattered throughout the film's segments.

In conclusion, "Body Bags" may not be the most essential Carpenter film, but it’s undeniably fun and holds a special place in horror anthology history. This Blu-ray edition, with its pristine presentation and thoughtful extras, is a worthy addition to any genre enthusiast's collection. Recommended for fans of Carpenter and aficionados of horror alike.