Baron Blood Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Baron Blood" boasts a significant improvement over previous DVD editions, with a 1080p/AVC-encoded transfer sourced from the original 35mm negative. Despite an initially grimy title sequence marred by heavy specks and dual layers of grain, the overall visual quality of this low-budget Italian horror film remains commendable. Notably, the encode preserves the film's authentic aesthetics, as there are no signs of grain-erasing noise reduction or blatant edge enhancement. Distinctive characteristics like small scratches and flecks of debris contribute to the feeling of watching an authentic, vintage print. One notable flaw is some fleeting banding during specific scenes, but overall, there are no significant compression issues.

Visual fidelity is notably improved with well-saturated and bold colors, particularly greens and reds, and impressive black levels that maintain detail in shadows. The 1.74:1 aspect ratio presentation offers vivid contrast and crisp whites, enhancing visibility in sunlit exterior scenes. These scenes reveal remarkable details in masonry work and stone textures, while close-ups provide lifelike depictions of actors’ faces. Though the presentation is not flawless—cigarette burns appear amusingly in the second half—the overall consistency of the video quality makes this one of Kino Lorber's best releases on Blu-ray. The presentation remains true to its source material's inherent qualities, ensuring that purists and new viewers alike appreciate its semi-satisfying, authentically vintage charm.

The uncompressed Linear PCM 2.0 audio track for "Baron Blood" presents a mix of expected 1970s gothic B-horror elements and commendable preservation efforts. As with many films of its era, there is a minor but noticeable background hiss, occasional pops, and mild crackles throughout the film. Dialogue, while always comprehensible, can come across as thick and somewhat muffled. Notably, the Italian-origin dubbing remains conspicuous but does not significantly affect the overall experience. Importantly, there are no issues with channels cutting out, abrupt volume changes, or peaking. Stelvio Cipriani’s score, although somewhat thin dynamically, remains authentic without becoming brittle or harsh.

Efforts to clean up the original mono track for the Blu-ray release are evident, contributing to an audio presentation that is largely free from hissing, popping, or intrusive noise. However, the imaging remains slightly hollow and lacks depth, although the soundstage is clean with a decent acoustical presence. Dialogue remains centered and intelligible, with the mid-range frequencies sounding even and uniform. Some loud segments deliver clear and detailed sounds but bass is generally absent, though a few scenes benefit from minor weight. The musical score by Cipriani stands out as a highlight, effectively utilizing the available channels to broaden the soundfield. It is important to note that this English track does not include subtitle options, which may be a drawback for some viewers.

Overall, the mix offers a faithful representation of the original source material while demonstrating commendable audio restoration efforts.

The Blu Ray of "Baron Blood" offers a robust collection of extras that enhance the viewer's understanding and appreciation of Mario Bava's work. Featuring a meticulous, well-researched audio commentary by Tim Lucas, renowned Bava biographer, the disc delves into the film's production history, location choices, and the intriguing relationship between Bava and producer Alfredo Leone. Lucas also highlights various homages within the film, offering both historical context and detailed anecdotes from the set. Complementing the commentary, the disc includes Italian title sequences, theatrical trailers in both Italian and English, and various radio spots. These supplements provide a comprehensive exploration of Bava's creative process and the film's cinematic influences.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Tim Lucas provides an in-depth exploration of the film's production, homages, and creative influences.
• Italian Title Sequences: Alternate opening and closing in the original Italian language.
• Italian and English Theatrical Trailers: Original previews for the film.
• Three Radio spots: Audio-only promotional trailers.
• Mario Bava Trailers: Trailers for Black Sunday, Hatchet for the Honeymoon, Lisa and the Devil, The House of Exorcism.

"Baron Blood," a 1972 release by Mario Bava, stands as a re-engagement with the Italian gothic horror genre for which Bava is renowned. The film melds macabre elements and mild gore within ghostly atmospherics, creating an amalgam of past and present horror styles. Bava’s work on nearly forty Italian features as a cinematographer before his directorial debut is notable, cementing his legacy in cinema. Despite this, "Baron Blood" falls into the realm of mediocrity compared to his more groundbreaking works like "Black Sunday." The color cinematography, while lush in its use of expressive colors and imaginative lighting, pales in comparison to the striking monochrome visuals of earlier films.

Antonio Cantafora stars as Peter Kleist, an American student venturing to Austria to explore his ancestral roots and the dark past of Otto von Kleist, also known as Baron Blood. The narrative weaves through authentic environments such as Burg Kreuzenstein castle, offering rich gothic production values. The plot is centered on an old incantation found in Peter’s grandfather's papers, leading to the resurrection of the sadistic Baron, who dons 18th-century attire evocative of undead pilgrims. This ghoul stalks through candle-lit dungeons and fog-choked streets, providing audiences with eerie yet somewhat campy imagery.

Bava’s visual creativity shines even if the script feels formulaic, heavily borrowing themes from "Black Sunday" and incorporating callbacks like iron spikes and vengeful spirits. Noteworthy set pieces include a night-time chase through village streets and the climactic revenant-filled finale. However, the film's middle section drags with a subplot involving Joseph Cotton as a dubious entrepreneur. Despite these shortcomings, Bava orchestrates memorable horror sequences that exemplify his ability to turn a limited budget into atmospheric and visually engaging scenes.

Mario Bava's "Baron Blood" is a captivating blend of classic and modern gothic horror elements. Starring Elke Sommer and Joseph Cotten, Bava artfully balances atmospheric dread with visually imaginative sequences, showcasing his undeniable flair in the genre. The film’s narrative could be considered formulaic, but Bava's expert direction and keen sense of style ensure it remains engaging for fans. This Blu-ray edition brings the film back to life with commendable audio and video quality, enhancing the haunting experience.

Kino-Lorber's Blu-ray release of "Baron Blood" excels in providing an excellent high-definition transfer, marking a significant upgrade from previous DVD versions. The improved visuals reveal more detail in Bava's meticulous set designs and chilling cinematography, while the audio presentation maintains the eerie ambiance essential to the film's tone. The Blu-ray's supplementary material is relatively sparse but includes an informative commentary by Tim Lucas, author of "Mario Bava: All the Colors of the Dark," which offers valuable insights into Bava's techniques and the thematic undertones of the film.

In conclusion, while "Baron Blood" may not be the pinnacle of Mario Bava's illustrious career—titles like "Black Sunday" or his early influential gialli hold that honor—the film sustains a dedicated cult following. Fans drawn to Bava's economical yet inventive approach will appreciate this release. Kino-Lorber's Blu-ray should satisfy Bava enthusiasts with its solid technical upgrade and in-depth commentary, making it a worthy addition to the collection of any Italian horror aficionado.