Death Rides a Horse Blu-ray Review

Presented in an aspect ratio of 2.34:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, Death Rides a Horse appears on Blu-ray courtesy of Kino Lorber. The 1080p transfer utilizes a master previously employed by MGM and Swiss label Explosive Media. Despite its age, the master remains solid with commendable organic qualities and pleasing clarity. Close-ups exhibit nice delineation, with indoor footage presenting surprisingly well-defined shadow details. However, wider panoramic shots reveal some limitations, lacking optimal depth. Occasional small traces of fading are evident in the color scheme, and there are nuances that could benefit from a more robust 2K or 4K remaster.

The film maintains an appreciable amount of film grain, delivering a textured look with strong fine details. Color accuracy is solid with good primary presence and healthy flesh tones, though colors can appear a tad pale at times. Contrast levels are stable and black levels decent, although some sequences lack depth, giving them a flatter appearance—but not to a distracting degree. Mild speckling, along with some scratches and blemishes, are present but minimal in impact. No distracting digital corrections like banding or compression issues were noted, allowing for an unadulterated viewing experience.

Overall, while a fresh scan would improve several aspects significantly, this Blu-ray transfer holds up remarkably well given the vintage of the master. The video quality remains strong, showcasing the film with an authentic texture and satisfactory detail, making it a compelling presentation for fans.

The Blu-ray release of "Death Rides a Horse" offers two standard audio tracks: English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 and Italian DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0, with optional English subtitles. Fans of the genre can appreciate the upgrade to a lossless English track, a notable improvement over the previous releases. While the sound quality is commendable, with precise levels and few issues for a film of its age, there is a general consensus that a new master with redone audio could provide additional depth and enhancements. The current tracks capture the authentic characteristics of the original recording, maintaining an engaging auditory experience without significant flaws.

The English DTS-HD MA 2.0 mix is notably strong and effective, preserving the signature traits of Spaghetti Westerns, such as post-produced dialogue that occasionally suffers from "rubber-mouth." Sound effects have an intentionally exaggerated quality, with gunshots resonating like cannon explosions and atmospherics that are flat but fitting for the genre. Ennio Morricone's iconic score is particularly well-preserved and enjoyable, even featuring familiar motifs used in modern films like "Kill Bill." Minor instances of hiss and crackle are present but do not detract from the overall experience.

The Italian DTS-HD MA 2.0 mix offers an interesting alternative with English subtitles for those seeking a different auditory flavor. However, it retains similar post-production heavy qualities as the English track. While some purists might argue for the Italian audio to enjoy authentic voice performances, many feel that the quintessential Spaghetti Western experience is best captured with the heavily dubbed English voices, which serve as a trademark of the sub-genre. Both audio tracks provide valuable listening options, ensuring a versatile and robust audio presentation on this Blu-ray release.

The extras on the Blu-Ray release of "Death Rides a Horse" present a commendable but limited selection that adds value for cinephiles and genre enthusiasts. The highlight is the engaging audio commentary by filmmaker Alex Cox, who provides a mix of historical insights and entertaining anecdotes about the film. This enriching commentary is complemented by a vintage trailer for "Death Rides a Horse" in high-definition. Additionally, the disc includes an array of trailers from Kino Lorber's catalog, offering intriguing glimpses into other notable titles. Though not an extensive collection of extras, what is provided maintains a high quality and relevance to fans of classic Westerns.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: Audio commentary by filmmaker Alex Cox.
• Trailer: A vintage trailer for "Death Rides a Horse". In English, not subtitled.
• Additional Trailers: Additional trailers from Kino Lorber's catalog:
  • For a Few Dollars More
  • Barquero
  • The Return of Sabata
  • The Mercenary
  • Valdez Is Coming
  • Navajo Joe

Giulio Petroni's "Death Rides a Horse" (1967) is a quintessential Spaghetti Western, arriving on Blu-ray courtesy of Kino Lorber. Featuring Lee Van Cleef as the embittered outlaw Ryan and John Phillip Law as the vengeance-driven Bill, this film is a stellar example of the genre. The narrative revolves around a young boy, Bill, who witnesses the harrowing murder and rape of his family by a gang of bandits. The trauma fuels his quest for revenge as he grows into a formidable gunslinger. Simultaneously, Ryan, freshly released from prison after being betrayed by his gang, seeks retribution of his own. Their paths converge as they hunt down the same adversaries, leading to an intriguing alliance.

"Death Rides a Horse" seamlessly blends intense action with psychological depth. The opening sequence, a chilling portrayal of Bill's family's assault, immediately grips the audience, laying a strong foundation for Bill's relentless pursuit. Petroni’s direction, complemented by cinematographer Carlo Carlini’s stunning visuals of the Spanish deserts, enhances the film’s atmosphere. The highly stylized violence and epic score by Ennio Morricone elevate the tension and cinematic experience. Van Cleef portrays Ryan with jaded precision, and Law matches this energy with dangerous charisma. Luigi Pistilli’s depiction of the ruthless gang leader Walcott is particularly noteworthy.

Despite its serious tone and violent sequences, the film maintains a sly sense of humor, delivering sharp one-liners that add an extra layer of enjoyment without detracting from the intensity. This balance ensures that the nearly two-hour runtime flies by, driven by dynamic pacing and engaging action scenes. Morricone’s iconic score further solidifies the film’s place among notable Spaghetti Westerns. This Blu-ray release not only preserves the film’s visual and auditory integrity but also allows audiences to fully appreciate its classic elements and captivating performances.

"Death Rides a Horse" delivers all the hallmarks of a quintessential Spaghetti Western, boasting thrilling action, sharp humor, and a compelling revenge narrative. Lee Van Cleef and John Phillip Law provide standout performances, with Ennio Morricone's evocative score further enhancing the cinematic experience. Despite its age, the film's inherent charm and entertainment value remain intact, making it a worthy addition for genre enthusiasts.

Kino Lorber Studio Classics' Blu-ray release of "Death Rides a Horse" is commendable for its sturdiness and technical delivery. While the movie has not benefited from a recent restoration, the audio and visual presentation remains strong and effective, showcasing the film's organic qualities. The inclusion of a solid audio commentary adds value, although the bonus features are rather limited. The transition to a lossless track does mark an improvement, albeit not as significant as anticipated. Nevertheless, there is room for a comprehensive makeover to provide a convincing technical presentation befitting contemporary standards.

In conclusion, "Death Rides A Horse" on Blu-ray is a highly recommended pick, especially for Spaghetti Western aficionados and collectors. The existing master may show signs of aging, but it still offers an enjoyable viewing experience. While awaiting a potential future restoration, this release from Kino Lorber Studio Classics represents a reliable option—particularly apt for holiday gifting when found on sale.