The Entity Blu-ray Review

Scream Factory's Blu-ray release of "The Entity" presents a significantly improved video experience, despite utilizing the same master from their previous release. The 2.35:1 aspect ratio captures the film with notable enhancements in detail and texture. While certain scenes display softness and slight issues with black crush, others reveal impressive levels of clarity—down to the beard hairs and razor marks during close-ups. There's some inconsistency in grain levels which, although never obtrusive, shifts noticeably throughout the runtime. The warm and slightly burnished color palette imbues the film with a characteristic 1980s aesthetic. Overall, this version surpasses the earlier Anchor Bay release, delivering a visually satisfying rendition, though a more comprehensive restoration would have been welcome.

Audio offerings on this release are robust and expertly crafted, featuring 5.1 DTS-HD MA, 4.1 DTS-HD MA, and 2.0 DTS-HD MA tracks. The newly mastered audio mix, derived from the original 6-channel negative, propels the viewer into the gripping atmosphere of the film. The 5.1 mix is notably superior, accentuating the jarring and discordant score that underscores the entity's attacks with high precision. Vocals remain crisp and well-defined amidst a balanced soundstage that navigates highs and midtones effectively, complemented by substantial bass impact. The enhanced audio clarity and spatial accuracy significantly elevate the viewing experience, starkly contrasting with the subpar mixes of past releases.

In conclusion, while "The Entity" retains many emblematic 80s horror elements—both positive and flawed—this Blu-ray edition significantly enhances the technical presentation through improved video clarity and an immersive audio mix. A crucial upgrade for aficionados of the genre seeking a more defined and impactful viewing experience.

The Blu-ray release of "The Entity" presents a varied and immersive auditory experience, providing three uncompressed audio tracks: DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Stereo (1602 kbps, 24-bit), DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 Surround (2454 kbps, 24-bit), and DTS-HD Master Audio 4.1 track (2846 kbps, 24-bit). This meticulous audio restoration, supervised by Brett Cameron for the 4.1 mix, ensures an elevated listening experience. The DTS-HD MA 5.1 surround track stands out particularly with its enhanced activity across the satellite speakers, which contributes to a more enveloping audio environment. Dialogue remains clear and comprehensible throughout the presentation, benefiting from the lossless audio quality.

Composer Charles Bernstein's score is a significant highlight of the audio presentation. His innovative juxtaposition of '80s synthesizers and traditional orchestral elements creates a unique and memorable soundscape for "The Entity". The thrasher motif, characterized by its powerful bass, electric guitar, and dynamic percussion elements, effectively conveys the menace of the unseen antagonist. This pulsating composition is particularly impactful in lossless format, heightening the tension and immersing the listener fully in the film’s haunting atmosphere. Additionally, Bernstein's foreboding piano theme, featured during the main titles and reprised in the end credits, further underscores the film's eerie tone. The feature also includes optional English SDH subtitles for added accessibility.

The Blu-ray release of "The Entity" provides a comprehensive set of extras that will engage fans and scholars of the genre alike. The disc features newly recorded interviews with key cast and crew members, offering fresh insights into the making of this unsettling film. Barbara Hershey discusses the challenges and depths of her role, while composer Charles Bernstein delves into his unique approach to the film's haunting score. The inclusion of editor Frank J. Urioste recounting eerie on-set occurrences adds a layer of intrigue. Overall, the supplements deliver a compelling blend of technical know-how and behind-the-scenes stories, making this release invaluable for those interested in cinematic history and horror alike.

Extras included in this disc:

• Inner Strength: An interview with actress Barbara Hershey.
• Seeing Is Believing: An interview with actor David Labiosa.
• High Dread: An interview with composer Charles Bernstein.
• Spirits & Sprocket Holes: An interview with editor Frank J. Urioste.
• Audio Commentary: With author/filmmaker Daniel Kremer.
• Trailers From Hell: The Entity with audio commentary by Luca Guadagnino.
• The Entity Files: Featurette on real-life paranormal cases.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original trailer from Fox's vault.
• TV Spots: Original TV spots sourced from videocassette.
• Radio Spots: Original eerie-sounding radio spots.
• Still Gallery: High-resolution photos, posters, and ads.

"The Entity," directed by Sidney J. Furie and released in 1982, stands as a unique amalgamation of late 1970s supernatural themes and 1980s cinematic techniques. The unsettling narrative, purportedly based on true events from 1976, follows Carla Moran (Barbara Hershey) as she endures terrifying assaults by an invisible force. The film wastes no time delving into the horror, introducing us to Carla and her children amidst her initial attack. Hershey's portrayal of Carla's terror, punctuated by visible unease and a jarring synthetic score, ensures the fear is deeply felt by the audience. Her desperate search for help through both psychological and parapsychological means reflects the struggle between rational skepticism and supernatural dread, although the plot stretches credibility at times.

Visually, "The Entity" employs innovative techniques such as split-screen cinematography to create a sense of depth and perspective that enhances the film's chilling atmosphere. The optical effects are praiseworthy, despite some scenes appearing overly smooth due to these methods. The film’s way of portraying Carla's violent encounters with an unseen entity contributes to its haunting effect without resorting to excessive gore. However, audience reception may vary concerning its length and pacing, with some finding the over-two-hour runtime excessive for an '80s horror flick. Nevertheless, the film's concept of an invisible assailant with no discernible motive remains profoundly disturbing.

In terms of visual presentation on Blu-ray, Scream Factory's release demonstrates significant improvement over previous versions. Utilizing what seems to be a newer master than Anchor Bay’s 2012 release, this edition boasts enhanced detail and decreased artifacts. Despite occasional black crush and fluctuating grain levels, the overall quality is commendable, with warm and authentic colors that capture the era’s aesthetic. Notably, scenes exhibiting Dr. Sneiderman’s close-ups reveal incredible detail, although some scenes retain a dated softness. This transfer surpasses past iterations but could benefit from further restoration efforts to even out inconsistencies.

"The Entity" Blu-ray release by Scream Factory offers a fine presentation of the 1982 supernatural horror film, preserving its impact while significantly improving technical aspects. This release boast high quality audio options, including DTS-HD MA 5.1 and 2.0 tracks, ensuring an immersive auditory experience that highlights the film's chilling score and sound effects. Visually, the 2.39:1 AVC aspect ratio retains the original cinematic feel, despite not benefiting from a modern 4K scan. The transfer is a substantial improvement over previous releases, albeit not without some imperfections related to its age. Yet, the cleanup efforts alone make it an essential upgrade for enthusiasts.

The supplemental materials add significant value to this Collector's Edition. The commentary by Daniel Kremer provides insightful background and enhances the viewing experience. The four new interviews offer fresh perspectives and are particularly engaging, rounding out a comprehensive package that honors the film's legacy. Barbara Hershey and Ron Silver deliver standout performances that elevate an otherwise cliché-ridden script, penned by Frank De Felitta who also authored the original novel. While the film wrestles with some dated elements, its impact on the horror genre is undeniable, influencing iconic works like Wes Craven's "A Nightmare on Elm Street."

In conclusion, "The Entity" rises above many films of its era to deliver a genuinely terrifying experience, although it does fall prey to some 80s clichés and inconsistent acting outside of its leads. As a genre piece, it holds significant appeal for horror aficionados, especially those with a penchant for supernatural narratives. This Blu-ray release from Scream Factory far surpasses previous versions in quality and should be considered a must-have for fans. However, due to its mature themes, potential buyers should approach with caution. Overall, this is a solid leap forward from the abysmal Anchor Bay release and is highly recommended for dedicated horror fans seeking an improved home viewing experience.