Thundercrack! Blu-ray Review

Synapse Films has impressively restored "Thundercrack!" to the Blu-ray format using a 16mm print, as the original negative remains lost. The AVC encoded image, presented in a 1.33:1 aspect ratio, provides viewers with a detailed and immersive depiction of the film's black and white imagery. Despite the inherent limitations of the 16mm source, the restoration team has tamed most of the challenging visuals effectively. Delineation is secure, allowing for a comprehensible survey of darker frames, while periodically bloomy whites maintain an approachable balance. Some mild artifacting and unavoidable source damage are present but do not distract from the overall viewing experience.

The image's clarity and detail are particularly noteworthy. Synapse's work yields a surprisingly crisp and detailed presentation, permitting close inspection of graphic elements, including sexuality and cartoonish make-up. The depth achieved within this 1080p resolution is commendable, ensuring smooth and clean movements that impart a sense of spatial freedom for characters within scenes. Black levels are rich and serve to enhance shadow details without losing detail to source-related issues. Skin tones remain consistently white, with evident textures such as stubble, wrinkles, blemishes, and make-up even from various distances. Despite some grain, dirt, and specs, the overall presentation remains an impressive testament to the capabilities of Synapse Films' restoration efforts.

The 2.0 DTS-HD MA sound mix for "Thundercrack!" faces significant inherent audio challenges, including noticeable range limitations throughout the presentation. Despite these challenges, Synapse has delivered a soundscape that, while not exceptional, is satisfactory given the source material. Dialogue is the primary focus and is presented clearly, though it sometimes sounds intentionally muted. There is a presence of fuzziness, hiss, and pops, yet the overall stability of the audio remains acceptable. The scoring, though not highly defined, integrates seamlessly into the film's chaotic aura, complemented by sound effects that retain a naturalistic and animalistic quality.

The English 2.0 Mono DTS-HD MA track exhibits a separation and balance of vocals, effects, and music that is commendable under the circumstances. Detailed documentation accompanies the audio production, highlighting the painstaking efforts to preserve the analog charm of the original recording, replete with occasional hisses and pops. Low Frequency Extension and Surround Sound Presentation are not applicable in this mix, given its mono nature. However, dialogue reproduction stands out; it is well-captured with a full sound and appropriately balanced volume throughout. As expected with older sources, some inherent noise remains, but it does add an authentic touch to the film's overall auditory experience.

In summary, while the 2.0 DTS-HD MA mix for "Thundercrack!" doesn't achieve remarkable breakthroughs in audio fidelity, it manages to deliver a respectable and true-to-source sound experience, acknowledging the film's historical context and inherent audio imperfections.

The Blu-ray extras for "Thundercrack!" present a comprehensive deep dive into the film's history, creation, and cultural context, making this release a valuable gem for aficionados of underground cinema. The compilation includes interviews, outtakes, behind-the-scenes footage, and an extensive documentary focusing on the Kuchar brothers. Digitally restored content enriches the viewer's experience, providing vital background information imperative for fully appreciating this avant-garde classic. With a blend of graphics enhancements and historical casting insights, the extras package respects both the filmmaker's vision and the audience's expectations for quality supplemental material.

Extras included in this disc:

• Vintage Audio Interview with Director Curt McDowell: Plays like a commentary track with the movie.
• It Came From Kuchar: Feature-length documentary on George and Mike Kuchar with interviews by renowned directors.
• Original Theatrical Trailer: A glimpse into the marketing approach for "Thundercrack!".
• Interviews (2004): Conversations with George Kuchar, Marion Eaton, and Mark Ellinger.
• San Francisco Bay Area Filmmakers (1976): Local showcase exploring "Thundercrack!".
• Outtakes & Behind-the-Scenes Footage: Raw takes providing insights into the creative process.
• Sex Scene Outtakes: Unbroken takes of explicit scenes.
• Original Cast Audition Footage: Early images of cast members and aspiring actors.
• Short Films Directed By Curt McDowell: Includes "Confessions", "Naughty Words", "Loads", "Boggy Depot", and "Siamese Twin Pinheads".

"Thundercrack!" delivers a quintessential underground movie experience from the 1970s, epitomizing the era's unhinged creativity and refusal to adhere to mainstream cinematic norms. Directed by Curt McDowell, with a screenplay by George Kuchar, this film is an experimental juxtaposition of melodrama and hardcore pornography. The plot circles around a stormy night where strangers converge in an isolated Nebraskan house, leading to a series of surreal, often explicit encounters. McDowell and Kuchar stretch this sensory overload over a 159-minute runtime, intentionally obliterating any semblance of a breezy viewing experience. Their deep dive into repressed sexuality, power dynamics, and bizarre scenarios manifests through an unflinching portrayal of carnal exploration.

Narratively, "Thundercrack!" is sparse on traditional structure, relying instead on a charged atmosphere and escalating absurdity to maintain engagement. The film features a cast of characters embroiled in sexual escapades amidst vomiting and bizarre outbursts, often pushing the boundaries of taste and endurance. Confronting subjects from secretive acts to graphic intimacies, the film maintains a relentless curiosity about anatomy over pure sensuality. The addition of circus animals and eccentric plot twists further amplifies the madness, making it clear that the production's aim is to assault conventional sensibilities.

This film's length and disjointed pacing create a formidable challenge for viewers, often testing patience with its drawn-out segments. Despite potential cuts that could have streamlined the experience, McDowell remained insistent on his vision, resulting in a piece that feels simultaneously tedious and audacious. For those steeped in vintage erotica or intrigued by avant-garde cinema, "Thundercrack!" may be a mesmerizing curiosity. Otherwise, its exhaustive runtime and intense content render it a cinematic endurance test, appealing more as a cult "dare" than a typical viewing pleasure.

"Thundercrack!" is a truly unique film experience that straddles the line between art and explicit content. The directorial approach of Curt McDowell brings to light an intriguing mix of silent film techniques and exaggerated 2-D backgrounds, creating a vivid dreamscape. Despite some amateurish performances, the cast's passion and engagement with the material allow the film to shine through its more excessive moments. While it may not be a defining example of the underground movie movement, "Thundercrack!" certainly holds its place as a valuable artifact, showcasing bold directorial and screenwriting ambition.

The recent Blu-ray release of "Thundercrack!" is a testament to Synapse Films' commitment to preserving cinematic rarities. The video transfer is nothing short of phenomenal, elevating the visual experience well beyond expectations for a film of this age and genre. The wealth of extras included in the release further enriches the value of this edition, making it a prized possession for collectors. However, it's important to note that the film's 160-minute running time and overtly adult content are not for everyone. It is clearly positioned towards enthusiasts of rare and erotic cinema rather than a general audience.

In conclusion, "Thundercrack!" remains an interesting blend of creativity and raw excess. While it may be excessively long and not appeal to all tastes, those interested in its unique artistic vision or in collecting rare underground films will find Synapse Films' Blu-ray release to be a worthwhile acquisition. The quality of the transfer and the comprehensive extras solidify it as a standout edition, ensuring that this obscure film continues to be appreciated by its niche audience.