Prince of Darkness Blu-ray Review

The 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation of "Prince of Darkness" from Scream Factory delivers a video quality that is undeniably the finest the film has ever looked on home video, boasting an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in the original 2.35:1 aspect ratio. The transfer honors Gary B. Kibbe’s anamorphic photography with a strong, detailed, and colorful output. Despite this high definition treatment revealing a more pronounced softness in certain elements and occasional smearing in background details, it succeeds in showcasing fine definitions in close-ups, from the keenly presented swarming ants to the clearly legible ancient text. The enhanced depth and three-dimensionality, coupled with a rich color palette, particularly the striking greens, reds, and warm skin-tones, provide a visually captivating experience. Nonetheless, viewers should brace for some digital tinkering, including unnecessary edge enhancement and noise that occasionally detract from the overall clarity.

Where the presentation shines further is in its management of black levels and contrast. Deep and consistent blacks contribute significantly to the mood and atmosphere of the image, with midnight blues transitioning smoothly, adding to the film’s ominous visual tone. Despite an increase in contrast which introduces a somewhat comic-book aesthetic to the film, enhancing its unearthly glow, the alteration also contributes to slight issues like blooming highlights and visible haloing around objects. Moreover, while the grain structure remains mostly intact preserving the film's original texture, instances of overzealous filtering render the picture artificially enhanced at times.

In summary, while this high-definition transfer represents a monumental improvement over previous home video editions offering unparalleled clarity and resolution, it is not without its flaws. The digital enhancements and instances of over-filtering garner mixed feelings, leaving room for speculation on how a less manipulated transfer could have looked. Despite some visual compromises, the presentation remains a visually stunning reawakening of "Prince of Darkness," boasting vibrant colors, impressive detail, and commendable depth that likely makes this the best version available to fans since its cinema screening, albeit imperfect.

The audio presentation of "Prince of Darkness" on 4K UHD Blu-ray offers two distinct listening experiences via DTS-HD MA 2.0 and 5.1 soundtracks, catering to both purists and those desiring a modern surround mix. The 5.1 option elevates John Carpenter's haunting score with a significantly enhanced low end, making every sinister note of the synth-driven compositions pulse with a newfound vigor. Surround channels are judiciously used, mainly amplifying the score and select atmospheric effects, creating immersive moments that underscore the film's tense atmosphere. Even so, dialogue remains crystal clear across both mixes, ensuring that every whispered horror and piece of eerie theorizing cuts through with precision, from Donald Pleasance's gravely intonations to Victor Wong's unique rasp.

Despite occasional critiques of the 5.1 mix for potentially overpowering low frequencies and at times over-emphasized rear channel activity, it provides the soundstage a menacing depth, particularly in its rendering of the film's more grotesque and jarring sounds—ranging from the disturbing squelch of devil-juice to the metallic screeches of telekinetic mayhem. The 2.0 track, while more faithful to the film's original Ultra Stereo presentation, impresses with its wide soundstage and dynamic range, showcasing Carpenter and Howarth’s score with clarity and fidelity that truly envelops the listener. This mix strikes a balance, maintaining a respectful nod to the original while delivering a richly detailed and engaging auditory experience.

Both audio options display an exceptional attention to detail in restoring and presenting the film's sound. They each offer their unique advantages: the 5.1 mix for those seeking a more enveloping experience and the 2.0 for aficionados aiming for authenticity and a clean, precise sound. It’s evident that considerable effort was invested to ensure that both tracks are free of hiss, crackle, or dropouts, ultimately delivering a pair of soundtracks that enhance the spine-chilling atmosphere Carpenter envisioned. Regardless of preference, listeners are treated to a compelling auditory experience that stands strong alongside other aspects of this carefully crafted release.

Scream Factory's 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Prince of Darkness" not only upgrades the visual and auditory experience for the audience but also packs an impressive array of extras that significantly enrich the viewing experience. The release is encapsulated in a slipcase featuring reversible artwork, which is a nice touch for collectors. Notably, the audio commentary with director John Carpenter and actor Peter Jason stands out for its blend of humor, insight into the filmmaking process, and candid revelations, making it more than just a casual watch. The plethora of new interviews, including with Carpenter, Alice Cooper, and others involved in the production, offer a comprehensive look into both the creative and technical sides of making "Prince of Darkness." Moreover, the inclusion of "Horror's Hallowed Grounds," offering a tour of the film's locations, adds a unique layer of appreciation for the film's setting. The extras are thoughtful and cater to both new audiences and long-time fans, making this release a definitive edition for one of Carpenter’s more philosophical horror ventures.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: A conversation with John Carpenter and Peter Jason.
• Sympathy for the Devil: An interview with John Carpenter.
• Alice at the Apocalypse: Alice Cooper talks about his role.
• The Messenger: Robert Grasmere discusses his parts in front and behind the camera.
• Hell on Earth: Exploring the film's score with Alan Howarth.
• Alternate Opening from TV Version: Offers an edited opening sequence.
• Horror's Hallowed Ground: A tour of the film's shooting locations by Sean Clark.
• Trailer and Radio Spots: Original promotional materials.
• Still Gallery: A collection of behind-the-scenes photos and promotional images.
• Prince of Darkness 25th Anniversary Screening: A Q&A session with John Carpenter.

John Carpenter's "Prince of Darkness," showcased in stunning 4K UHD Blu-ray presentation, elicits a divisive reception that speaks to its unconventional approach to horror. Embracing both theoretical physics and theological elements, the film ventures into a narrative realm where science and religion collide, delving into the existence of pure evil manifested in a strange, swirling green liquid contained in a cylinder hidden within an abandoned LA church. This film, the second installment in Carpenter's Apocalypse Trilogy, daringly questions whether modern science can decipher ancient prophecies of an evil force, thereby crafting a peculiar yet fascinating intersection of genres.

Despite its ambitions, "Prince of Darkness" struggles with clarity and coherence, presenting a script that occasionally falters under the weight of its own complexity. The ensemble cast, including standout performances by Victor Wong and Donald Pleasence, grapples with dialogue that sometimes borders on the ludicrous, undermining the potentially profound philosophical undercurrents the film aims to explore. This confluence of daunting scientific jargon and quasi-religious lore creates an uneven narrative landscape, further complicated by Carpenter's own admission of ambiguity concerning some plot points. Nevertheless, the film captivates with visually hypnotic sequences and commendable cinematography by Gary Kibbe, reinforcing Carpenter’s capability to construct authentically eerie atmospheres.

Moreover, while "Prince of Darkness" might not deliver consistent scares, it successfully maintains a pervasive sense of dread, augmented by Carpenter's signature synth score. The inclusion of unexpected elements, like Alice Cooper leading a horde of zombie-like vagrants, injects a distinctively eccentric tone. Over time, this movie has metamorphosed from a critically panned piece into a cult classic, appreciated for its audacity to merge disparate concepts and its ability to still unsettle audiences. Despite its flaws and perhaps because of them, "Prince of Darkness" stands as an essential component of Carpenter’s oeuvre, rewarding viewers willing to embrace its unique blend of horror, science, and spirituality.

"Prince of Darkness," a pivotal entry in John Carpenter's esteemed oeuvre, emerges as a polarizing concoction of horror and philosophy, coupled with a visual and auditory spectacle characteristic of Carpenter's hypnotic style. The 4K UHD Blu-ray release by Scream Factory, lauded for its meticulous treatment of classic films, enhances this divisive piece with a presentation that amplifies its atmospheric tension. However, critiques highlight an overzealous video enhancement that may not sit well with purists seeking a more authentic transfer. Despite its narrative shortcomings and occasional lapse into corniness, the film’s ambitious meld of scientific concepts and apocalyptic dread, supported by a stellar synth score and the sinister charm of Donald Pleasence alongside Victor Wong, endures as a testament to Carpenter’s audacious creative vision. Notably, the inclusion of high-quality extras offers fans profound insights into the film's production and Carpenter's intent, enriching the viewing experience.

While the film itself may not rank among Carpenter's most universally acclaimed works, it boasts sufficient nightmare-inducing imagery and a sufficiently creepy vibe to satisfy long-time horror aficionados. The blu-ray benefits from an exceptional audio presentation and a bevy of engaging bonus content, making it a compelling acquisition for dedicated followers and casual observers alike. Concerns regarding the picture quality's fidelity to the original cinematic experience persist yet are offset by the overall excellence of Scream Factory's offering. Admirers of Carpenter's “Apocalypse Trilogy” will find this installment an indispensable, albeit imperfect, component of their collection.

In conclusion, the 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Prince of Darkness" by Scream Factory is a remarkable tribute to one of John Carpenter's more contentious yet undeniably intriguing films. While not without its flaws—both in terms of the movie's pacing and narrative coherence, as well as the transfer's fidelity—the release shines with its superior audiovisual presentation and wealth of supplementary material. It stands as an essential acquisition for Carpenter enthusiasts and a noteworthy, if nuanced, addition for cinephiles appreciating the melding of horror with deep thematic explorations. This release underscores Scream Factory's dedication to celebrating genre-defining cinema, despite any perceptible imperfections, making "Prince of Darkness" a compelling, albeit complex, piece of film history.