Mill of the Stone Women Blu-ray Review

Arrow Video presents "Mill of the Stone Women" in a stunning Blu-ray edition, utilizing AVC encoded 1080p transfers in the original aspect ratio of 1.66:1. This significant release includes four versions of the film: the 96-minute Italian and English Export versions and the 90-minute French and 95-minute US versions, the latter presented on a separate disc. Each version stems from a meticulous 2K restoration, showcasing improvements from previous releases. The original 35mm negatives, scanned at L'Immagine Ritrovata in Bologna, ensure superior clarity and precision, particularly highlighting intricate textures and vivid costumes that enrich the visual experience.

The restoration process included additional 35mm intermediary elements for the English Export opening titles and supplemental scanned material for finalizing the French and US versions. Graded at R3Store Studios, London, these restorations exhibit minimal compression issues with film grain appearing natural and consistent throughout. The color palette is beautifully maintained, with subtle variations between versions; the French version carries a warmer hue, adding depth to the visual narrative. Any remaining imperfections, like slight synchronicity issues due to post-production dialogue recording, do not detract from the overall quality, making this a definitive rendition for home entertainment.

Overall, Arrow's Blu-ray release of "Mill of the Stone Women" marks a substantial upgrade over previous iterations. The expertly remastered mono sound from original negatives complements upgraded visuals. Despite minor complaints regarding a yellowish tint in some sections or title sequence discrepancies in quality, particularly the French version, this edition stands as an experiential pinnacle for film connoisseurs. Collectors and cinephiles will find it unmatched, delivering an authentic restoration that honors both the film's historical context and technical grandeur.

The Blu-ray release of "Mill of the Stone Women" offers impressive audio fidelity across its original Italian, English, and French LPCM Mono tracks, each with distinct characteristics that cater to various preferences. Audiophiles will appreciate the nuanced differences, particularly in the mix and frequency response. The Italian version is notably clean, providing strong support for Carlo Innocenzi’s evocative score, despite some flatness in the dubbing typical of the era. Conversely, the Export version is mellower with a more pronounced narrative score, although minor artifacts such as hiss and soft dropouts are present.

Each track benefits from a newly-restored presentation that enhances dialogue clarity and overall sound balance. Despite the occasional background hiss, particularly in the US and French versions, these elements rarely detract from the viewing experience. The US version presents a well-balanced soundtrack with more audible hiss, but maintains decent dubbing that aligns well with the film’s atmosphere. Throughout all versions, Innocenzi's score is consistently delivered with clarity, enriching the film’s immersive quality.

Overall, this two-disc set offers a commendable auditory experience. The attention to detail in restoring these mono tracks ensures that listeners receive a faithful rendition of the film’s original audio, accentuating dialogue and music effectively while maintaining an authentic period sound. Optional English subtitles are included to aid comprehension without detracting from the audio integrity. This release represents a significant enhancement in the film's home video audio presentation.

The Blu-Ray release of "Mill of the Stone Women" features an exemplary compilation of extras that admirably enhances the viewing experience for enthusiasts of Italian Gothic horror films. These meticulously curated additions provide an in-depth exploration of the film's artistic and historical context. Expert audio commentary by Tim Lucas elucidates the film's significance within Italian Horror, cast insights, and personal anecdotes. Kat Ellinger’s visual essay delves into the trope of women's statues in Gothic media. Notably, the archival featurette "Turned to Stone" compiles insightful interviews with actress Liana Orfei and historian Fabio Melelli. An engaging session with actor Wolfgang Preiss enriches the material with personal anecdotes from collaborations with prominent directors. The package is completed with alternate opening titles, trailers, and rich image galleries. An illustrated collector’s booklet further complements the technical insights and artistic comparisons.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary by Tim Lucas: Discusses the film’s significance in Italian Horror.
• Mill of the Stone Women and The Gothic Body: Visual essay by Kat Ellinger on Gothic horror dynamics.
• Turned to Stone: Featurette with interviews on the film’s legacy.
• A Little Chat with Dr. Mabuse: Interview with actor Wolfgang Preiss.
• Alternate Opening Titles
• UK Drops of Blood Titles
• German Titles
• Trailers: Including US and German Theatrical Trailers.
• Image Galleries: Collection of posters, lobby cards, and pressbooks.

"Mill of the Stone Women," directed by Giorgio Ferroni, stands as an intriguing artifact in the canon of Italian horror cinema, noted for its groundbreaking status as the first serious horror film shot in color in Italy. Set in early 20th-century Holland, the film follows Hans von Arnim, portrayed by Pierre Brice, as he explores the enigmatic windmill of Professor Gregorius Wahl to research macabre sculptures displayed in a carousel. The allure of gothic horror is palpable from the start, with settings evocatively crafted through mist-laden vistas and brooding windmills, creating an atmospherically rich tapestry reminiscent of Flemish painters' works and the visual lineage of "House of Wax" and "Vampyr." Tim Lucas notes the influence of these predecessors, underscoring the film's place within a longstanding gothic tradition.

Ferroni adeptly channels a mood that shifts between the beautiful and foreboding, a duality enhanced by Pier Ludovico Pavoni's cinematography. Although it may lack cohesion in its narrative structure, perhaps due to inconsistent pacing in various cuts, the film compensates with a captivating production design and striking lighting choices. There are even discussions suggesting Mario Bava may have contributed uncredited work, given the Bava-esque visual flair evident in certain sequences. Moreover, the film's overseas performance surpassed expectations; it notably outperformed Bava's "Black Sunday" at the 1960 Italian box office despite being overlooked by mainstream horror audiences initially.

The cast delivers compelling performances, with Scilla Gabel portraying Elfie, the afflicted daughter, oscillating convincingly between vulnerability and intrigue. The narrative weaves through themes of sinister scientific experimentation and aristocratic decadence, tied together by unsettling revelations about Elfie's ailment and the living sculptures. Ultimately, despite its initial financial disappointment, "Mill of the Stone Women" commands recognition as a pivotal work that laid groundwork for future Italian horror maestros like Mario Bava and Dario Argento.

Arrow Video's Blu-ray release of "Mill of the Stone Women" stands as a meticulous assembly, catering to both cinephiles and collectors. This classic cornerstone of Italian horror is presented in high-definition through the exceptional transfer of four distinct versions of the film, supported by robust technical processing that enhances its eerie visual style and establishes a haunting ambiance. Arrow's package includes an impressive breadth of special features. Notable highlights are insightful essays by Roberto Curti and Brad Stevens, detailing the film's historical and cultural significance, as well as its various adaptations over time. A comprehensive booklet, alongside striking reversible artwork, lends additional collector appeal.

The release is intentionally crafted in a clear amaray case and features lobby card reproductions, offering nostalgia and depth to the experience. The reversible cover art by Adam Rabalais, paired with poster works from both Belgian and US theatrical releases, adds a visually enriching dimension. Further enriching this release is a double-sided poster and a 60-page insert booklet accentuating cast, crew, and restoration details. Such features corroborate the film's legacy and invite audiences to explore dimensions beyond its captivating narrative.

Conclusively, Tim Lucas's audio commentary enriches the viewing experience with valuable context and background, significantly enhancing understanding of this seminal work in Italian horror cinema. While some plot elements may elicit critique for lack of depth, the film captivates with its remarkable stylistic execution. Arrow Video's edition not only upliftingly reintroduces "Mill of the Stone Women" to new audiences but also elevates it as an indispensable item for collectors. With solid technical merits and a substantial suite of bonus features, this release is highly recommended and signifies an essential upgrade from previous DVD versions.