Extra Terrestrial Visitors Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Extra Terrestrial Visitors," provided by Severin Films, features a meticulous AVC encoded 1080p transfer in the 1.85:1 aspect ratio, sourced from a fresh 4K scan of the 35mm negative. The visual experience results in a compellingly vibrant palette, with primary colors notably popping, offering an engaging visual aesthetic. While the film does not achieve the supreme sharpness seen in Severin's parallel release, "Alien from the Abyss," it maintains an impressive visual fidelity throughout. This is particularly evident considering the movie's intentional misty and graded environments. Despite some macroblocking and slight posterization occasionally surfacing in forested scenes, the overall compression provides a secure and pleasing viewing experience.

Fine details and textures are especially commendable, capturing intricate nuances of the film's alien lifeforms against the backdrop of intentional cinematic haze. The film retains its natural film grain structure and manages to deliver a satisfying depth, despite some minor inconsistencies in black levels due to said haziness. Comparing this transfer to previous DVD releases and earlier versions, such as the one featured in Mystery Science Theater 3000, shows a significant improvement in clarity and depth, underscoring Severin's dedication to delivering high-quality restorations of cult favorites. Overall, this presentation effectively preserves the film's nostalgic and cinematic essence while enhancing visual detail through modern restoration techniques.

The Blu-ray release of "Extra Terrestrial Visitors" offers both English and Spanish DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Mono tracks, catering to a variety of audiences with distinct auditory preferences. While the difference between the two tracks is subtle, the Spanish track edges slightly ahead with a fuller midrange and low-end vibrancy. Both audio tracks are consistent in delivering a fluid auditory experience, although a minor background hiss is noticeable. Remarkably, dialogue across both tracks is crisp and clear, ensuring that viewers can follow the storyline effortlessly. Optional English subtitles are available, enhancing accessibility for non-native speakers.

Audio enthusiasts familiar with the film might gravitate towards the English track for its nostalgic dubbing moments, which add an entertaining layer to the viewing experience. However, the Spanish version may appeal to those seeking more natural-sounding voice performances. Both tracks carry the film's scoring and sound effects seamlessly, preserving the memorable, ominous synth quality of the music—a hallmark of the film. Particular attention has been paid to the rock song recording scene, which resonates even more powerfully in this Blu-ray release, evoking an immersive auditory experience described by some as feeling "the wind in your eyes". The availability of the song on the accompanying soundtrack CD further allows fans to enjoy this unique tune beyond the film or MST3K viewings.

The Blu-ray extras for "Extra Terrestrial Visitors" offer a comprehensive and engaging dive into the film's background and its creative masterminds. A significant highlight is The Simon's Jigsaw: A Journey Into the Universe of Juan Piquer Simón, which provides an in-depth exploration of the director's career, presented with English subtitles. A Weekend in Hell features a notable interview with actor Emilio Linder, filled with captivating insights about his experiences on set. Complementing these are Composing the Cosmos, shedding light on Librado Pastor's musical contributions, and A Private Concert from Librado Pastor, which adds a unique auditory charm with a live keyboard performance. Fans will appreciate the nostalgic nod of the Alternate Pod People Opening Credits, intriguingly mingling footage from another classic. Additionally, the package includes a four-track Soundtrack CD showcasing Ian Sera's vocal renditions.

Extras included in this disc:

• The Simon's Jigsaw: In-depth look into Juan Piquer Simón's career.
• A Weekend in Hell: Interview with Emilio Linder.
• Composing the Cosmos: Interview with composer Librado Pastor.
• A Private Concert from Librado Pastor: Live keyboard performance by Pastor.
• Alternate Pod People Opening Credits: Alternative opening credits featuring footage from The Galaxy Invader.
• CD Soundtrack Single: Four tracks sung by Ian Sera.

"Extra Terrestrial Visitors" is an intriguing anomaly in the realm of sci-fi and horror cinema. This film by Juan Piquer Simon challenges conventional genre boundaries, delivering an eccentric blend of elements that, while disjointed, proves to be engrossingly entertaining. At the heart of its narrative is a curious relationship between a young boy named Tommy (Óscar Martín) and his unusual alien friend with a comically endearing nickname. The plot, however, deviates significantly from a straightforward tale, weaving in bizarre narratives involving poachers and an ill-fated rock band, ultimately creating a patchwork of comedic and unintentional hilarity reminiscent of European cult films.

While the movie might appear to resemble Steven Spielberg's "E.T." due to its thematic parallels and even its marketing strategies at the time, its execution veers into the territory of a satirical tribute rather than a cash-in. It's noted for its tonal inconsistencies, swinging from child-friendly whimsy to surprisingly dark alien invasion horror, leaving audiences in comedic disarray. The dichotomy exists in the film's dual nature—a would-be horror tale intricately entangled with whimsical, albeit chaotic, storytelling resulting from production influences to appeal to a broader audience.

Interestingly, "Extra Terrestrial Visitors" thrived under the satirical spotlight of Mystery Science Theater 3000, gaining cult status for its weird mix and audacious storytelling choices. Its English dubbing amplifies its offbeat charm, inviting viewers to experience the film’s eccentricities through a lens of affectionate ridicule. Though the original Spanish track offers a slightly more coherent experience, it is the English version that fans have come to cherish for its over-the-top execution and innate ability to evoke laughter amongst groups. This Blu-ray release marks a new opportunity for aficionados to revisit the film's unique chaos with enhanced visual and audio fidelity, complete with a soundtrack that punctuates its bizarre allure.

The Blu-ray release of "Extra Terrestrial Visitors" merges nostalgia with unexpected charm, delivering a unique cinematic experience. Director Juan Piquor Simon embarked on creating a haunting sci-fi horror piece, but market dynamics transformed it into a whimsical yet eerie alien visitor adventure. The film, which deftly oscillates between these genres, remains memorable predominantly due to its quirky lead alien, Trumpy. Severin's Blu-ray edition elevates this cult classic with a visually and sonically enhanced presentation. The A/V quality is commendably vibrant, bringing the film’s distinct aesthetics to contemporary standards while maintaining its vintage spirit.

In addition to its improved audiovisuals, the disc features compelling bonus content, adding significant value to the collector’s edition. Though not as extensive as releases backed by familial insights, the supplemental materials remain insightful and entertaining. They provide intriguing behind-the-scenes glimpses and stories that bolster the allure of the film. While the release lacks an abundance of filmmaker-related extras, it compensates with unique merchandise for early buyers, tapping into both nostalgia and novelty for seasoned and new fans alike.

In conclusion, while "Extra Terrestrial Visitors" might not epitomize cinematic art, its blend of adventure and comedy makes it an engaging guilty pleasure. The Blu-ray expertly balances superb technical quality with a suite of supplements that cinephiles will find gratifying. Perfect for those who appreciate films that are unintentionally humorous yet enthralling, this Blu-ray is a delightful addition for genre enthusiasts.