Horror Express Blu-ray Review

Arrow Video’s Blu-ray presentation of "Horror Express" stands out with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in its original 1.66:1 aspect ratio. Arrow Films has performed an exclusive restoration, which included a 2K scan of the original 35mm camera negative at Video Mercury, Spain, complemented by a 35mm interpositive element for Reel 5 scanned at R3Store Studios. This meticulous process, followed by grading on Digital Vision's Nucoda Film Master and restoration at R3Store Studios in London, ensures a well-balanced and vibrant presentation. The mono audio mix was remastered from the original mag reels at Deluxe Audio Services.

Visually, this transfer is a significant improvement over previous releases, notably the Severin edition. The cooler palette and natural-looking colors lend an appealing authenticity absent in earlier, overly boosted versions. The grain structure varies slightly due to different source elements, but maintains a consistent look overall. Noteworthy are the bright and natural colors that bring vibrancy to the costumes and set designs, enhancing the film's aesthetic richness. Facial definitions are sharp and detailed, maintaining textural integrity. Occasional moments of chunky grain are brief and primarily related to opticals within the film.

The print is in excellent condition, with limited gate weave and minor scratches mainly near the beginning. Any signs of fading have been eliminated, and the presentation achieves deep contrasts thanks to robust black levels. Cinematographer Alejandro Ulloa's work is showcased beautifully, with textures and details more pronounced than ever before. Highlights include the intricate details and rich colors in Peter Cushing’s smoking jacket, demonstrating the transfer’s ability to render nuances previously unnoticed. Overall, this 2K restoration delivers a visually striking and technically refined presentation of "Horror Express."

The audio presentation of "Horror Express" on the Arrow Blu-ray release significantly improves upon Severin's previous offering, delivering a serviceable and uncompressed LPCM mono mix in English. Dialogue is consistently rendered with clarity and precision, ensuring that viewers can follow the film without audio distraction. However, some minor issues persist, notably a hint of clipping in the higher frequencies, which is evident in parts of John Cacavas' main theme and some of the ambient wind sounds. While this distortion might detract slightly from the listening experience, it remains a minor inconvenience, unlikely to be noticed by all viewers.

Despite being uncompressed, the audio mix faces challenges in its high-frequency range, presenting occasional audible distortion at peaks. This issue impacts the entire soundtrack to some degree. Furthermore, the dialogue tends to sound muffled and rough at times, with the film's extensive use of post-production dubbing not always meeting optimal standards. This aspect may go beyond typical age-related degradation, hinting at more complex underlying issues with the original audio materials. Nevertheless, John Cacavas' score, which features an eerie, Euro-inspired style, remains a highlight, with the haunting whistle standing out despite these technical shortcomings. This release is undoubtedly the best audio version available for fans and newcomers alike.

The Blu-ray extras for "Horror Express" offer a comprehensive and engaging suite of supplemental materials that significantly enhance the viewing experience. With a new and insightful audio commentary by Stephen Jones and Kim Newman, the disc includes multiple appreciations and interviews that delve into the film's production and historical context. Highlights include Steve Haberman's and Ted Newsom's enlightening perspectives, along with detailed accounts from those such as co-writer/director Eugenio Martin and blacklisted producer Bernard Gordon. The archival interviews, complemented by an introduction from Chris Alexander and a well-crafted insert booklet, provide a rich tapestry of behind-the-scenes insights and personal anecdotes.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Features Stephen Jones and Kim Newman.
• Ticket to Die: An appreciation by filmmaker Steve Haberman.
• Train to Nowhere: Ted Newsom discusses his friendship with producer Bernard Gordon.
• Murder on the Trans-Siberian Express: Interview with co-writer and director Eugenio Martin.
• Notes from the Blacklist: Archival interview with producer Bernard Gordon.
• Telly and Me: Interview with composer John Cacavas.
• Introduction by Chris Alexander
• Theatrical Trailer

"Horror Express," a cult classic starring Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing, offers a unique blend of horror and science fiction wrapped in the charm of 1970s international cinema. The film propels viewers into a gripping narrative set largely aboard the Trans-Siberian Express, where Lee’s character, anthropologist Alexander Saxton, winds up transporting what he believes to be a prehistoric man – only for it to thaw and wreak havoc among the passengers. The creature, an extraterrestrial entity capable of draining brains of their information, injects a chilling urgency into the confined space, making it a riveting disaster movie. This amalgamation of genres—horror, sci-fi, espionage, and adventure—ensures that "Horror Express" is both eclectic and energetically entertaining.

Directed by Eugenio Martín, the film's rich tapestry is underpinned by an international cast and crew, which includes standout performances from Cushing as the rival scientist and Alberto de Mendoza as the fervent monk Father Pujardov. The movie's production background is just as colorful as its onscreen narrative: filmed in Spain by a Spanish director, written by two New Yorkers, and produced by a blacklisted Communist. The film also takes visual and thematic cues from Hammer horror films without being officially affiliated with the studio, capturing the same brashness, gore, and moral ambiguities typical of Hammer’s work. The visuals are supported by a clever use of minimalistic set designs by Ramiro Gomez, who redresses the same train car to recreate different scenes effectively.

The narrative explores broader existential questions of science versus religion in an almost theatrical setting that forces its characters into intense confrontations with both their beliefs and titular horrors. Adding to this chaotic brew, Telly Savalas delivers a scene-stealing performance as Cossack Captain Kazan. The script by Arnaud d’Usseau and Julian Zimet throws in everything from zombies to spies, making it both unpredictable and wildly engaging. The film’s innovative premise combined with expressions of early '70s cultural tensions ensures that "Horror Express" remains a magnetic piece of pulp entertainment.

Horror Express is a captivating blend of murder mystery and alien possession drama, featuring the iconic duo Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee. While it nods to the Hammer Horror aesthetic, it distinctly carves its own niche with a compellingly unique narrative. Though made on a modest budget, the film presents itself remarkably well, offering performances that oscillate between hyperbolic and thoroughly entertaining. This release from Arrow substantially enhances both the video and audio quality compared to previous editions, though it's worth noting the altered color timing for those familiar with the Severin release. The improvements make for a visually appealing viewing experience that old fans and new viewers alike will appreciate.

Arrow has reinforced the film’s presentation with a robust set of supplements, although it’s important to mention that some extras from other releases, such as a 1973 Peter Cushing interview and alternate international versions, are not included in this version. Despite these omissions, the array of included features adds significant value, providing deeper insights into this distinctive horror tale. The film's ability to fuse genres and balance between science fiction and theological discourse makes it an intriguing watch, even though it diverges from the more visceral, blood-driven horror of its time.

In conclusion, Horror Express may not epitomize high art, but it's undeniably a thrilling experience that doesn’t shy away from self-aware campiness. This edition from Arrow ensures a superb visual and auditory upgrade, making it a worthy addition to any horror aficionado’s collection. Whether you’re here for the nostalgic charm or the intriguing plot, it's a film that promises yearly revisits. With its exceptional transfer and thoughtfully curated extras, Arrow's Horror Express is highly recommended for its blend of fun and fright.