Return of the Fly Blu-ray Review

The video presentation of "Return of the Fly" on this MPEG-4 AVC-encoded BD-50 disc impressively renders the original theatrical aspect ratio of approximately 2:35:1. The transfer appears to be derived from the same master used by Shout! Factory for their 2014 release, albeit with some variance in bitrates. Specifically, Scream has encoded the feature at a mean video bitrate of 36000 kbps, an improvement over the earlier disc's 32888 kbps. This results in excellent sharpness and clarity, particularly visible in scenes such as Philippe Delambre's shiny hair in the rain. The stability of the image and consistent grain add a film-like quality, although very minor white specks and a light scratch in one scene (evident on Philippe's face) slightly temper the perfection.

Additionally, the Cinemascope image on this transfer is well-preserved with minimal dust and no significant damage. The restoration has maintained a superb filmic appearance, retaining pure and rich grain texture. While slight harshness and mild edge ringing are noticeable, especially during scenes involving harsh lighting contrasts, they do not detract significantly from the viewing experience. The contrast is particularly noteworthy, delivering a wide and perfect grayscale range, although minor crushing is detected in some darker scenes, like the initial car ride involving Price and Halsey. Notably, the brightness peaks strikingly during matter transportation scenes, creating almost nuclear-like flashes. Close-ups reveal high fidelity with preserved facial textures and detailed nuances such as the tiny hairs on the Fly's head.

The "Return of the Fly" Blu-ray audio presentation, courtesy of Scream Factory, is delivered via a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mix at 1614 kbps, 24-bit. Despite the bitrate being slightly lower at 2081 kbps on the second disc due to the inclusion of two additional commentaries, there is no discernible drop in audio quality. The track preserves the film's original monaural presentation with clarity and precision. Optional English SDH subtitles can be conveniently activated through the menu or via remote, ensuring accessibility for all viewers.

While the track might sound slightly coarse in the treble range, it captures the essence of the film's original audio with commendable fidelity. Dialog is sharply defined, and the moody score comes through with robust low frequencies that enhance the viewing experience. Notably, the audio peaks during experimental scenes, where the DTS-HD stereo handles crackling static and piercing sounds with proficiency, maintaining the immersive atmosphere essential to the film's suspenseful moments.

The extras on the Blu Ray of "Return of the Fly" present an impressive collection of insights and historical context, blending commentary from notable figures in the genre with nostalgic promotional materials. Notably, there are three audio commentaries: actor David Frankham, who played the villain Ronald Holmes, offers a witty and engaging recollection process moderated by Jonathan David Dixon; Tom Weaver, a renowned sci-fi horror author, provides detailed production facts and thoughtful critiques on both the original film and its sequel; and Brett Halsey, who stars as Philippe Delambre, along with historian David Del Valle, supplies a more relaxed yet informative discussion. Additional features include period-specific trailers and a still gallery that highlights posters, lobby cards, and behind-the-scenes shots.

Extras included in this disc:

• NEW Audio Commentary with Actor David Frankham and Jonathan David Dixon: Engaging recollections from Frankham with Dixon moderating.
• NEW Audio Commentary with Author/Film Historian Tom Weaver: Detailed production facts and critiques from Weaver.
• Audio Commentary with Actor Brett Halsey and Film Historian David Del Valle: Relaxed, informative discussion from Halsey and Del Valle.
• Theatrical Trailer: Cropped and pillarboxed original trailer.
• TV Spot: Aired in 1959, includes "The Alligator People" teaser.
• Still Gallery: Showcases posters, lobby cards, black-and-white press kit photos, and on-set stills.

Edward Bernds's "Return of the Fly" (1959) unfolds as a sequel well-rooted in standard sci-fi horror conventions. Distinguished primarily by the return of Vincent Price, who here spends much of his screen time either off-camera or immobilized in bed, the film gravitates around the mutated son of Andre Delambre, Phillipe (Brett Halsey). The narrative diverges from its predecessor, "The Fly," which was an allegory-laden piece, shifting focus to the tangible horrors stemming from scientific experimenting for personal gain. Phillipe's quest for revenge against the selfish scientist Alan Hinds (David Frankham), who caused his transformation, propounds an interesting if somewhat thin thematic exploration. This sequel eschews condemning scientific curiosity itself, centering criticism rather on those who exploit scientific advancements for nefarious purposes.

A notable point of interest is the film’s treatment of the creature effects. Bernds’ decision to amplify the scale of the fly mask leads to Phillipe resembling a bobblehead more than a menacing monster. This results in moments where the absurdity overpowers any intended horror, with scenes depicting scuffles that expose the impracticality of the oversized prop. The mutation now includes a dramatic gigantism effect, which, while it intensifies visual impact, at times betrays the integrity of character interactions and action scenes. Despite these shortcomings, "Return of the Fly" does present sporadic glimpses of deeper themes, particularly Phillipe's disturbing contemplation over retaining his humanity and Price's existential query about whether eliminating a scientific aberration equates to murder.

Interestingly, Edward Bernds, best known for his work on Three Stooges and Bowery Boys shorts, directs with a background more comedy-centric than typically expected for such a genre piece. Nonetheless, compared to Bernds' other forays into sci-fi like "Valley of the Dragons" and "Queen of Outer Space," "Return of the Fly" is relatively more accomplished. The film leans on well-established horror motifs from past Universal Monster sequels and other creature features, providing a nostalgic sci-fi horror experience for genre enthusiasts.

Return of the Fly is a sequel that treads familiar, albeit reliable, ground in the monster movie genre. While it lacks the thematic depth of its predecessor, it delivers a competent continuation with Vincent Price reprising his role with conviction. The narrative maintains a straightforward trajectory, focusing on the son of the original scientist, which avoids convolutions but misses opportunities for more substantial exploration of its themes.

The Blu-ray release by Scream Factory replicates the previous transfer and audio presentation from the Vincent Price box set, delivering an adequate visual and auditory experience. However, what sets this edition apart are the two new commentaries. These additions provide fresh insights and enrich the viewing experience with their diverse content. The technical aspects of this Blu-ray are solid, ensuring that the film's gothic charm and atmospheric tension are well preserved.

If you own Return of the Fly from the Vincent Price box set five years ago, you'll want to consider getting the new box set so you can enjoy this disc too. While Scream Factory offers largely the same transfer and audio presentation, it includes two new commentaries that are both worth listening to with different quality content. I like the film a little more than Jeff and RECOMMEND it while the disc as a whole receives a VERY SOLID RECOMMENDATION.