Microwave Massacre Blu-ray Review

Arrow Video delivers "Microwave Massacre" on Blu-ray with an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1. The restoration, conducted by Deluxe Restoration in London, utilized the original 35mm camera negative scanned in 2K on a pin-registered Arriscan, with grading completed on a Baselight system. Audio was meticulously transferred and conformed from the original tape masters. This process involved considerable digital restoration, addressing thousands of instances of dirt, debris, and light scratches. Image stability and density fluctuations were significantly improved, leading to an overall enhanced viewing experience.

Given the film's low-budget origins, the transfer is particularly impressive. Outdoor scenes benefit the most, showcasing bright environments where the palette pops pleasingly and details in close-ups remain sharp. However, there is a certain heterogeneous appearance in various sections due to fluctuating clarity and grain structures. Darker sequences can appear quite chunky, with notable compression issues in some optical effects. Despite these minor drawbacks, the transfer is commendable for its clean appearance, devoid of significant scratches or flecks that might detract from overall enjoyment. Fans of the film will find this high-definition presentation satisfying, handsomely balancing the original aesthetic with modern visual standards.

The audio presentation of "Microwave Massacre" on Blu Ray offers an English mono soundtrack delivered via LPCM. While not an audiophile's dream, the overall sound quality is respectable. The low-frequency hum of the microwave oven is articulated with a fair amount of force, though it lacks depth. Dialogue clarity is consistent across both studio-set scenes and on-location construction site scenes, ensuring an uninterrupted auditory experience.

Leif Horvath's score, which accompanies the film, generally sounds acceptable. However, it suffers from subpar music editing; multiple cues are abruptly cut off mid-phrase during scene transitions, which detracts from the overall listening experience. Despite these inconsistencies, the score itself is variably effective in complementing the film’s atmosphere. While not exemplary, the mix is serviceable for what it offers, maintaining the integrity of effects and dialogue throughout the presentation.

The Blu Ray of "Microwave Massacre" delivers a satisfying array of extras that enhance the viewing experience with insightful content and engaging commentary. The highlight is a 2015 interview series titled “My Microwave Massacre Memoirs,” providing essential background through candid discussions with Craig Muckler, Wayne Berwick, and Loren Schein. The visual presentation of extras maintains high quality, offering an image gallery and an original trailer in 1080p resolution, ensuring clear and pristine viewing. Furthermore, the audio commentary by Craig Muckler, hosted by Mike Tristano, though listed incorrectly on the disc menu, brings a lively and comprehensive insight into the film's production. Additionally, fans can appreciate the informative insert booklet, which includes an essay, stills, and details about the transfer, rounding out this well-curated collection.

Extras included in this disc:

• My Microwave Massacre Memoirs: 2015 interviews with Craig Muckler, Wayne Berwick, and Loren Schein.
• Image Gallery: High-resolution stills from the movie.
• Trailer: Original promotional trailer.
• Audio Commentary: Craig Muckler discusses the film, hosted by Mike Tristano.

"Microwave Massacre" (1983) is a controversial and politically incorrect horror comedy that divides audiences. For some, it qualifies as a guilty pleasure; for others, it’s disposable trash. The narrative revolves around Donald (Jackie Vernon), a beleaguered construction worker whose dissatisfaction with his nagging wife May and her abysmal cooking culminates in a homicidal frenzy. When Donald lethally "solves" his domestic woes and inadvertently discovers the culinary delight of human flesh, his life spirals into bizarre cannibalistic escapades.

The film’s execution, however, leaves much to be desired. Cannibalism, the ostensibly central theme, takes a backseat for the first 30 minutes, replaced by a meandering sequence of disjointed comedic attempts. Some scenes, such as the inexplicably buxom beauty nudging her assets through a construction site hole, add a layer of unpolished and forced humor. Jackie Vernon’s portrayal of Donald offers a hangdog charm but is insufficient compensation for the flimsy script and underdeveloped characters. Supporting roles and subplots, like the oddball neighbors and intrusively curious characters, fail to gain traction, resulting in missed opportunities for comedic impact.

Further complicating its appeal, "Microwave Massacre" liberally employs politically incorrect humor that might strike contemporary viewers as tactlessly outdated. The film teeters precariously between dark comedy and sheer absurdism without ever finding its footing. Donald's actions, particularly towards his wife May, paint an unsettling portrait that inadvertently subverts the intended dark humor. Despite its attempts at shock value and slapstick, the movie often finds itself in a quagmire of ineffective writing and aimless storytelling. Ultimately, "Microwave Massacre" is a cinematic oddity whose lasting impression is not as enduringly hilarious as it might aspire to be.

Microwave Massacre, released on Blu-ray, is an obscure example of American-made cannibalism comedy. The film features a unique, albeit poorly executed, premise that blends horror and comedy. Despite its attempts at satire, the film suffers from weak writing and some less-than-stellar performance choices. Arrow’s Blu-ray edition, however, offers a technically accomplished transfer with clean visuals and sound, ensuring that fans of the genre can enjoy the film in high quality. The supplementary materials provided by Arrow are also noteworthy, offering additional context and enhancing the viewing experience for enthusiasts.

Though not widely known even among seasoned horror fans, Microwave Massacre delivers some unexpectedly entertaining moments. While the humor often misses its mark, the sheer absurdity of its one-liners offers a peculiar charm that might amuse dedicated followers of niche cinema. At a brisk 76 minutes, the film doesn't overstay its welcome but does feel longer due to its pacing issues and uneven scene execution. Still, for those intrigued by unconventional horror comedies, it merits at least one viewing.

If you see only one American-made cannibalism comedy this year, you'd probably do better with Eating Raoul than with Microwave Massacre (there are of course foreign films about cannibalism like Delicatessen, not to mention totally outré outings like Cannibal! The Musical). This is a film that has a decent enough premise but simply suffers from ham-handed (sorry) writing and some ineffective performance choices. Fans of the film should be well pleased with the technical merits of this release, and as usual, Arrow has assembled some enjoyable supplements.