The Legacy Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "The Legacy" by Scream Factory offers a 1080p transfer that is AVC encoded and presented in a 1.78:1 aspect ratio. Based on a new high-definition transfer from the interpositive, this presentation showcases substantial grain, particularly noticeable in selected scenes. The overall clarity and detail are commendable in well-lit exterior shots, offering sharp closeups that reveal distinct facial features and textured costumes. However, interior wide shots tend to be softer. The initial moments of the film exhibit a significant amount of age-related wear and tear, manifesting as warps, scratches, debris, and dirt that diminish as the film progresses.

Color reproduction maintains a natural 70s aesthetic, though it appears somewhat muted and faded at times. Outdoor scenes are more vibrant with colors that pop while interior scenes often render flesh tones anemic. Black levels are generally solid but occasionally obscure finer details in darker clothing or hair, although specific highlights like Sam Elliott's mustache appear impressively detailed. Compression issues are recurrent throughout various lighting conditions, leading to occasional blocking and splotchy yellowish artifacts that detract from the overall visual experience. Despite these imperfections, the makeup and gore effects are vividly portrayed, maintaining a cinematic fluidity in movement.

Depth is generally decent but may appear slightly flat in some outdoor scenes. Skin tones remain consistent and natural throughout the film, with close-ups showcasing freckles, wrinkles, scars, and makeup details impressively. The presentation could benefit from reduced grain in certain moments and improved black levels, but it still delivers a serviceable viewing experience for videophiles who appreciate the film's naturalistic approach and period-specific color palette.

The Blu-ray release of "The Legacy" is equipped with a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 stereo mix that effectively supports the film’s atmosphere. The mix ensures clear dialogue and clean sound effects, providing a seamless listening experience free of imperfections such as pops, cracks, and hiss. The audio presentation maintains a well-balanced horror track, layering ambient noises and sound effects with precision so they don't overlap. The resulting directionality enriches the viewing experience without becoming overpowering.

Moreover, the mix captures the haunting score by Michael J. Lewis effectively, ensuring it complements rather than overwhelms other audio elements. Fidelity is maintained with a relatively wide dynamic range, though it doesn't reach the extremes found in more exaggerated horror productions. The audio format delivers a trace of analog warmth that enhances the film's authentic feel, marking an engaging sonic experience for the audience. Overall, this audio presentation is commendable for its clarity and balance, adeptly supporting the film's narrative and atmospheric demands.

The Blu-ray extras for "The Legacy" offer a compelling collection of bonus features that enhance the viewing experience. Key highlights include an engaging interview with Anne V. Coates, where she delves into her illustrious career and shares intriguing anecdotes about her work on iconic films like "Lawrence of Arabia". Meanwhile, Robin Grantham's segment provides an amusing yet informative look at his special make-up effects contributions to the film, albeit some may find his thick accent slightly challenging to understand. Additionally, viewers can enjoy several promotional pieces, such as TV and radio spots, a theatrical trailer, and a photo gallery packed with behind-the-scenes stills and promotional art.

Extras included in this disc:

• Interview with Editor Anne V. Coates: A fascinating deep dive with the acclaimed editor behind "Lawrence of Arabia".
• Interview with Special Make-Up Effects Artist Robin Grantham: Insightful and humorous look at the film's special effects.
• TV Spot: A brief promotional piece aired on TV.
• Radio Spot: An audio trailer designed for radio broadcasts.
• Theatrical Trailer: The original movie trailer.
• Photo Gallery: A montage of promotional stills, headshots, and posters.

"The Legacy," directed by Richard Marquand, assembles an intriguing cast including Sam Elliott, Katharine Ross, Margaret Tyzack, and Roger Daltrey. The film features a bizarre plot of two California interior decorators who travel to England for a mysterious assignment. Upon arrival, the duo, portrayed by Elliott and Ross, encounters a string of improbable events leading to a lavish yet sinister estate owned by Jason Mountolive (John Standing), who harbors cryptic intentions. Despite the film's storyline often leaning towards implausibility, it exudes an unexpected charisma largely attributable to the notable performances of its ensemble cast.

The film spirals into an eerie horror thriller as guests at Mountolive's estate begin to die in bizarre, supernatural manners. These deaths are staged with a flair typical of Marquand's direction, adventurously blending supernatural elements and inventive death scenes that can sometimes evoke unintended humor. Notwithstanding a few lags in pacing, the narrative builds to a satisfying crescendo in the final act. Elliott’s rugged persona and Ross's horrified expressions anchor the storyline amidst the theatrical chaos, while Tyzack’s chillingly stern presence adds to the film’s gothic tension.

Performances are commendable, particularly Tyzack’s portrayal of the imperious Nurse Adams. Daltrey provides a memorable and amusing turn as a flamboyant record producer. The film’s stylistic flourishes are complemented by Marquand’s effective use of the English countryside as a haunting backdrop. While the plot may be criticized for predictability and inconsistent pacing, it compensates with high entertainment value, making "The Legacy" a curious relic of 70s horror, enjoyable for fans of the genre.

"The Legacy" on Blu-ray brings a nearly forgotten cult classic back to life with a mix of strengths and weaknesses, predominantly residing in the film's ability to deliver diverse moods. The movie interweaves traditional horror elements with soap operatic romance and whimsical comedy. However, it struggles to balance these diverse tones effectively, with the comedic aspects feeling underplayed, leading to a somewhat predictable and unsatisfying climax.

The technical merits of this Blu-ray release are noteworthy. While the video presentation is not particularly outstanding, it still holds up reasonably well. Where this edition shines is in its audio track, which ranges from very good to excellent, providing an immersive auditory experience. Scream Factory has also included a few valuable supplemental features that add genuine worth to this release, with interviews, particularly that of editor Anne V. Coates, standing out as highlights.

In conclusion, "The Legacy" may not fully achieve its potential as a horror-comedy hybrid, but it remains an intriguing piece of cinema that fans of the genre should consider. Despite its flaws, this Blu-ray offers a solid audiovisual experience and some compelling bonus content that makes it worth a look for curious film enthusiasts.