Cult of the Cobra Blu-ray Review

The 2K mastered AVC encoded image for the Blu-ray presentation of "Cult of the Cobra" (aspect ratio 1.85:1) provides a slightly softer viewing experience while maintaining appreciable detail. Textures in costuming, ranging from wool suits to cult outfits, are distinct, and the snake's rubbery surfaces are well represented. Facial details show age and makeup nuances, with adequate shadow delineation that enhances the film’s atmospheric scenes. The grain is film-like and consistent, contributing to a natural cinematic feel. The source material, while showing some mild speckling and scratches, remains in decent condition and allows for a favorable viewing experience.

Presented by Scream/Shout Factory, this Blu-ray debut boasts a high-definition image that, despite occasional inconsistencies attributable to the aging source, presents details occasionally exceeding expectations. Close-ups reveal high fidelity textures that showcase the resolution’s potential, and dense black levels add significant depth to the imagery. There is minimal clipping in the brightest areas, which is not overly distracting, while grayscale gradients are maintained cleanly, giving the cinematography an energy boost. The print exhibits few complications, with scratches being minor and rare. Restoration efforts effectively eliminated dirt and instability issues, providing a stable viewing experience devoid of gate weave. Despite not being a 4K master, it delivers a commendable presentation for this era’s standards.

The 1.0 DTS-HD Master Audio sound mix for "Cult of the Cobra" Blu-ray provides a reasonably clear listening experience, despite its age. Dialogue exchanges are crisply rendered and maintain expressive nuances, making individual performances and group interactions easily discernible. While there are instances of mild hiss and scattered popping, these do not significantly detract from the overall listening experience. The score, while mostly stock, offers sufficient instrumentation that supports the suspenseful elements effectively.

High frequencies, including cymbal clashes, exhibit excellent clarity, enhancing the film's atmospheric tension. Although the low frequencies lack substantial punch, this is an expected limitation given the age and limitations of the original audio source. Remarkably, the DTS-HD track minimizes defects such as static and popping, mirroring the visual restoration's success in eliminating dirt and damage. This mix renders the classic film's audio with a fidelity that preserves its historical essence while providing a satisfying auditory experience for contemporary viewers.

The Blu-ray extras for "Cult of the Cobra" offer a compelling blend of historical insight and nostalgic memorabilia. The expert commentary by renowned film historians Tom Weaver, Steve Kronenberg, David Schecter, and Dr. Robert J. Kiss provides in-depth analysis and fascinating production details. A well-curated image gallery includes a collection of publicity shots, film stills, poster art, and lobby cards, capturing the visual essence of the era. Additionally, there are T.V. Spots and a theatrical trailer that provide a nostalgic look back at the film's original marketing efforts. This robust selection enriches the viewing experience with both educational and entertaining content.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: Features film historians Tom Weaver, Steve Kronenberg, David Schecter, and Dr. Robert J. Kiss.
• Image Gallery: Collects publicity shots, film stills, poster art, and lobby cards.
• T.V. Spots: Four commercials for "Cult of the Cobra," paired with "Revenge of the Creature."
• Theatrical Trailer: Included.

1955's "Cult of the Cobra" navigates a post-WWII narrative set in a vaguely defined "Asia," establishing an exotic cultural backdrop that is integral to the film's premise. The story follows six American officers who, after witnessing a forbidden ritual, are cursed by a cobra-worshiping cult and subsequently hunted down upon their return to New York. The premise, on paper, suggests potential for significant suspense, but director Francis D. Lyon opts for a character-driven approach over tangible horror, leading to a somewhat underwhelming experience.

Faith Domergue manifests as the enigmatic Lisa, whose unnerving presence threads through the narrative. Her ability to transform into a cobra, although pivotal to the plot, is minimally shown—a decision perhaps influenced by budgetary constraints or practical effects limitations. Bud Westmore's contribution to the special effects is limited to occasional rubber snake appearances and shadow manipulation, which unfortunately does little to elevate the horror quotient. The film leans more into conversations and relationship tensions than visceral scares, rendering it a semi-slasher with sparse excitement.

"Cult of the Cobra" touches on latent post-war anxieties and xenophobia, thinly veiling them beneath its horror tropes. The American protagonists' unease with foreign elements is palpable, albeit presented with a lack of nuance that borders on caricature. Domergue's refusal of scotch and cigarettes is played as suspiciously un-American, feeding into the era's paranoia. The attempts at Cold War allegory are faint, overshadowed by predictable plotlines and a conspicuous lack of true terror. Ultimately, while the film's title and concept promise thrilling encounters with a monstrous entity, the execution falls flat, offering more in ponderous dialogue than in chilling confrontation.

Cult of the Cobra Blu-ray offers a mixed yet intriguing viewing experience that blends post-war friendship narratives with supernatural elements. The transfer quality is commendable, capturing the atmospheric tension and period-specific details effectively. The performances by the lead actors, although not outstanding, provide a decent portrayal of their characters, contributing to the overall engaging experience. The film's visual depiction of snake attacks, enhanced with cobra vision, adds a certain camp appeal that could amuse genre enthusiasts.

However, the film struggles with pacing issues, often feeling sluggish and failing to maintain a consistent level of suspense. The central plot revolving around cult revenge lacks depth and enthusiasm, which diminishes the potential intensity that such a narrative could offer. Instead of an engrossing thrill, viewers are left with a somewhat moderate portrayal of the ominous threats posed by snake worshipers.

In summary, Cult of the Cobra certainly has its merits, offering a compelling read of post-war friendships, brought to life with decent performances. The snake attacks (sold with cobra vision) are amusing, adding to camp appeal. There's just not enough ferocity to go around, leaving the feature sluggishly paced, while the central crisis of cult revenge isn't explored with noticeable enthusiasm.