Edge of the Axe Blu-ray Review

Arrow Video has delivered an impressive 1080p transfer of "Edge of the Axe" on Blu-ray, sourced from a new 2K scan and restoration of the original 35mm camera negative. Presented in its original aspect ratio of 1.85:1, this transfer brings a much-needed upgrade from the worn VHS tapes many might remember. The film grains are meticulously preserved, offering a richly film-like appearance that enhances the overall viewing experience. Daylight sequences reveal striking details in facial features and scenic locations, while the night scenes maintain deep, inky black levels, imparting a robust three-dimensional depth.

Despite these high marks, the transfer does exhibit some minor anomalies. In darker scenes, the grain field can appear slightly rough, occasionally compromising detail levels. Additionally, there is a noticeable but not overly intrusive blue push that sometimes affects black levels, leading them to lack true depth and flattening the image marginally. Fortunately, this color temperature issue does not severely impact primary colors or flesh tones. Overall, Arrow Video’s restoration retains the film’s sometimes lurid palette, particularly enhancing the notorious blood splatter effects, without succumbing to significant age-related wear or compression artifacts. The restoration effort clearly breathes new life into this classic, albeit with some minor quibbles.

"Edge of the Axe" features English and Spanish LPCM Mono audio tracks, delivering distinct listening experiences. The English track stands out with a more natural and balanced sound, fluidly blending dialogue, sound effects, and the score by Javier Ellioreta. Outdoor sequences, particularly on the lake, present a surprisingly open mix with some limited yet pleasing imaging. Dialogue maintains clarity and resonance, providing an immersive experience.

Contrastingly, the Spanish track exhibits a boxier sound profile with less dynamic range in the midrange and low end. While the imaging presence remains consistent, the dubbed voices may come off as stiff and inorganic. Despite these differences, both tracks ensure that dialogue is crisp and clear respectively. However, the inherent quality of the original recording in English makes it the preferred selection for a fuller, more engaging auditory experience.

Arrow Video’s Blu-ray release of "Edge of the Axe" impresses with a comprehensive and well-curated selection of extras. The disc features in-depth interview segments that provide valuable insights into the film’s production and legacy. Barton Faulks’ commentary with Matt Rosenblatt is particularly engaging, as they share behind-the-scenes anecdotes and discuss Faulks’ diverse acting experiences. The Hysteria Continues commentary offers additional context and fan perspectives, serving as a delightful complement to the main commentary. Interviews with actors Page Moseley and special effects artist Colin Arthur further enrich the viewer's understanding, detailing their unique experiences and technical contributions. An image gallery, original trailers, and a well-compiled insert booklet round out this excellent package.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary with Barton Faulks and Matt Rosenblatt: Informative, actor-led discussion.
• Audio Commentary with The Hysteria Continues: Lighthearted fan-focused analysis.
• Gerald's Game: Interview with Barton Faulks.
• The Actor's Grind: Interview with Page Moseley.
• The Pain in Spain: Interview with Colin Arthur.
• Image Gallery: Behind-the-scenes photos and promotional materials.
• Original Trailers English/Spanish: Theatrical previews.

Josè Ramón Larraz's Edge of the Axe blends slasher thrills with technological intrigue, setting its tale in the fictitious Paddock County. The narrative follows Gerald (Barton Faulks), a motorcycle enthusiast and computer fan, whose arrival coincides with a string of grisly murders. Through high-tech, albeit historically inaccurate means, Gerald and the local Lillian (Christina Marie Lane) attempt to identify the masked killer. The film effectively intertwines suspense with graphic violence, which includes notable gore sequences such as a savage murder in a car wash, where blood mingles with suds for a darkly vivid effect.

The film's surfaces quintessential 1980s horror visual motifs, reminiscent of its peers yet memorable due to its striking video box art featuring the masked killer. The screenplay teeters on conveying depth with red herrings and misdirection but ultimately falls short in coherence. While it stirs tension adeptly, technical inconsistencies particularly regarding early computer technology strain credibility. Modern viewers with a grasp of digital systems may find these inaccuracies distracting, though such details would have been less problematic at its time of release.

Strong on nostalgic value and genre adherence, Edge of the Axe delivers reliable slasher entertainment despite its narrative flaws. Larraz maintains engaging suspense and effective brutality throughout; however, the conclusion leaves multiple questions unresolved, hinting at a potential franchise that never materialized. Despite its quaint depiction of state-of-the-art computers, the film remains a solid piece for slasher enthusiasts, appealing through its gruesome kills and atmospheric tension. As part of Arrow Video's Blu-ray release, it offers an appealing throwback for those eager to explore or revisit this under-the-radar horror gem.

"Edge of the Axe" is a quintessential slasher film that blends blood-curdling kills with a slightly convoluted narrative, staying true to the genre's classic inhibition of logical consistency. Fans of 80s horror will relish the graphic kill sequences, while the introduction of a so-called high-tech computer element adds an intriguing dimension, albeit one that feels comically outdated by today's standards. Despite a plethora of characters, veteran viewers will quickly discern the limited pool of actual suspects. Arrow’s Blu-ray presentation is top-notch, featuring a commendable video transfer that retains the film's gritty, nostalgic essence.

The array of bonus content is extensive and engaging, offering a deep dive into the film’s historical and cultural context. The upbeat and informative audio commentary with Barton Faulks and Matt Rosenblatt offers an insider’s perspective, while The Hysteria Continues’ lighthearted discussion enriches understanding of the film’s era. Noteworthy interviews with cast members, such as Barton Faulks reminiscing about his time on set and Page Moseley sharing eclectic experiences, alongside Colin Arthur’s insights into the special effects, add additional layers of enjoyment and context. The image gallery and 24-page insert booklet filled with cast and crew info, an essay, and detailed restoration notes further enhance the viewing experience.

Conclusion: "Edge of the Axe" isn’t just another slasher with creative kills; it's a film that both entertains and occasionally challenges viewers' suspension of disbelief with its quirky technological angles. Arrow delivers an impeccable Blu-ray release, ensuring that the movie's legacy endures with excellent visual and audio fidelity paired with rich supplementary materials. For aficionados of the 80s horror scene seeking an unseasonal slasher thrill, "Edge of the Axe" is highly recommended.