It's Alive Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "It's Alive" by Shout! Factory showcases an impressive 2018 HD transfer created in 2K resolution using archival interpositives. The video is encoded in MPEG-4 AVC on a BD-50, maintaining the original theatrical aspect ratio of 1.85:1 with an average bitrate of 35,000 kbps. Previous DVD releases had altered the aspect ratio, much to the detriment of the visual quality. The new transfer corrects those issues, delivering an immaculate picture largely free of earlier anomalies like specks, grit, and color saturation problems. The image is consistently dark with deep, inky blacks and well-defined film grain, particularly evident in darker scenes such as the maternity ward. The detail is sharp and vivid, especially in close-up shots where practical makeup effects and textures are readily apparent. Skin tones appear natural with slight red or ruddy nuances.

Maintaining excellent color balance, the transfer showcases bold reds in blood, emphasizing the horror elements effectively against the subdued greens of hospital scenes. Wider shots retain their sharpness without going soft, and there is no noticeable fluctuation in film grain. Black levels maintain depth, providing a striking contrast that enhances the overall viewing experience. Notably, the print has been cleaned meticulously to remove debris, scratches, and dirt, resulting in an enhanced video presentation that underscores the attention to detail in this restoration process.

Overall, Shout! Factory's Blu-ray transfer of "It's Alive" represents a significant improvement over previous releases. This 1080p HD transfer stands out with its sharp details, vibrant colors, and a clean print free from major imperfections. With deep black levels and natural skin tones, it offers a film-like viewing experience that respects the original material while showcasing it in the best light possible.

The original monaural audio of "It's Alive" receives a commendable upgrade with a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Dual Mono mix (1895 kbps, 24-bit). Given the film's age and initial recording limitations, the clarity of this track is exceptionally clean. Previous concerns about low dialogue volumes have been meticulously addressed, resulting in spoken words that are now audible and crisp. Bernard Herrmann's unique and diverse score, featuring an array of instruments including six clarinets, eight French horns, six trumpets, and a Moog synthesizer, maintains its brooding, dissonant mood with occasional melodic undertones. The transition to this lossless format retains the emotional intensity and richness as faithfully as it does on the remastered CD. It's noted that original stereo masters were not found; only monaural tapes were available in the Warner Bros. vaults.

While the audio mix is limited to a 2.0 configuration, it surprisingly manages to encapsulate the essence of the film's sound design effectively. Though a 5.1 mix would amplify ambient sounds like cityscapes and nature, the 2.0 mix holds its ground, delivering a robust and dynamic auditory experience. Herrmann's iconic and bold score immerses viewers deeper into the suspenseful and horror-laden atmosphere, with a notable depth in both high and low frequencies that highlights intense moments without distortion or tin-can effects. Sound effects are robust, and dialogues are consistently clean and clear, free from any pops, cracks, or hisses, ensuring a seamless auditory experience. The balance between music, effects, and dialogue is well-maintained across all three films, providing listeners with an audio presentation that meets modern standards despite the original recording constraints.

The Blu-ray extras for "It's Alive" offer an in-depth and multifaceted exploration into the production, with insightful commentary, engaging interviews, and a variety of promotional material. The standout supplement is undoubtedly the new "Cohen's Alive: Looking Back at the It's Alive Films," featuring interviews with Larry Cohen, notable actors, and crew members who recount fascinating anecdotes about the trilogy's production. Additionally, viewers can enjoy another fresh feature, "It's Alive at the Nuart," presenting Cohen’s discussion from the 40th anniversary screening, offering both repeated and new stories. The audio commentary by Cohen, although recorded in 2004, remains informative and enjoyable. Complementing these are several vintage promotional elements including trailers, TV spots, radio spots, and a still gallery that encapsulate the film’s marketing efforts.

Extras included in this disc:

• Cohen's Alive: Looking Back at the It's Alive Films: New interviews covering the trilogy.
• It's Alive at the Nuart: Cohen at a 40th anniversary screening.
• Audio Commentary with Larry Cohen: Insightful 2004 commentary track.
• Radio Spots: Promotional audio clips.
• TV Spots: Original broadcast advertisements.
• Theatrical Trailer: Vintage trailer in widescreen.
• Still Gallery: Slideshow of various promotional images.

Larry Cohen’s "It's Alive" (1974) stands as a hallmark of low-budget horror cinema, demonstrating exceptional resourcefulness and innovation. Initially facing lackluster reception domestically, the film found appreciation overseas, even garnering awards. The narrative follows the harrowing ordeal of a couple whose newborn is revealed to be a grotesque mutant, causing havoc from the moment of birth. The film’s ingenious blend of horror and satire subtly critiques societal concerns, particularly the drug usage trends of the 1970s, though never overwhelming its audience with its message.

Cohen's direction is impressively supported by Bernard Herrmann’s atmospheric score and Rick Baker’s striking practical effects. The film exemplifies the “less is more” approach, offering fleeting glimpses of the titular monster baby and emphasizing the chaos it leaves behind. This restrained visual strategy amplifies the horror, balancing terror with moments of almost farcical absurdity. Despite initial commercial struggles and critical disdain, especially noted by Gene Siskel, "It's Alive" carved out a cult status through strategic reissues and drive-in showings, cementing its legacy in the horror genre.

Ultimately, "It's Alive" exemplifies Cohen’s adeptness in producing compelling cinema within constrained budgets and timeframes. The film’s eventual success story is a testament to his vision and perseverance in navigating an industry often resistant to unconventional ideas.

The Blu Ray release of "It's Alive" by Shout! Factory is a meticulously restored presentation of Larry Cohen's cult-classic horror trilogy. Benefiting from a new digital intermediate from the film's interpositive, the transfer is visually impressive, delivering crisp and clean images that retain the film’s atmosphere and tension. The uncompressed mono track, likewise, offers clear and authentic audio without any notable flaws, enhancing the eerie soundscapes central to the films' harrowing experiences. The inclusion of both new and vintage bonus features adds significant value, although there is a desire for a more comprehensive documentary.

Rick Baker's creature effects shine vividly in this restoration, underscoring the technical craftsmanship that has earned the trilogy its enduring legacy. Bernard Herrmann’s experimental score, another standout element, manifests with clarity and impact, resonating as strongly as ever. The films' ability to intertwine horror with social commentary remains potent, providing a satirical lens on 70s and 80s socio-political climates, further cementing their historical significance and cult status.

In conclusion, It's Alive is not only spine-chilling and terrifying but also somber and moving. Cohen's shock editing, Rick Baker's creature effects, and Herrmann's experimental score have each stood the test of time. Shout! Factory has delivered an outstanding transfer from a new digital intermediate of the film's interpositive. The uncompressed mono track sounds clean and authentic with no conspicuous flaws. I only wish that Shout would have made the new doc longer and more comprehensive. Still, HIGHLY RECOMMENDED and the primary reason to grab this box set.