The Sentinel Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "The Sentinel," courtesy of Scream Factory, features an AVC encoded 1080p transfer that delivers a commendable viewing experience. The 1.78:1 image boasts an energetic and vivid appearance, with primary colors given a lively treatment that enhances the overall visual appeal. Secondary hues are rendered cleanly, providing natural flesh tones in close-ups. Despite some scenes appearing drab due to photographic choices and the condition of the source elements, the video maintains stable contrast and clean whites, while black levels are accurate and consistent. The source material shows signs of age, including white specks, dirt flecks, and occasional softness, but these do not significantly detract from the overall presentation.

Detail and clarity in the transfer are rock solid, with fine textures visible on wood grains, clothing patterns, and facial details. Dimensionality is handled well, offering cinematic movement and effective depth. The image appears as sharp as possible for its age, maintaining a fresh and clean look. While shadow detail can be negligible in very dark sequences, this contributes to the film’s unsettling atmosphere. The color reproduction is particularly impressive, with bold and luscious reds and cherry browns enriching the visual palette. Although there are minor compressions and some grain and dirt persist, these issues are minimal and do not interfere substantially with the viewing experience.

Overall, "The Sentinel" on Blu-ray delivers a robust video transfer that balances vivid color reproduction with fine details, despite some age-related imperfections in the source material. The transfer's quality provides a significant visual enhancement for this classic supernatural thriller.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono track for "The Sentinel" provides a faithfully preserved auditory experience characteristic of its time, though it does exhibit some limitations. Dialogue is cleanly presented and well-prioritized, albeit with occasional moments where lines are swallowed in more chaotic scenes. The mid-range generally remains clear but can feel somewhat flat, lacking dynamic range and exhibiting very little movement into the upper frequencies. Despite an overall limited depth in the lower registers, the bass does provide some weight to the music and action sequences, maintaining a semblance of balance that fans of the genre will appreciate.

One notable issue is the presence of background noise, including hissing and a few distracting pops, suggesting that the audio could greatly benefit from a restoration of original elements. While the soundtrack delivers clean and distinct dialogue throughout, its confined and centralized nature results in a somewhat limited audio field. The mono mix manages to blend conversation and score effectively, with sound effects delivering a satisfying punch, though it does carry a discernible analog and ADR quality at times. In sum, despite these technical constraints, the audio track succeeds in complementing the film, providing a solid if unremarkable listening experience.

The Blu-ray extras for "The Sentinel" offer a comprehensive and deeply engaging dive into the film's production and legacy. The highlight is a trio of audio commentaries featuring writer/producer Jeffrey Konvitz, director Michael Winner, and actress Cristina Raines, each providing distinct perspectives and vivid recollections. Complementing these are an in-depth interview with Assistant Director Ralph S. Singleton, who shares his career experiences and specific anecdotes about working on "The Sentinel," along with Winner's approach to horror filmmaking. Visual extras include an array of still galleries showcasing production photos, promotional materials, and posters, which enhance the nostalgic experience for fans. Additionally, the disc includes the theatrical trailer and TV spots, rounding out a robust package that captures the film's essence and historical context.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary with Jeffrey Konvitz: Insights from the writer/producer.
• Commentary with Michael Winner: Candid reflections from the director.
• Commentary with Cristina Raines: Anecdotes from the lead actress.
• Interview with Ralph S. Singleton: Career reflections and work on the film.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original promotional clip.
• TV Spots: Broadcast advertisements.
• Movie Stills: Production photographs.
• B&W Press Photos: Black and white promotional images.
• Lobby Cards and Posters: Marketing materials from the release period.

Michael Winner's "The Sentinel" stands out as an intriguing yet underappreciated effort in the 1970s horror genre, bolstered by an impressive cast and some genuinely eerie moments. The film, based on Jeffrey Konvitz's novel, follows model Alison Parker (Cristina Raines) as she moves into a seemingly idyllic apartment in a Brooklyn brownstone, only to discover that her neighbors are anything but ordinary. Despite a phenomenal assembly of actors including Burgess Meredith, Ava Gardner, and a young Jeff Goldblum, the performances are uneven, with Raines and Chris Sarandon (playing Alison's boyfriend Michael Lerman) delivering particularly wooden portrayals. Michael Winner himself expressed regret over casting Sarandon instead of Martin Sheen for the role of Michael, believing it could have significantly improved the film.

Technically, the film shines in its suspenseful sequences, notably due to Richard C. Kratina's cinematography and the editing work of Bernard Gribble and Terry Rawlings. One memorable scene where Alison explores her haunted brownstone remains effective even today, marked by smartly timed shocks and a claustrophobic atmosphere. These moments demonstrate Winner's ability to craft an unnerving and discomforting mood, despite the narrative's lack of originality.

At its core, "The Sentinel" attempts to blend supernatural horror with a deeper theme of spiritual redemption. However, the film sometimes stumbles under the weight of its inspirations, appearing derivative of classics like "Rosemary’s Baby" and "The Exorcist." Despite this, the movie possesses unique scenes and makeup effects that elevate it above mere pastiche. Winner pushes boundaries with controversial imagery, especially during the film's climax involving severely deformed characters, reminiscent of "Freaks." These elements create a gripping albeit flawed horror film that retains a certain cult appeal.

Michael Winner's "The Sentinel" serves as a memorable entry in the 1970s horror genre. Though it may not reach the echelon of cult classics, its intense atmospherics and star-studded cast, including Cristina Raines, Burgess Meredith, and Chris Sarandon, provide a substantial draw. Winner’s presentation is compelling, particularly in scenes that go overboard to depict various depravities, leaving an indelible mark on the viewer. While some elements may seem smarmy or objectionable, they undeniably contribute to an unforgettable experience. The film remains an amusing and creepy watch, with one nightmarish sequence standing out as an effective scare, even by today's standards.

The Blu-ray release by Scream Factory boasts strong technical merits in both audio and video quality, marking a significant upgrade over previous editions. The overall look and sound are impressive, enhancing the chilling atmosphere integral to the film’s efficacy. Noteworthy is the included bonus content, featuring an interview and three insightful commentaries. While the supplementary materials may not be groundbreaking, they add value for horror aficionados and collectors looking to deepen their appreciation of this horror gem.

In conclusion, "The Sentinel" is replete with interesting content despite its derivative aspects. Its unforgettable sequences and over-the-top presentation craft a niche appeal that horror fans and cinema enthusiasts can appreciate. The Blu-ray’s high-quality audiovisuals and well-curated extras make it a worthy addition to any horror collection.