Graveyard Shift Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Graveyard Shift" offers a generally competent, if not outstanding, video presentation. The film is presented in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio with an AVC encoded image. While the scan is not new, it retains a certain fidelity to the source material that should satisfy most viewers. Key particulars, such as skin textures and the fur of the rat co-stars, are clear and discernible. Monstrous encounters and the film’s labyrinthine sets show solid dimensionality, with decorations open to detailed study. Colors appear naturally, with grimy interiors maintaining their intended atmosphere and the occasional colorful period fashion hues adding contrast. Notably, blood reds and the greenery in the film appear vibrant.

This 1080p transfer appears to reuse an HD master previously available in Germany and on various digital platforms. Despite this, the picture quality shows a significant improvement over earlier DVD releases. Details are robust, featuring a consistent grain that enhances the filmic texture of the viewing experience. The image clarity is most notable in close-ups and mid-shots, though some softness can be detected in wider establishing shots. Black levels are impressively rich and inky, contributing to a three-dimensional image depth that is particularly striking against lighter elements like bright white cotton and primary color highlights, notably reds. Although not groundbreaking, this catalog release provides a respectable transfer that will likely satisfy fans of the film.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "Graveyard Shift" benefits from two robust tracks: a DTS-HD MA 5.1 mix and a DTS-HD MA 2.0 mix, each offering unique strengths. The DTS-HD MA 5.1 track excels in creating an immersive soundscape, particularly noticeable in the industrial roar of the mill and the eerie acoustics of the rat-infested tunnels. Sound effects are well-articulated, with surround channels effectively capturing atmospheric details such as room tone and dripping water. Dialogue remains distinct and clear, consistently maintaining dramatic urgency without any distortion. The low-end frequencies deliver impact during intense scenes, such as monstrous encounters and property damage, providing a significant auditory punch.

While the 5.1 mix emphasizes a more enveloping experience with decent imaging and atmosphere, it has a minor drawback in that its audio levels can appear a bit subdued, necessitating a slight volume boost. Conversely, the DTS-HD MA 2.0 stereo track offers a more centralized and focused auditory experience, free from any issues with volume levels. Although the stereo track lacks the expanded spatial engagement of the surround mix, it ensures clean and clear dialogue with no hiss or signs of aging. For purists who appreciate the traditional stereo experience typical of 80s horror films, the DTS-HD MA 2.0 track provides an authentic auditory throwback, though it may lack the atmospheric depth one might crave during pivotal moments in the narrative.

The Blu-ray extras for "Graveyard Shift" offer an impressive compilation of interviews and behind-the-scenes insights that are a treat for fans and cinephiles alike. Director Ralph S. Singleton leads with two in-depth interviews, providing an informative look into his transition from publishing to filmmaking, his challenges during production, and his engaging experiences with Stephen King. The cast interviews, especially those with Stephen Macht and Kelly Wolf, provide valuable perspectives on character development, technical challenges, and memorable moments from the set. Those searching for comprehensive bonus content will find this collection robust, although a commentary track is notably absent.

Extras included in this disc:

• Working the Night Shift: Ralph S. Singleton on production challenges.
• Filmmaking in King Country: Singleton on casting and design.
• Back Off, Man: Insights from actress Kelly Wolf.
• We're Going to Hell Together: Stephen Macht's character exploration.
• Let's Go Surfing Now: Vic Polizos on shedding accents and stunt work.
• Yes, Mr. Warwick: Robert Alan Beuth on theatrical training and set anecdotes.
• Radio Spots: Two commercials for Graveyard Shift.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original promotional trailer in HD.

Graveyard Shift is an adaptation of Stephen King's short story from 1970, tasked with transforming this brief tale into a full-length feature by screenwriter John Esposito. The narrative pivots around a decrepit textile mill in Gates Falls, where new recruit John Hall (David Andrews) confronts not just an infestation of rats, but also the malignant presence of foreman Warwick (Stephen Macht). The film's first half benefits from director Ralph S. Singleton's relatively compelling setup, featuring eccentric performances and grimy sets, but loses momentum towards the end. Esposito's script effectively stretches the short story to a screenplay by adding layers of workplace horror and intimidation. Morton’s performance as the loathsome Warwick stands out, creating a deeply detestable character whose heavy Maine accent distinguishes him from the rest of the cast.

Warwick’s domination over the run-down Bachman Mill is a major plot element, filled with gritty details of abuse and corruption, including paying off safety inspectors and bullying employees. His tyrannical rule pits him against Hall, who is drawn into a suspicious mill clean-up task, only to discover that mutant rats are but one of many dangers lurking underground. Contrastingly, Kelly Wolf's Jane and the ensemble cast do their best to keep pace with Macht and Brad Dourif’s eccentric exterminator role. The narrative progresses to unveil a grotesque Bat-Rat creature, a blend between rat and bat that, while somewhat goofy, adds a traditional horror element to the film.

Although Graveyard Shift presents many enjoyable aspects, such as Macht's riveting performance and the nostalgic value for 90s horror fans, its creature-centric climax fails to sustain the initial promise set by the screenplay. Despite the introduction of secondary storylines and expanded content over the original short story, the film mainly entertains as an industrial creature flick rather than a deeply engaging horror piece. The Bat-Rat, despite technical hiccups during filming that relegated it to quick cuts until its final revelation, adds to the quirky yet unsettling atmosphere. Graveyard Shift provides enough thrills to hold attention and arguably remains one of the more memorable adaptations of King’s lesser-known works.

"Graveyard Shift," while perhaps not the apex of cinematic achievements, offers a distinctive experience grounded in excellent set design and atmospheric Maine locations. The film showcases committed performances, especially Brad Dourif's intense portrayal of a Vietnam vet-turned-exterminator, adding a slightly cartoonish yet engagingly physical edge to the cast's depiction of their characters' ordeal. Despite some narrative missteps, such as moving away from the intriguing Bachman Mill team and their unconventional rodent control tactics, the climax dives into an intriguing subterranean lair setting. Here, however, the film loses some steam as it struggles to maintain excitement and suspense, turning into a rather dull confrontation between underpaid workers and a nebulous beast.

From a technical perspective, Scream Factory has treated "Graveyard Shift" with a strong Blu-ray release. The video transfer is commendable, capturing the gritty atmosphere essential to the film's horror elements. The two audio mixes are solid, ensuring that both William Singleton's direction and the eerie sound design come through effectively. This release also boasts newly added interviews with cast and crew, which enrich the package and provide fans with further insight into the film's production.

In conclusion, "Graveyard Shift" is an entertaining watch that comfortably straddles the line between horror and dark comedy, knowing its niche without aspiring to transcend it. While it may not deliver grand cinematic moments, it offers ample gore and humor for genre enthusiasts. With its commendable Blu-ray release, fans of Stephen King’s adaptations will find it a worthy addition to their collections. Recommended for those who appreciate creature features that don't shy away from their schlocky roots.