Blood and Lace Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Blood and Lace," courtesy of Scream Factory, features an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 1.78:1 aspect ratio. The video quality, considering the film's age and previous 'lost' status, is commendable. Elements exhibit typical signs of wear, such as speckling, dirt, and minor nicks, though they do not detract significantly from the viewing experience. While the overall visual presentation harbors a slightly dated look, marked by a somewhat dowdy brown ambiance, scenes with blood notably pop with vibrancy. Close-ups deliver very good detail, capturing fine elements like moles, wrinkles, and stubble with clarity that suggests some careful digital noise reduction (DNR) was applied.

The depth and sharpness of the image are average, lacking the immersive pop seen in more contemporary transfers. However, the grain resolves naturally, contributing to an authentic filmic texture without introducing major compression artifacts. The black levels are serviceable, with an increase in grain under poorly lit conditions but no significant crushing. Color reproduction maintains a natural and consistent palette throughout the runtime. Bold hues persist strongly, lending particular vitality to the blood, which adopts an Italian paint-like appearance. Skin tones are especially impressive in their naturalness and stability.

Overall, while the "Blood and Lace" Blu-ray transfer exhibits elements that reveal its age, the preservation and presentation efforts by Scream Factory result in a clean and relatively fresh visual experience that honors the original film’s aesthetic. Despite minor grain and dirt, the clarity in well-lit sequences and solid color reproduction make this release a notable improvement over previous versions.

The Blu-ray release of Blood and Lace offers a lossless DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono track, reflecting the film's original audio setup. This soundtrack is sourced from the original mono, ensuring authenticity. While the soundstage remains narrow and boxy, the dynamic range is adequate for a film of its era. Fidelity is consistent, although it doesn’t reach breathtaking levels. There’s no discernible damage, preserving the integrity of the audio. Speech is always clear and intelligible, and the stock music cues and sound effects are rendered faithfully.

From a technical standpoint, this DTS-HD track may not provide a thrilling auditory experience but reliably delivers the film's sound elements without distraction. The balance is slightly score-heavy but not to a degree that detracts from the overall experience. Additionally, English subtitles are available for those who need them. Though dynamics are practically nonexistent, the track manages to accommodate the film’s needs competently.

Overall, while Blood and Lace won’t showcase the height of audio fidelity, it maintains a solid and faithful reproduction of its original soundtrack. Audiophiles might not find it groundbreaking, but it performs well enough to support the film’s dialogue, music cues, and effects with clarity and precision.

The extras provided in the Blu Ray of "Blood and Lace" exhibit a well-rounded and insightful set for both film enthusiasts and scholars. The highlight is undoubtedly the engaging audio commentary by Film Historian Richard Harland Smith, who delves into the film's production history and offers fascinating insights into its various participants. The disc also contains an alternate opening title, useful for aficionados interested in different versions of the film. Lastly, the theatrical trailer provides a nostalgic glimpse into the film’s original marketing.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Film Historian Richard Harland Smith provides in-depth historical context and commentary on the film and its cast.
• Alternate Opening Title: A short, alternative opening sequence.
• Theatrical Trailer: The original promotional trailer for the film.

"Blood and Lace" is an intriguing, though imperfect, piece of early 1970s horror cinema with significant historical interest, particularly for fans of proto-slashers. Released by American International Pictures in 1971 and recently resurrected by Scream Factory for Blu-ray and DVD formats, the film had long languished in obscurity before this reissue. Following the brutal hammer murder of her mother, teenaged Ellie Masters (Melody Patterson) is sent to a children’s home run by the enigmatic Mrs. Deere (Gloria Grahame). However, Ellie’s new environment proves no less hazardous, culminating in a series of gruesome deaths, ultimately raising questions about who presents the greater peril: a lurking killer or her sadistic caretaker.

The film features an eclectic cast, including Oscar-winner Grahame and Len Lesser, known for his role as Uncle Leo on "Seinfeld." Lesser's performance is notably creepy, featuring a particularly memorable scene involving a meat cleaver and a dismembered hand. Patterson makes a notable impression despite the limitations of her role, though there’s a chuckle-worthy miscasting of adults as teenagers. The film flirts with giallo tropes and employs a point-of-view shot reminiscent of Michael Powell’s "Peeping Tom," albeit to a less sophisticated effect. The opening murder sequence is decently executed but suffers from unconvincing special effects.

While "Blood and Lace" does not reach the heights of classics like "Psycho" or "Peeping Tom," its blend of macabre elements and surprising plot twists maintains a certain cult charm. Misdirection is a prominent feature throughout, leading to a finale with unpredictable revelations. The film’s smarmy atmosphere is underscored by an unsettling romance subplot between Mrs. Deere and a sleazy social worker. Despite its flaws, "Blood and Lace" is a valuable watch for slasher enthusiasts and collectors interested in exploring the genre’s early iterations.

Scream Factory's Blu-ray release of 'Blood and Lace' is a noteworthy addition to the collection of any serious horror aficionado. This 1971 proto-slasher surprises with its mix of formulaic elements and intriguing oddities, contributing significantly to the ongoing debate about the origins of slasher film tropes. The film is characterized by its persistent mystery and bizarre twists, which, despite a somewhat clunky execution, make it captivating for its 87-minute duration.

The technical merits of the Blu-ray are commendable. The video presentation is sharp, highlighting the film's atmospheric visuals, and the enhanced resolution brings new life to the performances, particularly that of Melody Patterson. The audio quality matches expectations, offering a clear and engaging soundscape that enhances the overall viewing experience. Additionally, Scream Factory has included an array of solid extras that provide valuable context and enrich the viewing experience.

In conclusion, while 'Blood and Lace' may present a blend of predictable and outlandish elements, it stands as an important artifact in horror cinema history. The Blu-ray release is well-executed, making it a worthy purchase for fans of the genre or collectors interested in the evolution of slasher films. Despite some peculiarities in its promotional artwork, this release excels in delivering a nostalgic yet satisfying horror experience.