Lorna the Exorcist Blu-ray Review

Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release of "Lorna the Exorcist" undergoes a 1080p transfer using MPEG-4 AVC encoding, showcased in an aspect ratio of 1.66:1. This edition presents a notable but not transformative improvement compared to previous releases, particularly Mondo Macabro's earlier DVD edition. While this Blu-ray provides an enhanced viewing experience through richer textures and crisper visuals, it doesn't escape the inherent limitations of the source material, which were evident in prior versions as well. The master, likely similar to that used for Le Chat Qui Fume's 2018 Blu-ray release, contains footage with density fluctuations and color instability due to its compilation from diverse sources, including 35mm prints not in optimal condition.

There are evident visual imperfections such as speckling, frame cracks, and edge wear, mainly owing to the film’s complex post-production history and the difficulty in maintaining Franco’s original vision. Despite these flaws, the film maintains a film-like quality that is improved through a consistently high bitrate of 30 to 40 mbps. Most parts of the film exhibit decent stability in color and contrast, achieving a balance of nostalgia and enhancement. That said, some sequences can appear overly bright and suffer from source damage like vertical green lines, though overall clarity is generally satisfactory.

While not perfect, this Blu-ray release undeniably represents the best available version of "Lorna the Exorcist," given the constraints of the available film elements. The choice to refrain from overly aggressive restoration ensures authenticity, preserving the film's organic characteristics despite occasional wear. This release stands as a testament to preserving cinematic history in all its imperfections, offering an experience that remains faithful to the film's original aesthetic.

The Blu-ray release of "Lorna the Exorcist" presents two standard audio tracks: French DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 and English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0, with optional English subtitles for the French version. Both tracks maintain a mono arrangement, although they differ in execution. The French track is generally considered superior, offering a cleaner and more authentic experience despite minor imperfections such as occasional hiss. This track is the preferred choice, not only due to its proximity to the film’s original presentation but also because of the satisfactory balance between soundtrack and dialogue, particularly during intense sequences.

Comparative analysis reveals a substantial quality gap between the Blu-ray's lossless French track and previous lossy versions, notably enhancing the film's significant music themes. Contrastingly, the English dub, while cleaner in terms of extraneous noise, struggles with integration issues, leading to an unnatural synchronization with the visual elements. The volume of the guitar-driven score tends to be more pronounced in select areas on the English track, but this does little to mitigate the awkward flow and lack of cohesion evident throughout.

For any viewer seeking an authentic auditory experience that aligns well with the film's thematic composition and narrative intensity, the recommendation is clear: prioritize the French track. Despite some inconsistency in dialogue clarity typical of overdubbing processes, it delivers a compellingly immersive atmosphere, showcasing the film's distinctive audiovisual personality effectively. This selection will enhance the overall viewing experience, maintaining fidelity to the film’s original artistry.

The Blu-ray release of "Lorna the Exorcist" excels with a robust selection of extras, adding significant value for enthusiasts of Jess Franco’s work. Key highlights include a brand-new audio commentary by Tim Lucas, offering deep insights into the film’s production, the thematic significance of nudity and sexuality, and broader considerations about Franco's cinematic world. Integral to the package is an interview with Pamela Stanford, revealing her career trajectory and collaboration with Franco. Gerard Kikoine’s interview enriches the perspective with anecdotes from his editing experience and professional interactions within the Franco production circle. Additionally, Stephen Thrower offers a critical analysis of Franco's filmic style and its impact on his perceptions of Franco’s extensive oeuvre. These elements consolidate into a comprehensive trove of informative content, catering both to dedicated fans and newcomers intrigued by 1970s European exploitation cinema.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary by Novelist and Critic Tim Lucas: Analyzes Franco's cinema and "Lorna the Exorcist."
• Interview with Actress Pamela Stanford: Insights into her work with Jess Franco.
• Interview with Filmmaker Gérard Kikoïne: Discusses his editing experiences and collaboration with Robert de Nesle.
• Introduction by Stephen Thrower: Critical take on Jess Franco's films and their inconsistencies.

Jess Franco's Lorna the Exorcist is a quintessential example of his unique brand of erotic horror, now available on Blu-ray courtesy of Kino Lorber. This 1974 film has had a storied release history, being re-cut and renamed globally, yet it remains one of Franco's most compelling while aptly embracing his thematic penchant for surrealism. The plot intricately weaves a Faustian tale with a provocative twist, centering around Patrick Mariel (Guy Delorme), his wife Marianne (Jacqueline Laurent), and their daughter Linda (Lina Romay). As they vacation on the French Riviera, past entanglements with the enigmatic Lorna Green (Pamela Stanford) emerge, invoking a sinister pact that threatens their family dynamics.

Franco capitalizes on a limited budget to craft an atmosphere dense with erotic tension and surreal visuals. The film's ambiance is significantly bolstered by Robert de Nesle and Andre Benichou's minimalistic yet evocative soundtrack, enhancing the feature's dreamlike quality. Notably, the narrative diverts from typical horror elements seen in conventional exorcism flicks, infusing it instead with sexual and metaphysical layers that defy traditional storytelling. This artistic choice aligns well with Franco's style, prioritizing visual flair and thematic exploration over straightforward narrative coherence.

Despite being sourced from an Italian hardcore negative, which hints at its varied post-production history targeting international markets, the Blu-ray presentation is commendable. Franco's hallmark techniques are unmistakable; lingering close-ups and slow zooms on female subjects augment the film's hypnotic and unsettling tone. Lina Romay delivers a standout performance, navigating Franco's world of sexual possession with arresting intensity. While Lorna the Exorcist incorporates ample nudity and implicit seduction, it steers clear from simple exploitation, instead proposing an intricate exploration of power dynamics between genders—an overarching theme in Franco's variegated filmography.

Jess Franco's "Lorna the Exorcist" makes a compelling arrival on Blu-ray, courtesy of Kino Lorber. A mix of erotic horror and psychological drama, this film is an essential piece in Franco's extensive oeuvre, particularly for fans who appreciate his unique storytelling style. Set against the alluring backdrop of the French Riviera, the film offers a dreamlike narrative that blurs the line between reality and the surreal. While the technical presentation of this release is not without its imperfections, it embodies a rough charm that aligns with the film's original aesthetic. The music score, simple yet poignant, underscores the film's intense atmosphere effectively.

For the unacquainted viewer, navigating Franco's distinctive cinematic world might require a few repeat viewings to fully grasp the intricate layers and unusual rhythms he presents. "Lorna the Exorcist" stands as a representative example of his erotically charged and singular vision, making it a fitting introduction for newcomers. The Blu-ray release by Kino Cult not only preserves this cinematic relic but enriches it with a commendable selection of bonus features, offering both insightful commentary and additional context to enhance understanding and appreciation.

In conclusion, Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release of "Lorna the Exorcist" is noteworthy for bringing Franco's cult classic to a new platform. Its region-free availability broadens access for international enthusiasts. While the transfer maintains some of its original roughness, this adds to its nostalgic authenticity. Enthusiasts of Franco’s work, particularly those drawn to his more sensual explorations of genre cinema, are likely to find this release a valuable addition to their collection. Overall, this release comes highly recommended for both dedicated fans and those eager to explore the daring narratives of Jess Franco.