Blackenstein Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "Blackenstein" from Severin Films and Vinegar Syndrome offers AVC encoded 1080p transfers in a 1.78:1 aspect ratio for both the Theatrical Release and the Video Release. Notably, the Video Release includes a disclaimer about its quality, and it visibly suffers from degraded source material. Transition sequences within the Video Release exhibit noticeable differences in clarity, color temperature, and frame alignment, culminating in a ragged visual presentation. Meanwhile, the Theatrical Release, while displaying occasional dupiness and color temperature fluctuations, provides a more solid color palette and relatively decent detail levels, especially in close-ups. Certain darker sequences appear milky, likely due to age-related wear and tear that remains evident despite restoration efforts.

The creature in "Blackenstein" is deliberately obscured in many scenes, with handheld camera movements that introduce quick pans, negatively impacting detail levels. This approach, likely intentional, aligns with the film's aesthetic but further exacerbates the lack of visual clarity in these sequences. Though marketed as restored, both releases retain signs of their vintage origins, including slight yet noticeable wear and tear representative of their age and handling.

The audio presentation of "Blackenstein" on Blu-ray features DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono tracks, which deliver a generally clear experience with some minor issues. Dialogue and sound effects are intelligible, though occasional slight distortions, especially in the music tracks, are noticeable. The film's score, an enjoyable albeit dated component, retains its charm despite some high-end crackling. The middle and lower frequency ranges are full and appealing, enhancing the overall audio experience. Additionally, the disc includes a Dolby Digital 2.0 mono mix, accessible through remote control options, but there's no Setup Menu indicating these choices.

The audio tracks remain consistent with the video counterpart, providing relatively clear dialogue and effects despite some inherent baked-in sound design flaws such as overdubbing issues. Music and score come through with a slight tinny quality but maintain clarity. Occasional differences in amplitude and hiss levels are perceptible during transitions, but these don't present major obstacles to enjoyment. For accessibility, English SDH subtitles are available, though they contain a few typographical errors. Overall, while the audio presentation isn't flawless, it competently preserves the film’s original sound design.

The Extras included in the Blu-ray release of "Blackenstein" provide a fascinating and detailed glimpse into both the making of the film and the intriguing backstory of its creator, Frank R. Saletri. Two versions of the film are available - the Theatrical Release and the Video Release - accompanied by submenus that grant access to a range of supplementary materials. These extras notably include heartfelt interviews, archival photographs, and news broadcasts that showcase historical Hollywood artifacts and enigmatic elements surrounding Saletri's life and work. Collectively, they offer a rich narrative that extends beyond the main feature, delivering content that adds significant value for enthusiasts of classic horror and Hollywood history.

Extras included in this disc:

• Monster Kid: Interview featuring June Kirk with archival photographs of the Lugosi mansion.
• Archive News Broadcast: Coverage of perplexing aspects of Frank Saletri’s murder case.
• Producers/Directors/Actors Ken Osborne and Robert Dix Remember Frank R. Saletri: Interviews about Saletri.
• Bill Created Blackenstein: Audio interview with prosthetic FX creator Bill Munns with archival stills.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original promotional material for the film.

"Blackenstein," also known as "Black Frankenstein," is a curious and arguably low-rent entry into the horror blaxploitation genre from 1973. The film was conceived as a capitalistic effort to replicate the unexpected success of "Blacula." However, where "Blacula" succeeded in blending horror with social commentary, "Blackenstein" falls short, lacking even the baseline finesse that would render it comparable. Despite this, the film earns points for its inventive, albeit rudimentary, reinvention of the Frankenstein mythos. The narrative pivots around Vietnam vet Eddie Turner (Joe De Sue), whose horrific injuries from a landmine and subsequent inhumane treatment at a VA hospital offer glimpses of socio-political undercurrents, although these themes are not fully explored.

In a unique twist, Eddie's transformation into the monstrous Blackenstein is initiated while he's still alive, a concept that strays from traditional Frankenstein lore. His fiancée, Dr. Winifred Walker (Ivory Stone), seeks out the expertise of Dr. Stein (John Hart), whose DNA research has earned him a Nobel Peace Prize—a detail that feels both tangential and bewildering. Yet, it's Dr. Stein’s nefarious assistant Malcomb (Roosevelt Jackson) who catalyzes Eddie’s grotesque metamorphosis through dubious means. These plot elements offer a distinctive take but suffer from a lack of coherent execution. The film has sporadic detours into unnecessary subplots, though they occasionally feature interesting, albeit brief, moments such as a nightclub sequence with soulful singer Cardella Di Milo.

Metabolizing like an Ed Wood film adapted for the blaxploitation era, "Blackenstein" is marred by amateur performances and meandering storytelling. Nevertheless, it manages to build an odd charm through scenes that strangely linger in memory. For those intrigued by the peculiar mix of low-budget horror and unfulfilled potential, "Blackenstein" offers sporadic flickers of engagement beneath its flawed surface.

The Blu-ray release of "Blackenstein" delves into the curious intersection of classic horror and 1970s blaxploitation cinema, presenting an archival piece rather than a conventional film experience. While the movie itself is undeniably dated, riddled with low-budget quirks and unintentional humor, it possesses an undeniable charm reflective of its era. The narrative, marred by wooden performances and questionable production values, is bolstered by a peculiar appeal that aficionados of cult horror might appreciate.

The technical presentation on this Blu-ray release is respectable, albeit not devoid of imperfections. Video quality improvements are discernible, preserving authenticity while improving clarity and color depth compared to previous formats. The audio restoration is satisfactory, capturing the essence of the period’s raw aesthetic, though it doesn’t fully eliminate the inherent limitations of the original recording. Supplementary materials add substantial value, offering insightful context and background on the film’s production and cultural significance.

In conclusion, "Blackenstein" is far from a cinematic masterpiece but has a niche appeal with its distinct era-specific charm. The release thrives more on its historical and cultural relevance than on merit as a standalone film. Those with a penchant for post-modern irony sprinkled with vintage horror tropes may find it an intriguing addition to their collection. Despite some technical shortcomings, this Blu-ray presentation encapsulates a slice of 70s exploitation cinema that holds intrinsic value for genre enthusiasts.