The People Under the Stairs Blu-ray Review

Scream Factory's Blu-ray release of "The People Under the Stairs" features an AVC encoded 1080p transfer presented in an unusual 1.81:1 aspect ratio. This appears to be the same master from Universal's 2014 Blu-ray release, as there are no significant enhancements noted. The film retains much of its original grain texture, although some viewers may notice slight yellow splotchiness in darker scenes, a familiar issue with Shout! and Scream Factory releases. Minimal telecine wobble is present during the credits but settles once the main feature commences. Overall, the color space, sharpness, and clarity align closely with previous editions.

The 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 encode delivers satisfying picture quality, staying true to the film's original aesthetic. Presented in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio, the image maintains excellent detail and definition across various scenes, whether daylight exteriors or interior shots of the eerie house. Viewers can appreciate the nuanced textures—ranging from wood grains to facial details and makeup effects. The color palette is richly saturated with vibrant hues, especially reds, which stand out against the naturally balanced skin tones and well-reproduced blacks. Contrast is well-balanced, with clean whites and strong black levels ensuring good shadow detail visibility.

In summary, this Blu-ray transfer provides an untampered, faithful representation of Wes Craven's cult favorite. The depth is average, contributing to cinematic movement and clear background images. While the encoding is robust with only light grain present, the overall visual presentation might not reach modern high-definition standards but remains the best the film has looked to date. Fans will appreciate the retention of the film's original charm and clarity, making this edition a noteworthy addition to any horror aficionado's collection.

The audio presentation of "The People Under the Stairs" on Blu-ray offers both a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix and a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mix, providing an enhanced auditory experience compared to the previous Universal release, which only provided a lossless stereo option. The DTS-HD MA 5.1 mix significantly enriches the film's soundstage, especially during scenes where Fool navigates tight spaces and faces external threats. This mix offers immersive ambient reverb that establishes various eerie locations within the film. Key elements such as dialogue are rendered cleanly and clearly while dynamic range remains broad and detailed. The score by Don Peake and Graeme Revell sounds expansive with excellent fidelity, benefiting greatly from the more dynamic sound environment of the 5.1 mix.

Conversely, some may prefer the DTS-HD MA 2.0 mix for its closer adherence to the film's original stereo design. Despite a difference in surround sound experience, this option still delivers clear and well-separated channels across the front soundstage. The authenticity of off-screen effects and atmospherics in the 2.0 mix effectively creates an engaging sense of space, particularly during scenes set outdoors or in confined house interiors filled with ambiance and minute environmental cues. Regardless of the listener's preference, both audio options offer remarkable clarity and balance. Low-frequency effects are present but not overpowering, adding depth to action sequences without any distortion. Overall, the Blu-ray effectively caters to varying auditory preferences, ensuring that both 5.1 and 2.0 mixes provide a compelling and elevated listening experience for viewers.

The Blu-ray extras for "The People Under the Stairs" offer a rich and insightful exploration into the making of Wes Craven's horror classic. Wendy Robie, who plays the House Mother, provides a fascinating philosophical discussion of her character, influenced by her Shakespearian background. The effects team, including Howard Berger and Greg Nicotero, detail their creative processes and budgetary constraints in "What Lies Beneath." Cinematographer Sandi Sissel shares her unique perspective as a female DP on "House of Horrors." Composer Don Peake discusses his last-minute contributions to the score in "Settling the Score." The disc also includes entertaining behind-the-scenes footage, various promotional materials, and two audio commentaries—the first by Wes Craven and Michael Felsher, and the second featuring Brandon Adams and other cast members, although the latter is less engaging.

Extras included in this disc:

• House Mother: Interview with Wendy Robie discussing her role.
• What Lies Beneath: Effects team discussing their work.
• House of Horrors: Interview with Cinematographer Sandi Sissel.
• Settling the Score: Composer Don Peake talks about the film's music.
• Behind-the-Scenes Footage: On-set home video footage.
• Theatrical Trailer
• TV Spots
• Vintage Making of Featurette: EPK with cast & crew interviews.
• Original Storyboards
• Still Gallery
• Audio Commentary: Featuring Wes Craven and Michael Felsher.
• Audio Commentary: With Brandon Adams, A.J. Langer, Sean Whalen, and Yan Burg.

Wes Craven's 1991 film, "The People Under the Stairs," takes viewers on a terrifying yet wildly entertaining journey. Blending elements of humor and horror, the narrative is masterfully constructed to both entertain and disturb. The plot follows 13-year-old Poindexter "Fool" Williams and his ill-fated adventure into the fortified home of the Robesons, a deranged couple who imprison their victims within the house’s walls. The film shifts dynamically, from tense suspense to absurdly comedic moments, all while maintaining an undercurrent of grotesque horror—a quality elevated by Craven's direction and Sandi Sissel's eerie cinematography. The performances of Wendy Robie and Everett McGill, as Mommy and Daddy Robeson, oscillate between Grand Guignol hyperbolism and unnerving realism, making the villains unforgettable.

Though repeatedly critiqued for its uneven tone, the movie's unique blend of horror and dark comedy continues to captivate audiences. The bizarre yet thematically rich screenplay, written by Craven himself, provides social commentary on class disenfranchisement and the cruelty of predatory landlords, which resonates with contemporary societal issues. This layered narrative is symbolically represented through the cannibalistic tendencies of the Robesons and Fool’s emerging maturity as he uncovers their terrible secrets. Moments of sheer absurdity, such as McGill donning an S&M-like suit paired with a shotgun, injects a level of surreal humor that complements the film’s horror elements.

What ultimately sets "The People Under the Stairs" apart is its over-the-top presentation and practical effects. The movie's unpredictable nature and gonzo style ensure that it remains memorable, continuing to influence modern horror-creations. Despite not being traditionally scary, it excels in delivering shock, laughs, and 100 minutes of pure fun. This enduring cult classic serves as a testament to Craven’s ingenuity in blending the bizarre with social critique, wrapped in a package that's as entertaining as it is unsettling. If you’re yet to experience this exhilarating cinematic ride, it’s time to dive in and embrace the madness.

"The People Under the Stairs" is a quintessential Wes Craven film, showcasing his signature mix of lunacy and shock in a tale that ventures into the darkest corners of suburbia. This Blu-ray release by Scream Factory stands out with its excellent video and audio transfer, offering a detailed and clear presentation that will satisfy both new viewers and long-time fans alike. The movie's bizarre humor, twisted scenarios, and unique characters make it a memorable horror experience that is both eerie and entertaining.

Scream Factory's edition also shines in its supplemental materials. From an extensive array of bonus features to a satisfying commentary by Craven, the package offers a comprehensive look behind the scenes. While it may lack a new interview with Craven, the available content still provides valuable insights and enriches the viewing experience. The inclusion of these substantial extras goes above and beyond, making it a must-have for cult horror enthusiasts and collectors.

Craven's patented blend of lunacy and madness is on full display in "The People Under the Stairs," offering a narrative filled with weird, twisted humor, and moments of genuine shock. The film's eccentric characters and madcap adventures provide ample opportunities for outstanding set pieces, despite some overextended backstory. The high-quality transfer alongside an embarrassment of supplemental riches secures this Blu-ray as a recommended addition to any horror collection.