Frankenhooker Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Frankenhooker" by Synapse Films boasts a robust high-definition transfer, retaining the original 1.78:1 aspect ratio. The 1080p MPEG-4 AVC encoded video offers commendable detail, stable contrast levels, and commendable clarity without falling prey to excessive denoising or artificial sharpening. A light layer of grain is uniformly present throughout, adding an authentic cinematic texture to the viewing experience.

Comparatively, the Synapse Films release has similar video characteristics to Arrow Films' earlier Blu-ray release, with a minor difference in color reproduction. On the Synapse version, reds and blues appear slightly darker. This subtle difference is hardly noticeable and does not detract from the overall viewing experience. Fans of Frank Henenlotter's cult classic will find this Blu-ray release highly satisfying, balancing detail, clarity, and authentic color representation effectively. This Region-Free disc ensures compatibility across various playback devices globally.

The Blu-ray release of "Frankenhooker" offers two primary audio tracks: English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. Unfortunately, Synapse Films has not included optional English subtitles for the main feature.

An evaluation of the DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 reveals some nuanced enhancements, particularly in key scenes such as the party sequence with the explosion, the storm, and portions of the bar sequence and finale. These segments benefit from extra movement and small dynamic nuances. However, anyone expecting an overwhelmingly immersive surround experience will be disappointed; the enhancements are subtle and do not significantly alter the overall audio landscape.

For purists and those who prefer authenticity, the DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track is a solid choice, effectively serving the film without the added, albeit understated, embellishments found in the 5.1 mix.

The extras on the "Frankenhooker" Blu Ray deliver an in-depth, engaging exploration of the film's production and legacy. Highlights include a highly informative audio commentary with director Frank Henenlotter and SPFX makeup artist Gabe Bartalos; Henenlotter provides compelling insights into the creation and conceptualization of Frankenhooker, while Bartalos elaborates on the intricate makeup effects. The supplemental interviews with actresses Patty Mullen and Jennifer Delora stand out, providing personal anecdotes and behind-the-scenes glimpses that enrich the viewer's appreciation. Particularly notable is Bartalos's featurette on makeup effects, which includes fascinating footage from a trip to the Bunny Ranch in Nevada. These extras offer a well-rounded look into the film’s creative process, making this collection essential for horror-comedy aficionados.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: Original theatrical trailer for Frankenhooker.
• Turning Tricks: Jennifer Delora Remembers Frankenhooker: Actress Jennifer Delora discusses her contribution to the film.
• Jennifer Delora's Frankenhooker Scrapbook: Photographs taken during the shooting, shown by Jennifer Delora.
• A Stitch in Time: The Make-Up Effects of Frankenhooker: Gabe Bartalos on makeup effects with Bunny Ranch footage.
• A Salad That Was Once Named Elizabeth: Patty Mullen Remembers Frankenhooker: Interview with Patty Mullen recalling her experience.
• Commentary: Audio commentary with Frank Henenlotter and Gabe Bartalos, recorded in 2005.

Frank Henenlotter's "Frankenhooker" (1990) arrives on Blu-ray courtesy of Synapse Films, catering to a niche audience with a penchant for bizarre, cult classic cinema. The film portrays Jeffrey Franken (played by James Lorinz), a young scientist whose fiancée, portrayed by former Penthouse Pet Patty Mullen, tragically perishes in a freak lawnmower accident. Instead of mourning in a conventional manner, Franken collects her dismembered body parts and endeavours to reassemble her in his garage-lab. The film follows his grotesque quest through New York City to source additional body parts from a bevy of hapless hookers, culminating in the creation of "Frankenhooker," a stitched-together entity that straddles the line between horror and dark comedy.

The film's narrative oscillates wildly between moments of intentional humor and pure absurdity, often slipping into the deeply unsettling. Its low-budget special effects, including the infamous 'supercrack' that makes the hookers’ bodies explode, add a layer of camp that fans of '80s and '90s grindhouse cinema might find endearing, though it may fall flat for others. The bizarre plotline is further accentuated by outlandish performances and an overall aesthetic that screams low-rent chaos. Within the film's unique universe, sequences like a bald-headed man attempting relations with Frankenhooker provide unintentional comic relief but ultimately affirm the movie's place as more of an acquired taste rather than mainstream entertainment.

Despite its glaring flaws and often amateurish execution, "Frankenhooker" remains memorable due to its audaciously eccentric conceit and nostalgic charm for those familiar with Henenlotter’s oeuvre. However, first-time viewers might struggle to appreciate its peculiar appeal without the context of its original cult following. As highlighted in the supplemental interviews, even cast members expressed skepticism about the film’s quality during production. Consequently, unless revisited through rose-coloured glasses of nostalgia or within a lively group setting, "Frankenhooker" might disappoint solo viewers seeking either polish or significant substance.

The Blu-ray release of Frank Henenlotter's "Frankenhooker" presents a surprisingly pristine visual treatment for such a cult film, featuring a 1080p transfer that retains its grittiness while enhancing clarity and detail. Colors are appropriately garish, fitting the film's campy tone, and black levels remain deep without crushing detail. The level of restoration work done here is impressive, breathing new life into the 1990 classic without sacrificing its low-budget charm.

The audio presentation is also noteworthy, providing a clear and immersive DTS-HD Master Audio track that highlights the film's eccentric score and dialogue. Sound effects are sharp, enhancing the bizarre atmosphere without overwhelming the viewer. The balance between background scores and dialogue ensures that none of the quirky conversations are lost, crucial for appreciating the movie’s humor and peculiar charm.

The package is rounded out with an impressive array of supplemental features including insightful commentary by director Frank Henenlotter, behind-the-scenes featurettes, and deleted scenes. These extras provide valuable context and enhance the viewing experience by offering a deeper dive into the film’s production and legacy.

Like the Arrow Films release, the Synapse Films release of Frank Henenlotter's Frankenhooker is very good. If you are planning to get one of the two, compare their supplemental features and see which one you like better. Regardless of which one you pick, you won't be disappointed - granted, of course, you know very well what type of a film you will be seeing.