Deranged Blu-ray Review

The AVC encoded image presented in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio for "Deranged" is a commendable showcase of the film's aged but atmospheric aesthetic. The 1080p HD transfer effectively emphasizes the detailed texture of close-ups, bringing the gory, decaying visual elements to life. Capturing the essence of the film's horror, the image offers well-defined facial features and costumes, particularly in well-lit scenes. The color balance is notable, with rural winterscapes and the vivid red of blood standing out prominently. Skintones maintain a natural appearance, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Grain is consistent and filmic without disrupting the picture quality, maintaining authenticity. Black levels are profound, supporting the eerie ambiance of nighttime sequences. However, some mild flicker and judder are observed, along with minor instances of video noise and brief print damage. Overall, the high-definition transfer significantly elevates the visual presentation of this low-budget 1974 classic, striking a balance between preserving its original charm and enhancing its visual appeal for modern audiences.

The 2.0 DTS-HD MA sound mix in "Deranged" is commendable, retaining a surprising freshness that defies the typical hiss issues of cult films from its era. Dialogue is consistently sharp and clean, managing a broad range of emotions and terrifying moments without distorting. The soundtrack is both subtle and strategically positioned, enhancing the sense of impending doom while maintaining instrumental integrity. While the atmospheric sounds are somewhat limited, they effectively capture the eerie rural setting and the visceral experience of the gore scenes.

This release provides an exceptional DTS-HD MA 2.0 stereo mix, particularly impressive given its over 40-year vintage. The sound effects excel in crucial scenes, delivering every squish, splash, and bone crunch with remarkable clarity. The ambient rural setting sounds further enhance immersion, providing an authentic auditory landscape. The haunting, eerie score complements the movie perfectly, never overwhelming dialogue or sound effects. Dialogue remains clear and distinct throughout, free from pops, cracks, hiss, or shrillness. Additionally, the low-frequency effects are solid, and the dynamic range is wide, making this stereo mix a standout feature of the Blu-Ray presentation.

The Blu-ray of "Deranged" offers a robust and intriguing collection of extras that enhances the viewing experience. These features cover various aspects of production, from the origins of the story to engaging anecdotes about the film's creation. The two audio commentaries provide deep dives into the film's history and its cast and crew. The interview with producer Tom Karr, although bizarre in its presentation, is rich with detailed production stories and insights about a potential remake. The theatrical trailer, while missing some elements, adds to the nostalgic appeal. These extras provide both entertainment and a wealth of information for fans and newcomers alike.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary #1: Writer and co-director Alan Ormsby discusses origins, filming, casting, and special effects.
• Commentary #2: Film historian Richard Harland Smith covers film production and contextual historical details.
• Interview: Producer Tom Karr talks about production stories and a potential remake.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original film trailer.

"Deranged" (1974) offers a chilling examination of real-life serial killer Ed Gein, reimagined here as Ezra Cobb, brilliantly portrayed by Roberts Blossom. This film intensely captures Gein's terrifying existence, focusing less on a psychological analysis and more on the grotesque realities of his life. The narrative, under the direction of Jeff Gillen and Alan Ormsby, is strikingly authentic, with a docu-drama style commentary by Tom Sims (Leslie Carlson) enhancing its eerie credibility. While "Deranged" maintains a strong adherence to actual events, aided by effective scenes that delve into Ezra's disturbed psyche following his domineering mother's death, the film remains purely horrifying and engaging due to Blossom's commitment and depth in his performance.

The storyline follows Ezra as he deteriorates mentally post his mother's demise, eventually exhuming her corpse and beginning a grotesque spree of murder and dismemberment. His descent into macabre activities, notably trying to reconstruct his mother using various victims' skins, is depicted with gut-wrenching reality. The progression from a manipulated son to a deranged killer is seamless, bolstered by Cosette Lee's menacing portrayal of Ma Cobb, whose tyrannical indoctrinations significantly shape Ezra’s warped worldview. Ezra’s awkward encounters and eventual killings are laced with darkly engrossing sequences that maximize suspense and revulsion.

Tom Savini's early contributions as the makeup artist make "Deranged" a visceral experience, showcasing realistic grotesqueries like skin removal and body stitching. This film is not just about shock value but is enriched by Blossom’s multifaceted portrayal of Ezra, making him both pitiable and petrifying. "Deranged" effectively transcends conventional horror norms by providing a fleshed-out backstory of its central character, creating a disturbing yet deeply engaging cinematic experience that stays true to the monstrous legacy of Ed Gein while maintaining its artistic integrity and thrilling pace.

"Deranged," backed by a creepy score featuring a looped pipe organ hymn and shot in austere Canadian locations, effectively builds tension, especially when concentrating on Ezra Cobb's mounting insanity. The Gein influences are clear, presenting Ezra as a private monster rather than a flagrant Midwestern butcher. The film is paced steadily, retaining interest as it delves into the mind of a ghoul who gains a disturbing boost in confidence. The narrative remains sinister without being sensational, providing a consistent chiller with superior dramatic intent, complemented by a touch of directorial flair that immerses viewers into a diseased psyche.

This lesser-known film, "Deranged," will leave you thoroughly satisfied after viewing. It offers a unique portrayal of Ed Gein's story, capturing the serial killer's descent into madness before his notorious murders and tortures. Roberts Blossom delivers a fantastic performance, transforming into Ezra Cobb with such conviction that you may forever associate him with this role rather than his part in "Home Alone." The Blu-ray release features great video and audio quality, with extras that, while strange, are worth watching.

In conclusion, "Deranged" stands out as an effective psychological horror film that skillfully avoids over-the-top sensationalism. Its methodical pacing, compelling score, and standout performance by Roberts Blossom combine to create an engaging and chilling experience. This Blu-ray release is highly recommended for its technical quality and the intriguing extras it offers.