Fascination Blu-ray Review

Kino Lorber presents Jean Rollin's "Fascination" in a 1.66:1 aspect ratio via an AVC encode sourced directly from the 35mm negative. The transfer exhibits an authentic filmic texture, free from overt digital manipulation such as edge enhancement or DNR. The grain structure is naturally resolved and never overbearing, lending a robust quality to the image. Although minor wear and tear are occasionally visible, they are minimal and do not detract from the overall viewing experience. The film's visual aesthetic remains faithful to Rollin's style, characterized by overcast and raw imagery that retains clarity and vibrant color saturation when required.

The deep blacks, while strong, occasionally obscure finer details, but this is a minor issue in an otherwise visually compelling presentation. Highlights remain controlled, with no blooming in whites or banding issues noticed. Colors punctuate the otherwise drab palette effectively: blood is bright and theatrical, while flames showcase impressive depth and warmth. Skin tones appear pale yet accurate, with occasional sparkle and definition in the eyes. Apparel and material textures, including sheers and lace featured in various scenes, are distinctly discernible.

Overall, the high-definition detail offered in this Blu-ray release is a considerable improvement over previous VHS and DVD versions. Blacks are deep, though they sometimes crush fine details—this slight drawback is likely inherent to the source material. Notably, Kino's transfer maintains strict fidelity to the source without unnecessary digital adjustments, allowing some minor specs and debris to surface occasionally. Yet, these imperfections only add to the authenticity of the presentation. As expected, Kino’s treatment ensures the best possible visual reproduction of Rollin's work, making this Blu-ray release a significant visual upgrade for fans of his cinema.

Kino's Blu-ray release of "Fascination" maintains the integrity of the original French audio track, presented in LPCM 2.0 mono. This track lacks an English dub but includes English subtitles for accessibility. The audio output is notably robust, with voices that deliver a forceful impact, particularly Jean-Marie Lamaire, whose performance can leave listeners with ringing ears during the film's earlier scenes. While the dialogue maintains clarity, occasional age-related tinniness and design limitations are evident. Nevertheless, the audio track remains vividly clean. Sound effects, although not extensive, are well-articulated, including solid gunshots and the visceral slicing of a scythe. The naturalistic sound design enhances immersive incidental sounds such as footsteps and doors, providing a punchy level of detail and a spacious feel despite the lack of surround mixing.

Philippe D'Aram's score provides a haunting backdrop with segments of Gregorian chanting and moaning which add depth to the atmosphere. Despite being relatively low-key in comparison to his later works, such as "The Living Dead Girl," the audio design remains compelling. The track's historical authenticity is preserved with some inherent hisses, hum, and occasional crackling which do not significantly detract from the listening experience. Overall, this uncompressed mix showcases a vividness and forceful presence that belie its age and budget constraints, illustrating a thoughtful and dynamic soundscape that complements Jean Rollin's unique cinematic style.

The extras on the Blu Ray of "Fascination" offer a rich and immersive exploration of Jean Rollin's work and influence. The 20-page booklet by Video Watchdog's Tim Lukas delves into Rollin’s signature style, thematic motifs, and his distinctive filmic influences, complemented by heartfelt contributions from Redemption’s Nigel Wingrove. The disc also features two deleted sex scenes, presented in silent 1080p footage due to lost audio elements, offering a glimpse into Rollin's raw, uncut versions intended for more exploitation-oriented producers. The British TV series Eurotika’s episode titled "Virgins and Vampires" provides an enlightening 24-minute profile on Rollin, capturing his jovial and reflective commentary on his films' reception and his recurring themes. Lastly, fans can delve into the original French trailers for numerous Rollin classics, presented in high-definition.

Extras included in this disc:

• Deleted Sex Scenes: Two silent, uncut versions of the film’s major sex scenes.
• Virgins and Vampires: Profile of Jean Rollin from British TV series Eurotika.
• Original French Trailers: High-definition trailers for Rollin's classic films.
• Booklet: 20-page booklet by Tim Lukas with essays on Rollin's work.

"Fascination" by Jean Rollin demands a particular palate, pivoting heavily on surreal and esoteric themes that may bemuse newcomers. Unlike conventional vampire narratives, it intertwines gothic romanticism and dreamy surrealism, delivering a mixture of non-sensical turns that require a suspension of disbelief. Despite the often woeful dialogue and subpar acting, this film compensates generously with sumptuous settings and a hallucinatory tone. The gothic and decadent atmosphere, along with the prurient allure of the stunning women, creates a dreamlike and hypnotic canvas. Its uniqueness lies in balancing bizarre imagery with palpable sensuality, positioning "Fascination" as Rollin's most narratively coherent work and a standout in his oeuvre.

The film wastes no time establishing its dark premise: high-society women indulging in the sanguinary act of drinking ox-blood within a crimson-soaked abattoir, hinting at more than just health benefits. As the doomed thief Marc takes refuge in a secluded chateau, the story unfurls into an intriguing power play involving two enigmatic chambermaids. Their sexual dynamics build layers of suspense and feigned vulnerability, climaxing with the arrival of aristocratic women whose sinister intentions become evident. It's a well-structured narrative that, for once, doesn't rely solely on dream logic to advance.

Technically, "Fascination" outshines many of Rollin's earlier works with improved editing, moody camerawork, and competently staged action sequences. Brigitte Lahie stands out with her transfixing presence, especially in visually striking scenes like her scythe-wielding walk across the bridge. Despite occasional campy performances often associated with casting no-name actors or porn stars in dramatic roles, the film lives up to its name. It seduces and mesmerizes, catering to fans of gothic erotica who will cherish its brazen nudity, eroticism, and sinister ritualism. This Blu-ray release by Redemption and Kino ensures that Rollin's unique vision receives the respect it deserves with a faithful and film-like transfer, primed to enchant genre aficionados.

Unheralded horror filmmaker Jean Rollins is finally getting his high definition due, with five of his early films being released on the 24th in wonderful Blu-ray editions by Kino-Lorber and Redemption Films. Fascination is my own personal favorite--it's surprisingly elegant and features some of Rollin's most memorable imagery--but as I've said before, any self-respecting gothic horror fan is going to want to own all of these films. Kino has done a fantastic job with these titles. Recommended!

Jean Rollin's gothic horror masterpiece, "Fascination," has been meticulously resurrected in high definition, thanks to Kino-Lorber and Redemption Films. This Blu-ray release truly highlights Rollin's unique vision, offering a film that is both breathtakingly elegant and atmospherically eerie. The transfer quality is impeccable, showcasing exceptional clarity and preserving the haunting cinematography that fans have come to cherish. The color grading is particularly noteworthy, capturing the delicate interplay of light and shadow that Rollin masterfully employs throughout the film.

Moreover, the Blu-ray edition comes with a robust selection of bonus features that provide valuable insights into Rollin's creative process. Interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and insightful commentary tracks enhance the viewing experience, making this release a treasure trove for both aficionados and new viewers alike. The sound design has also been carefully restored, ensuring that the film’s atmospheric score and nuanced soundtrack are delivered with crispness and depth.

In conclusion, "Fascination" on Blu-ray stands as a definitive edition that does justice to Jean Rollin’s gothic horror legacy. The combined efforts of Kino-Lorber and Redemption Films result in a package that is both visually stunning and rich in supplementary content. This release is an essential addition to the collection of any self-respecting gothic horror aficionado. Highly recommended.