Evil Dead II Blu-ray Review

The "Evil Dead II" Blu-ray release presents a mixed bag in terms of video quality. Given its 1080p/AVC MPEG-4 transfer, the film's inherently challenging source material isn't pristine by modern standards. While the palette appears more robust than previous DVD editions, showcasing vibrant reds and improved color breadth, several inherent issues persist. Detail has improved, revealing background elements previously unnoticed, with enhanced contrast offering dark blacks and clean whites, contributing to a greater depth perception.

Despite these improvements, significant drawbacks remain. The Blu-ray edition suffers from notable edge enhancement, excessive noise reduction, and crushing in darker scenes, leading to a loss of detail and a plastic-like appearance of some actors. Edge enhancements and noise disruptions are prevalent, with brightness levels slightly elevated over DVD versions. Additionally, the film’s print remains riddled with minor scratches, blemishes, and wavering contrast, detracting from an otherwise vivid presentation.

Overall, while certain enhancements bring more life to the film compared to its predecessor DVDs, including THX-endorsed editions, these improvements are marginal. The Blu-ray does offer brighter visuals and slightly sharper details but remains marred by technical constraints and the nostalgic yet limited film stock used. Audiences should temper their expectations for a high-definition transformation akin to contemporary releases, though fans of the franchise will find some updated visual merit.

The Blu-ray release of "Evil Dead II" offers an audio presentation through both a Dolby Digital 5.1 and a PCM 5.1 Uncompressed soundtrack. Both are impressive in their own right, with the PCM track boasting a 48 kHz/16-Bit/4.6 Mbps specification, contrasted with the Dolby Digital at 640 kbps. While the audio is a marked improvement over previous iterations, particularly in terms of dynamic range and LFE presence, it is not without its quirks. The dialogue occasionally sounds distant or uneven, often feeling detached from the visual elements due to what seems like budget constraints during post-production. Despite these minor inconsistencies in dialogue levels, the track generally retains coherence and is devoid of lip-sync issues.

The immersive qualities of this mix cannot be overstated, as ambient effects create an engaging surround environment. Particularly noteworthy are scenes involving supernatural elements, where directional sound effects and a robust bass presence bring a tangible intensity to the room, adding a gripping edge to the viewing experience. The sound design in these instances leverages dynamic panning and effects that make excellent use of rear speakers, delivering a compelling auditory spectacle that can captivate even when minor disparities surface.

Despite the occasional audio imbalance—where dialogue can get lost against more raucous musical or action sequences—the overall audio performance is significant enough to satisfy fans seeking an upgraded experience. These limitations are relatively minor and do not detract substantially from an otherwise stellar presentation, making this release a substantial enhancement over earlier DVD editions.

The Blu-ray release of "Evil Dead II" offers a robust selection of bonus features, primarily headlined by an engaging commentary track. This track features writer/director Sam Raimi, actor Bruce Campbell, co-writer Scott Spiegel, and make-up artist Greg Nicotero. Their camaraderie and detailed recollections provide a rich listening experience, though the technical details may overwhelm some viewers. Notably, the commentary is filled with entertaining anecdotes and playful banter, particularly driven by Campbell's humor. The disc includes two significant featurettes; "The Gore the Merrier" provides a deep dive into the special effects with insights from the crew, while "Evil Dead 2: Behind-The-Screams," a photo-based feature narrated by Tom Sullivan, offers a look at the film's practical effects. Notably absent are extras from previous editions, such as documentaries and galleries, but for fans and newcomers alike, this collection remains a valuable exploration of the film's production.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary Track: Engaging discussion with Sam Raimi, Bruce Campbell, Scott Spiegel, and Greg Nicotero.
• Evil Dead 2: Behind-The-Screams: Photo montage with narration by Tom Sullivan.
• The Gore the Merrier: Documentary focused on the film's special effects.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original trailer presented in 480p.

"Evil Dead II: Dead By Dawn," directed by Sam Raimi, stands as a hallmark of the horror-comedy genre. Released six years after its predecessor, the film deftly blends humor and horror with an execution that remains influential. The movie stars Bruce Campbell as Ash Williams, reprising his role with a fervor that cements his status as a B-movie icon. His portrayal of Ash is pivotal, with his performance offering a balance of humor and intensity that elevates the entire narrative. Campy yet refined in its approach, the film navigates the fine line between genuine scares and over-the-top humor, crafting an experience that is both gripping and entertaining—a macabre dance that pulls audiences into a whirlwind of chaos and comedy.

The narrative begins with a recap designed as a re-filmed introduction due to legal constraints, allowing new viewers to quickly grasp the story. This sets the stage for Ash's battle against evil forces within a remote cabin in the woods. As demons possess bodies and events spiral into madness, Ash is armed with his iconic chainsaw and shotgun, cutting through a nightmarish reality. Alongside him is Annie Knowby (Sarah Berry), who supports the battle against possessing demons that breach bodily boundaries—each scene bursting with manic energy and tension.

Raimi imbues "Evil Dead II" with distinctive set pieces such as the cellar Deadite attack and the possessed hand sequence. While occasionally bordering on the camp due to some dated effects and supporting performances, Raimi's direction ensures these elements work within a cohesive tonal framework, maintaining a firm grip on the narrative's internal logic. The result is a refreshingly unique spectacle that continues to resonate, offering thrills alongside unintended bouts of laughter. With its brilliant execution of horror-comedy set pieces, it's no wonder this film has left an indelible imprint on its genre.

"Evil Dead II: Dead By Dawn" remains a foundational piece within the horror-comedy subgenre, captivating audiences with its unique blend of humor, gore, and innovative practical effects. The Blu-ray release invites both new viewers and die-hard fans to relish its eccentric charm. Despite being over two decades old, the film's sound design vividly propels the viewer into the chaotic world of Ash Williams, enhancing the ludicrous yet enthralling atmosphere. While the edge enhancement in picture quality could have been restrained, it still presents a marked improvement over previous DVD offerings, particularly for those transitioning from older formats such as laserdisc or VHS.

The supplementary materials, though recycled, continue to serve as an enriching complement to the film. Longtime fans and collectors will appreciate their return, while newcomers will find them insightful and entertaining. This set of extras provides an additional layer of appreciation for the film’s impact and the legacy it continues to uphold within horror circles.

In conclusion, while not the pinnacle of high-definition releases on the market, this Blu-ray edition of "Evil Dead II" serves as a valuable addition to any horror aficionado’s collection. Its audio and visual enhancements, coupled with robust supplements, ensure it delivers a fulfilling viewing experience. Particularly recommended for those expanding their library from DVD or earlier formats, this Blu-ray promises an enjoyable mix of adrenaline-pumping terror and zany antics, making it a splendid choice for seasonal marathons or any horror-themed gatherings.