Cannibals in the Streets 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

Kino Lorber's 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Cannibals in the Streets" offers an impressive visual presentation, despite the absence of Dolby Vision or HDR grading. The 4K master, sourced from StudioCanal and utilized for both 4K and 1080p releases, is outstanding. The native 4K presentation stands out particularly in terms of image stability and sharpness, showcasing an excellent use of darker visuals with a plethora of nuanced shades. These dark scenes, such as those in tunnel footage, are rendered with exceptional clarity. Primaries and supporting colors maintain a healthy, vibrant appearance devoid of any digital artifacts that could compromise the viewing experience.

The overall video quality is superb, with a natural grain structure that adds to the authenticity of the film without overwhelming the viewer. Instances of excessive grain are minimal, ensuring that most of the film appears sharp and detailed. Kino Cult’s restoration from the 35mm negative has yielded rich and vibrant colors, particularly the reds which stand out due to their inherent significance in the film. The 1080p presentation also holds up remarkably, though perceptive viewers with larger screens might notice a slight difference in tightness compared to the native 4K resolution. This thoughtful and meticulous transfer elevates "Cannibals in the Streets" beyond the typical exploitation genre visual expectations and offers a near-pristine cinematic experience.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Cannibals in the Streets" features a robust audio presentation with two key options: a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track and an optional DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track. The 2.0 track is the standout, showcasing clear, crisp dialogue that consistently stands out against the varied background effects and the bass-heavy, funky exploitation score. This lossless track is remarkably healthy and stable, successfully carrying over the reliability observed in its initial Blu-ray release.

The DTS-HD MA 5.1 mix, while similar to the 2.0 stereo mix, does introduce some nuanced surround effects. These mainly include the sporadic echoing voices in sewers and selective sound effects from elements like flamethrowers and motorcycles, though these additions are relatively sparse. Despite these occasional enhancements, the overall audio experience remains predominantly front-heavy. The score itself provides ample low-frequency effects (LFEs), ensuring that the subwoofer gets plenty of engagement, though it often doesn't extend fully to the rear speakers.

Overall, both audio tracks deliver commendably, but the 2.0 track slightly edges out with its superior clarity and natural emphasis on dialogues. While contemporary big-budget action films might offer more dynamic and potent audio experiences, this release's audio tracks hold their own, providing an immersive and enjoyable auditory experience for fans of the genre.

The extras included in the 4K UHD Blu-Ray of "Cannibals in the Streets" deliver a well-rounded and deeply insightful exploration of the film and its production. Featuring a meticulously crafted audio commentary by the esteemed novelist and critic Tim Lucas, the package provides a rich historical context. A standout is the vintage documentary "Cannibal Apocalypse Redux," which delves into the evolution of Italian horror cinema in the '80s with archival interviews. Actor Tony King’s newly produced interview offers a personal touch, recounting his experience on set. The inclusion of location tours, alternate openings, and vintage promotional materials further enriches the viewer’s understanding of the film's historical significance. Presented in a mix of SD and HD formats, this curated collection appeals to both newcomers and long-term enthusiasts of exploitation cinema.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: Exclusive audio commentary by Tim Lucas.
• Cannibal Apocalypse Redux: Vintage documentary focusing on production history.
• Cannibal King: New video interview with actor Tony King.
• Apocalypse in the Streets: Video tour of key filming locations.
• Alternate Title Opening Sequence: Using "Invasion of the Flesh Hunters" title.
• Trailer: Vintage trailer.
• Teaser: Vintage Japanese teaser.
• Cover: Reversible cover with vintage poster art.

Antonio Margheriti's "Cannibal Apocalypse" (1980), also known as "Cannibals in the Streets," emerges as an intriguing product of Italian genre cinema, plunging viewers into a chaotic blend of Vietnam War trauma and flesh-eating hysteria. The plot centers on Vietnam veteran Norman Hopper, played by John Saxon, as he grapples with horrific memories and a cannibalistic affliction obtained from his time in combat. This film stands out for its raw depiction of psychological horror intertwined with explicit gore. Hopper’s post-war turmoil is reawakened by fellow soldier Charlie Bukowski, leading to a harrowing spree of violence that engulfs their community.

Despite its compelling premise, "Cannibal Apocalypse" presents several structural weaknesses. Director Margheriti, under the pseudonym Anthony Dawson, constructs an atmosphere that fluctuates between chilling and disjointed. While scenes like Hopper’s internal battle with his transformation are effectively disturbing, other sequences, such as the awkward seduction scene and uninspired street brawls, dilute the film’s intended tone of terror. The technical execution reflects typical '80s budget constraints, resulting in uneven quality—particularly evident in the rushed action sequences where peripheral activities appear unconvincing. Nonetheless, Alexander Blonksteiner’s evocative score contributes significantly to the film's tense ambiance.

Kino Lorber's 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Cannibal Apocalypse" heightens its presentation value. Sourced from a StudioCanal 4K master, the uncut version runs approximately 97 minutes and offers both DTS 2.0 stereo and DTS 5.1 surround audio options. This edition features reversible cover art, combining newly commissioned artwork with vintage poster designs, catering to both new viewers and nostalgic fans. Supplemental materials include commentary by Tim Lucas, an interview with actor Tony King, and a vintage documentary on the film's production history, enriching the contextual understanding of this exploitation classic.

Kino Cult's 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Cannibals in the Streets" offers a visually impressive and technically robust restoration that both aficionados and new viewers of Italian exploitation cinema will appreciate. The film itself is a disjointed yet intriguing blend, attempting to serve as a cannibal chiller, a horror experience with a social message, and an action-packed thriller. However, these elements often conflict, resulting in a collage that lacks coherence. Despite this, the movie holds appeal during late-night viewings and for dedicated fans of the genre.

The restoration work by Kino Cult is commendable, delivering sharp visuals that make the most of the native 4K resolution, especially beneficial for larger screens or projection setups. The sound mix, too, is balanced well, enhancing the overall cinematic experience. Additionally, the suite of special features included in this release—ranging from in-depth historical explorations to informative commentary—adds significant value, catering to both newcomers and long-time genre enthusiasts.

This release is not high art, but a respectable example of visceral and provocative exploitation cinema with an underlying commentary on societal chaos. While John Saxon's ambivalence toward the film is understandable given its narrative fragmentation, those with an appreciation for Italian genre cinema's quirks will find something to enjoy.

In conclusion, it’s pretty easy to tell why John Saxon was not particularly impressed with Cannibal Apocalypse. The film attempts to be a couple of different things -- a cannibal chiller, a horror film with a social conscience, and something of an exotic action thriller on steroids -- but ends up being only a collage of ideas that struggle to coexist and eventually compromise each other. It has its moments, but it feels like it should have been a much more coherent, and possibly even wilder, film. I still think that it could be somewhat attractive if seen in the wee hours of the night, but it is a small film that ultimately only seasoned connoisseurs of Italian genre cinema would appreciate.

This combo pack release allows you to see the recent 4K restoration of Cannibal Apocalypse in native 4K. I like this restoration a lot and think that it looks great in native 4K. If you have a very big TV or project and want the best presentation of the film, I suggest that you consider picking up the combo pack. RECOMMENDED to the fans.