From Beyond Blu-ray Review

Shout! Factory's video presentation of "From Beyond" brings a considerable level of clarity and detail to the 1.78:1 AVC-encoded, 1080p transfer that should satisfy fans of the film. While soft cinematography is a characteristic of many 80s films, this transfer successfully maintains the original cinematic aesthetic while enhancing detail. The high-definition transfer, sourced from the 2007 master, exposes intricate details such as facial lines and detailed creature makeup, allowing viewers to appreciate the extensive effort put into practical effects. Skin tones are notably accurate, from Barbara Crampton's pale complexion to the more nuanced tones of other characters. The color reproduction is especially noteworthy during Resonator sequences, with deep pinks and purples saturating the screen in a visually arresting manner.

Despite its strengths, the transfer is not without flaws. There is occasional softness and light noise reduction, which some may find detracting. Certain parts of the film show minor noise and a few instances of edge enhancement, but these are not frequent enough to substantially impact viewing pleasure. Notable transitions in contrast, particularly during specific scenes such as the brain-eating sequence, might momentarily jolt viewers but don't significantly detract from the overall experience. Elements like the vibrant red lipstick and colorful accents within a generally subdued color palette stand out and add visual interest.

This Blu-ray release has some imperfections, but it remains a commendable transfer given the film's age and original visual style. The image quality upholds a high standard for home video presentations of "From Beyond," likely surpassing even the original theatrical prints in some respects. Shout! Factory has delivered an edition that will appeal visually to both hardcore enthusiasts and new viewers alike.

The Blu-ray release of "From Beyond" features a robust DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 lossless soundtrack that exemplifies Shout! Factory's commitment to audio quality. The 5.1 mix delivers a well-rounded auditory experience with rich dynamics, from the low hum of the Resonator to the piercing shrieks of Barbara Crampton. The soundstage is convincingly immersive, with the machine's activation scenes providing an expansive room-filling presence and delicate yet essential surround support. Richard Band's eerie score permeates the environment with precision, highlighting the plucking of strings with clarity and depth. Dialogue delivery is consistently clear and centered, even amidst the most chaotic sequences, ensuring that every word is audible without distortion.

The audio comes with two options: a 5.1 mix and a 2.0 DTS-HD Master Audio track. The 5.1 track particularly stands out for its dynamic range and directionality, effectively utilizing all channels to enhance the film's more intense and horrific scenes. The balance between sound effects, music, and dialogue is notably well-managed, ensuring that critical audio elements maintain their integrity without overpowering each other. While the surround activity isn't overly aggressive, it is used appropriately to build atmosphere and tension. Despite some minor harshness in dialogue due to the original low-budget recordings, the overall mix remains impressively strong and engrossing.

For those who prefer a more straightforward audio presentation, the 2.0 mix is also commendable, offering solid clarity and presence, though understandably less enveloping than the 5.1 mix. Both tracks are backed by the inclusion of English subtitles, making this release accessible to a wider audience. Overall, this audio package provides a gratifying listening experience, making "From Beyond" a worthy addition for horror enthusiasts and audiophiles alike.

The Blu-ray release of "From Beyond" offers a comprehensive suite of extras that cater to both casual viewers and die-hard fans. Highlighted by two distinct audio commentaries—one by Director Stuart Gordon, Producer Brian Yuzna, and cast members, which is lively and anecdote-filled but occasionally chaotic; another by Screenwriter Dennis Paoli, offering a more academic and insightful touch—the disc leaves no stone unturned. Additional interviews with key cast and crew, such as Barbara Crampton, Jeffrey Combs, and Executive Producer Charles Band, delve into behind-the-scenes stories and the nuances of the production. Special mention goes to the featurette on the film's extensive makeup and creature effects, providing invaluable technical details for aficionados of practical effects. The inclusion of past DVD features, although slightly altered in runtime, ensures a rich and varied supplementary experience.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Discussion with Stuart Gordon, Brian Yuzna, Barbara Crampton, and Jeffrey Combs.
• Audio Commentary: Screenwriter Dennis Paoli’s detailed analysis.
• Multiple Dimensions: Examination of makeup & creature effects with SFX artists.
• Paging Dr. McMichaels: Interview with actress Barbara Crampton.
• A Tortured Soul: Interview with actor Jeffrey Combs.
• An Empire Production: Interview with Executive Producer Charles Band.
• The Director’s Perspective: Insights from Stuart Gordon.
• The Editing Room Lost and Found: Recovery of lost footage.
• Interview with the Composer: Insights from Richard Band.
• Photo Gallery
• Trailer

In "From Beyond," Stuart Gordon magnificently adapts an H.P. Lovecraft tale, delivering a visually grotesque and emotionally riveting horror film. The plot revolves around scientists Crawford Tillinghast (Jeffrey Combs) and Edward Pretorius (Ted Sorel), who create "The Resonator," a machine designed to stimulate the Pineal gland. When activated, the device opens a portal to another dimension, unleashing horrifying creatures. Pretorius is killed by one of these beings, and Tillinghast is institutionalized until Dr. Katherine McMichaels (Barbara Crampton) believes his outlandish story. Along with former football player Bubba (Ken Foree), they return to confront their nightmarish findings. The film blends science fiction with horror, exploring themes of rapid evolution and the boundary-erasing consequences of scientific hubris.

Gordon's masterful direction, coupled with the grotesque practical effects, brings Lovecraft’s nightmarish visions to life. The creatures born from the dimensional overlap range from eel-like horrors to a monstrous Pretorius, whose physical transformation is as disturbing as it is memorable. The movie’s atmosphere is both eerie and suffocating, buttressed by a score that amplifies its unsettling nature. Unlike its darkly comedic predecessor "Re-Animator," "From Beyond" is relentlessly dark and humorless, heightening its portrayal of mankind's confrontation with the unknown.

The performances are headlined by Combs and Crampton, who both excel in their roles. Combs portrays the tortured Tillinghast with depth, making his slide into paranoia believable. Crampton’s turn as McMichaels reveals her transformation from a prudish scientist to an individual consumed by the Resonator’s power, capped by a notable scene where she dons an S&M outfit. Ted Sorel's portrayal of Pretorius, even under extensive makeup, exudes malevolence that impressively punctuates the film’s narrative and thematic explorations. Despite occasional exaggerations hinting at stage productions, the acting remains grounded enough to support the film’s shocking and fascinating outlook on human interference with otherworldly realms.

The Blu-ray release of "From Beyond" is an exceptional offering for aficionados of the grotesque Sci-Fi/Horror genre. Known for its masterful makeup effects and disturbing imagery, the film delves into complex thematic explorations through its visually unsettling content. Shout! Factory has crafted a meticulously enhanced edition that boasts a superb transfer and an impressive array of special features. The quality of the video and audio is top-notch, ensuring that this is the best the movie has ever looked and sounded. This release is geared toward seasoned fans and those prepared for the intense experience that "From Beyond" delivers.

The Collector’s Edition by Shout! Factory includes significant contributions from the renowned Cliff McMillan and Michael Felsher, adding credibility to this high-quality product. The Blu-ray features a mix of previously available and new HD-exclusive special features, making it a comprehensive package for any collector. The film itself, often overshadowed by the more celebrated "Re-Animator," gains new life through this release, with its dark and disturbing atmosphere rendered in stunning detail.

In conclusion, "From Beyond" on Blu-ray not only meets but exceeds expectations, providing a definitive version of a cult classic. This release is highly recommended for both hardcore fans and horror enthusiasts who have yet to experience this uniquely unsettling film. With top-notch video and audio quality, coupled with extensive extras, it’s an essential addition to any serious collection.