Beneath the Valley of the Ultra-Vixens 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

Severin Films presents "Beneath the Valley of the Ultra-Vixens" on 4K UHD Blu-ray with a noteworthy HEVC/H.265 encoded 2160p transfer in 1.85:1. This release incorporates a 4K restoration that originates from the 35mm original camera negative, which faced environmental and chemical challenges. Despite these hurdles, over 100 hours of meticulous restoration work at Illuminate Studios in Hollywood has resulted in a presentation that defies expectations in terms of quality. Although the existing damage results in a less vivid palette and chunkier grain compared to previous films, it notably maintains the essence of the original photography.

Technically, the UHD transfer is well-supported by HDR10, effectively enhancing the dynamic range. The color spectrum is impressively vivid, with striking representations of blues and reds, albeit with occasional purple tinges affecting flesh tones. Close-up details on costumes and props reveal excellent clarity, often surpassing expectations given the negative's condition. Grain structure is managed well, with bitrates fluctuating between 80 and 100Mbps, ensuring stability across playback.

While the restoration does show mild discoloration and some water damage sporadically, it is largely superlative, exhibiting deep blacks, impeccable contrast, and a robust gamut that enriches shades of blue, pink, and green. The overall stability and visual fidelity are exceptional, occasionally rivaling or even surpassing prior releases. This presentation, although not without its minor flaws due to the inherent age-related wear, represents a significant and commendable digital restoration effort by Severin Films.

The audio presentation on the 4K UHD Blu-Ray of "Beneath the Valley of the Ultra-Vixens" features a dynamic DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Mono track. This setup delivers a lively experience with William Tasker's distinctive score, providing a bright and engaging auditory backdrop. The track effectively captures the film's quirky soundscape, where sound effects resonate with clarity and contribute to the film's unique atmosphere. Dialogue reproduction is clean and precise, ensuring that viewers can follow the story effortlessly without auditory distractions.

This release has integrated English subtitles as an optional feature, enhancing accessibility. The audio was meticulously remastered from original theatrical prints and one-inch tape masters, reflecting an impressive commitment to quality. While the track predominantly maintains a clean sound profile, listeners may notice occasional variations in audio quality, introducing mild hiss in specific segments. Nevertheless, the overall audio presentation distinctly supports both dialogue and score, leaving no doubt about its improvement over previous releases, particularly when compared to the LaserDisc audio found on the commentary track.

In summary, this DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Mono track offers a mostly clear and compelling audio experience for "Beneath the Valley of the Ultra-Vixens." Despite minimal imperfections, it significantly elevates the auditory quality of previous versions, making it a must-listen for aficionados seeking an authentic restoration of sound alongside the vivid 4K visuals.

The extras on the 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Beneath the Valley of the Ultra-Vixens" offer a fascinating glimpse into Russ Meyer's cinematic world. The archival audio commentary, originally on the 1997 LaserDisc release, is a candid dive into Meyer’s experiences, personal relationships, and frequent censorship battles. His unfiltered narrative style aligns with the bold themes of his films. A standout is the interview “The Latin Brünhilde,” featuring Kitten Natividad, which provides insight into her experiences working closely with Meyer. "Talk It Over," a charmingly vintage 1979 television interview hosted by Ellen Adelstein, captures Meyer discussing the unique nature of his work, introducing new terminologies like "limbercore." The sequel interview "Still Talking It Over" revisits Adelstein for modern reflections. Each featurette enriches the understanding of Meyer’s work and legacy.

Extras included in this disc:

• Archival Audio Commentary: Insightful commentary from Russ Meyer discussing his career.
• The Latin Brünhilde: Kitten Natividad shares her experiences working with Meyer.
• Talk It Over: A 1979 TV interview with Meyer discussing his film style.
• Still Talking It Over: A recent follow-up interview with Ellen Adelstein.
• Trailer: Promotional trailer for the film.

"Beneath the Valley of the Ultra-Vixens" marks Russ Meyer's provocative exit from his cinematic career. The film, released in 4K UHD by Severin Films, embodies Meyer’s penchant for burlesque and satire. Employing his characteristic style, it offers a humorous yet extravagant depiction of small-town USA, reminiscent of a documentary aesthetic. Kitten Natividad stars as Lavonia Shed, one of Meyer's archetypal voluptuous vixens caught in a tumultuous relationship with her inert partner Lamar. The vacuous narrative is driven by vignettes showcasing a playful and cheeky examination of sexuality, anchored with Meyer's trademark candidness. Roger Ebert's contribution to the screenplay continues the wry tradition established in "Beyond the Valley of the Dolls," offering an implicit commentary on its predecessor while retaining a facetious tone.

The Ultra-Vixens 4K transfer offers a visually enhanced experience that brings Meyer's bold storytelling to life with clarity and vibrancy, essential for appreciating the film’s provocative and bawdy undertones. The limited yet deliberate use of sets lends a certain theatrical charm that heightens the comedic absurdity of the narrative. This release also includes substantial supplemental content, featuring archival commentary by Meyer and a revealing interview with Natividad that delves into their on-set experiences and interpersonal dynamics. These elements enrich the viewing experience by providing context and authenticity, humorously blurring the lines between Meyer's fictional universe and reality. Overall, "Beneath the Valley of the Ultra-Vixens" serves as both a homage to and parody of Meyer’s earlier works, underscoring his legacy in the landscape of exploitative cinema.

The 4K UHD Blu-Ray release of "Beneath the Valley of the Ultra-Vixens" by Severin Films offers a meticulously crafted presentation, honoring the unorthodox cinematic flair of Russ Meyer. The transfer to UHD provides a compelling visual experience—rich and vibrant, accurately preserving Meyer's signature aesthetic. The high resolution highlights the bold color palette and dynamic compositions, critical to appreciating the film's kitsch charm. Audio quality is equally impressive, delivering crisp and balanced sound that complements the film's energetic pace.

Supplementary content in this release is thoughtfully curated, granting insights into the film's production and Meyer's controversial legacy. These extras enhance the viewer's understanding of Meyer's niche within independent cinema. The attention to technical restoration underscores an emphasis on historical authenticity, enabling both seasoned fans and newcomers to appreciate the film as Meyer likely intended. Despite the inherent challenges posed by the original negative's condition, the restoration team has indeed succeeded in bringing Meyer's audacious vision back to life.

In conclusion, Russ Meyer's films may not align with modern sensibilities but possess a charm that transcends traditional filmmaking. His irreverent approach shines through in "Beneath the Valley of the Ultra-Vixens," making it an intriguing addition to any film enthusiast's collection. Severin Films' excellent presentation and thoughtful supplements honor Meyer’s work, offering a comprehensive package for a deep dive into this cult classic. Whether a devoted fan or new to Meyer’s filmography, this release presents an unmissable opportunity to explore his unique artistic footprint in exquisite detail.