One Million Years B.C. Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray release of "One Million Years B.C." impressively presents a "Brand New 4K Restoration" of the film, delivered with an AVC encoded image at a 1.85:1 aspect ratio. The picture quality is outstanding, with sharp details that highlight the special effects, sweaty close-ups of tribal warriors, and the textures in Raquel Welch's costume and makeup. The grain is filmic and preserved well, maintaining the authenticity of the original film. Colors are vivid with pronounced primaries, such as natural skintones and striking volcanic landscapes. The only noticeable flaw occurs around the 10-minute mark, where one wide shot appears soft and overly processed — an anomaly in an otherwise impeccable transfer.

Technically, the presentation ensures the film looks phenomenal in 1080p, offering both the U.S. Cut and the longer International Cut with identical high-quality visuals. Fine-tuned details and dimensional expanse are evident, from grimy close-ups to blue eyes and intricately designed creature attacks, which pop on-screen. The source material is in perfect condition, free from visible damage or debris, ensuring an engaging viewing experience.

While the audio is serviceable with DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 channel track, it lacks an overwhelming impact, providing a natural but not particularly dynamic sound experience. However, this does not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment, particularly given the limited amount of dialogue in the film. Fans of "One Million Years B.C." will find this Blu-ray release a near-flawless visual treat that enhances the experience of this classic film.

The Blu-ray audio presentation of "One Million Years B.C." is expertly delivered via a robust DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mix. This sound mix captures the film's raw and primal elements with remarkable clarity. Dialogue, albeit limited, is reasonably discernible, with grunts and muttered communications coming through effectively. The real emphasis in the audio mix lies in the scoring by Mario Nascimbene, which holds significant authority and supports the action with percussive movements that enhance the film's narrative momentum. While the instrumentation may not be ultra-sharp, it remains highly communicative, contributing to the evocative prehistoric atmosphere.

Key sound effects are another highlight of this audio presentation. Creature attacks, volcanic eruptions, and other dynamic elements deliver substantial impact, providing a much-needed auditory heft that amplifies the film's dangerous and adventurous spirit. The mix offers agreeable rumbles and satisfying volume surges that underscore the dramatic high points effectively. Despite lacking the immersive depths of modern multi-channel formats like Dolby Atmos, the DTS-HD MA 2.0 audio tracks maintain a natural and engaging soundscape. This audio mix may not showcase high-end home theater systems to their full extent, but it perfectly complements the film's visual and thematic tone, thereby ensuring an enjoyable listening experience overall.

The Blu-ray extras for "One Million Years B.C." offer a captivating dive into the making of this iconic film. With an expert commentary by film historian Tim Lucas, the International Cut provides an enlightening and detail-rich overview, albeit occasionally scene-specific. The U.S. Cut supplements include insightful interviews with Raquel Welch, Ray Harryhausen, and Martine Beswick, each candidly recounting their unique experiences and challenges during production. Raquel Welch humorously reflects on her iconic role and unexpected fame, while Harryhausen delves into the technical aspects of his special effects wizardry and dinosaur fascination. Martine Beswick shares her fond memories and shooting ordeals, rounding out a comprehensive extras package that fans and collectors will find invaluable.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: Film historian Tim Lucas offers a scene-specific, informative look at the film.
• Animated Montage of Posters and Images: A collection of promotional materials and publicity shots.
• International Trailer: A standard-definition trailer.
• In the Valley of Dinosaurs: Raquel Welch reflects humorously on her contractual obligation and fame.
• Ray Harryhausen Interview: A discussion on his inspirations and technical details on stop-motion animation.
• Martine Beswick Interview: Insights into the casting process and shooting experiences.
• U.S. Theatrical Trailer: A standard-definition trailer.

Hammer Films' "One Million Years B.C." (1966) combines primitive narrative elements with groundbreaking special effects, offering an entertaining but scientifically implausible prehistoric adventure. Directed by Don Chaffey, the film eschews historical accuracy in favor of fantastical visuals, largely driven by Ray Harryhausen's stellar stop-motion animation. While the plot centers on Tumak (John Richardson), a member of the brutal Rock Tribe, and his tumultuous journey involving various colossal creatures, Harryhausen's creations—including dinosaurs and a striking Pteranodon—are the true spectacle. Raquel Welch, as Loana from the more civilized Shell Tribe, is another visual highlight, though her role often feels more ornamental than substantive.

The narrative is minimalistic, relying heavily on grunts and basic actions to convey story beats in lieu of traditional dialogue. This arguably archaic method of storytelling immerses viewers in an ancient world but can seem antiquated compared to contemporary standards. Despite this, the film maintains energy through Mario Nascimbene's evocative score and Wilke Cooper's expansive cinematography. However, some scenes feel disjointed, wavering between earnest survival drama and almost whimsical adventure, underscored by Tom Simpson's editing that struggles to balance both tones.

Ultimately, "One Million Years B.C." is a mixed bag—while Harryhausen's compelling animation elevates the production, the simplistic plot and occasionally awkward tonal shifts can detract from overall enjoyment. The duality of serious narrative attempts alongside playful special effects and skimpy caveman attire demonstrates an era-specific filmmaking charm that might feel incongruous today. Despite its flaws, the film offers undeniable entertainment value and serves as a nostalgic capsule of 1960s genre filmmaking.

Kino Lorber's Blu-ray release of "One Million Years B.C." masterfully resurrects the 1966 adventure classic, offering both the International and U.S. Cuts. Each version boasts exceptional audiovisual restoration, giving the film a visual clarity and depth that truly revives Ray Harryhausen's iconic stop-motion creature effects. The disc set is a joy for fans, providing an almost immersive time-travel back to when dinosaurs roamed and humans struggled in a prehistoric world imagined with campy yet compelling energy.

The array of special features on this Blu-ray set is impressive. Tim Lucas' illuminating commentary on the International Cut provides a deep dive into the film's socio-political and sexual-political themes, solidifying its status as more than mere escapist fare. Lucas’ perspective bridges the gap between cinematic entertainment and cultural commentary, elevating the movie's perceived value. Complementing the commentaries are interviews from 2002 with Raquel Welch and Ray Harryhausen. Welch offers a good-humored reflection on her career-defining role, while Harryhausen's insights into his still-functional creature models are both informative and enchanting for enthusiasts of practical effects. Martine Beswick’s candid interview adds another layer of behind-the-scenes depth, reflecting both the challenges and charms of production.

In conclusion, if screeching dinosaurs and a chomping turtle don't thrill you, perhaps Raquel Welch's star-making turn will. As Tumak figures out his destiny, Welch remains a captivating focal point, balancing action and allure. "One Million Years B.C." maintains its charm through conflict, redemption, sacrifice, and just the right amount of 'jiggle,' making it quintessential escapism in a madcap prehistoric landscape. This Blu-ray release is a testament to the film’s enduring appeal and is highly recommended for collectors and new viewers alike.