The Vampire Lovers Blu-ray Review

"The Vampire Lovers" arrives on Blu-ray courtesy of Shout! Factory's Scream Factory imprint, featuring an AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio. The presentation showcases notable improvement from previous DVD releases, yet is not devoid of flaws. The original film elements display various age-related issues such as scratches, fading, and minimal image softness, particularly in midrange and wide shots. Close-ups, however, retain above-average fine detail. Color accuracy varies with reds sometimes leaning towards orange and flesh tones exhibiting a ruddy-pink hue. These imperfections are reflective of the condition of the source material rather than the encoding process itself.

Despite the prevalence of white specks, dirt, and occasional brown vertical lines, the overall visual presentation remains compelling. The 1080p resolution offers distinct, well-defined lines in the set design, costumes, and the baroque architecture of the mansions. Facial features appear healthy and revealing, adding depth to character close-ups. The 1.85:1 image displays strong, well-balanced contrast with bold colors and rich saturation in primary hues, though certain scenes occasionally exhibit a slight yellow tint. Black levels are commendably deep and provide intense shadows.

In summary, this Blu-ray release, while presenting several visible issues related to the original film's preservation status, still stands as a significant enhancement over previous editions. Fans with tempered expectations will likely find satisfaction in this version, although a more extensive restoration could further elevate "The Vampire Lovers" to its full visual potential.

The audio presentation of "The Vampire Lovers" on Blu-ray features a lossless DTS-HD Master Audio Mono track that impressively retains the film's original monaural design. Though some occasional minimal hiss, pops, and cracks can be detected, these do not detract significantly from the overall sound quality. Dialogue is clear and precise, ensuring intelligibility even through thick accents and high-pitched voices. Moments like the General's discovery of fang marks are accentuated by the hyperbolic score, which maintains good fidelity and a reasonably wide dynamic range.

Listeners will appreciate the strong and enjoyable DTS-HD Master Audio soundtrack, which keeps all action centered as intended. Despite making Automated Dialogue Replacement (ADR) more noticeable, this approach ensures that every word is crisp and coherent. The soundtrack provides extensive dynamics and acoustical details, with an expansive and immersive soundstage. Although the low-end frequency response doesn’t extend deeply, it still provides a commendable sense of depth and presence, enriching the high-resolution track with layers of clarity and a welcoming audio experience.

The Blu-ray edition of “The Vampire Lovers” provides an impressive array of insightful and engaging extras that brilliantly complement the main feature. The highlight is a commentary track led by filmmaker Jonathan Sothcott, featuring director Roy Ward Baker, screenwriter Tudor Gates, and star Ingrid Pitt. This commentary is packed with rich anecdotes and historical insights. Additionally, "Feminine Fantastique: Resurrecting The Vampire Lovers" is an invaluable short documentary shedding light on adapting Le Fanu's novella and examining production decisions. Madeline Smith’s interview, titled "Vampire Lover!", is deeply personal and engaging, while Ingrid Pitt’s reading of “Carmilla” offers an atmospheric capture of the novella’s essence. The collection is rounded off with a comprehensive photo gallery, a theatrical trailer, and a unique radio spot. These extras provide a robust backdrop to the classic film.

Extras included in this disc:

• Feminine Fantastique: Resurrecting The Vampire Lovers: Insightful background on adapting Le Fanu's novella.
• Reading of Carmilla by Ingrid Pitt: Video audiobook with film stills.
• Madeline Smith: Vampire Lover!: In-depth interview with the actress.
• Photo Gallery: Collection of production stills.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original preview.
• Radio Spot: Vintage promotional clip.
• Commentary with Roy Ward Baker, Ingrid Pitt, and Tudor Gates: Filled with historical context and behind-the-scenes stories.

"The Vampire Lovers" is often regarded as a revolutionary work within the Hammer Films canon, standing out for its pioneering explicitness and provocative approach to vampire lore. The film, directed by Roy Ward Baker and based on Sheridan Le Fanu's novella "Carmilla," departs significantly from the restrained representation of sensuality that had characterized previous vampire movies. Released in 1970, it marks Hammer's attempt to align its horror offerings with the evolving sensibilities of contemporary audiences influenced by Polanski's "Rosemary's Baby" and Romero's "Night of the Living Dead." This transition is evident in the film's overt depiction of nudity and lesbianism, elements handled with a creative visual style by Baker and cinematographer Moray Grant. The film’s gothic atmosphere combines with a now explicit sensuality to create a unique entry within Hammer’s oeuvre.

Ingrid Pitt’s portrayal of Carmilla is engaging, and the film follows her character's infiltration into the lives of her victims with a predatory elegance. The narrative begins with a captivating prologue featuring Baron Hartog, played by Douglas Wilmer, on a vampiric hunt, setting a tone of eerie suspense. As the story progresses, we see Carmilla seducing Emma (Madeline Smith) under the guise of friendship and hospitality in Mr. Morton’s (George Cole) household, revealing underlying themes of forbidden desire and seduction. While staying true to Le Fanu’s fundamental plot elements, "The Vampire Lovers" introduces additional characters like the enigmatic man in black, whose role remains somewhat ambiguous but adds to the film's mysterious allure.

Although some aspects of Tudor Gates’ script feel stilted and occasionally veer into camp territory, "The Vampire Lovers" maintains an irresistible charm through its blend of eroticism and horror. Although Peter Cushing’s role as General von Spielsdorf is unfortunately limited, his performance adds gravitas to the tale of vengeance and loss. This film, the first in what became known as the Karnstein Trilogy, has garnered cult status over the years, appreciated both for its audacious content and as a fascinating milestone in the evolution of gothic horror cinema.

"The Vampire Lovers" Blu-ray brings the first film of The Karnstein Trilogy, adapted from Sheridan Le Fanu's novella "Carmilla". This film shines as a stylish and slightly mawkish attempt by Hammer Films to attract new viewers. True to its B-horror roots, the movie effortlessly balances its rich gothic atmosphere and intriguing erotic undertones. Though the dialogue occasionally feels stilted and the production somewhat maudlin, the film offers wonderful photography and an engaging aesthetic, aligning well with the sophisticated customs of the admired production company.

The Blu-ray release of "The Vampire Lovers" is a mixed bag technically, but overall satisfying. While the video quality is less than perfect, it does not detract significantly from the experience. The audio presentation is strong, which enhances the film's atmospheric tone and tension. The supplements included may be relatively modest, yet they contribute to a more complete enjoyment of this classic horror film.

Most individuals with an overt fondness for "The Vampire Lovers" are acutely aware of its occasional silliness and illogical plot points, but these aspects contribute to the movie's enduring charm and unique allure. Those with a slight bent toward appreciating campiness will likely find the film's incipient lesbianism appealing, especially as it's depicted in a discursive manner. Despite not being particularly scary, with some scenes featuring graphic blood and gore, the movie has a charmingly goofy quality that makes it unexpectedly enjoyable. This Blu-ray is recommended for its engaging avenue into gothic horror and its amusing presentation.