Queen of Blood Blu-ray Review

The AVC encoded image (1.85:1 aspect ratio) for "Queen of Blood" presents an unusual visual amalgamation of Russian and Harrington footage. This HD transfer makes it relatively easy to discern the differences between these sources. Colors are the standout feature, with especially striking primaries that highlight blood reds and Martian greens, maintaining secure and intriguing hues. The period cinematography introduces a degree of softness to the image, yet details remain adequate, capturing facial textures and makeup limitations effectively. Design elements are clear, and delineation is satisfactory, preserving distances without issue. The source material exhibits minor wear and tear, though there’s no significant damage to be noted.

Compared to previous experiences with worn-out VHS copies, the 1.85:1 aspect ratio 1080p transfer is genuinely impressive. The blend of different film sources is part of this film's unique charm, and the HD image makes these distinctions easily identifiable. The print's vibrant color palette ensures the primaries have an appealing pop—especially the greens and reds. Film grain is preserved, providing a level of clarity and detail that offers an appreciation for the low-budget craftsmanship, from the set designs to Florence Marly's bright green makeup. The print's condition is commendable, with only minimal speckling present, making this a remarkably well-presented example of Roger Corman’s work on Blu-ray.

The audio presentation of "Queen of Blood" on Blu-ray utilizes an English DTS-HD 2.0 mix, which unfortunately encounters several clarity issues. Dialogue is primarily affected, often sounding muffled and requiring the viewer to strain to hear certain exchanges. This effect suggests that the original recordings may have been limited by the use of a single microphone, possibly misaligned with the speaking actors. The sound effects and music, however, come through clearly, making the dialogue's muddiness a more stark contrast.

The mix exhibits a generally flat soundstage, with minimal spatial activity or low-frequency presence, which aligns with tempered expectations toward a low-budget production. There are moments where the audio peaks slightly, resulting in some high-pitched distortions that can be jarring. It’s clear that while atmospherics and sound effects manage to be more forceful and appealing, the overall balance struggles due to these inherent flaws. Viewers may need to adjust their volume levels frequently to find a comfortable listening experience.

The Blu-ray release of "Queen of Blood" presents a solid array of extras that delve into the film's unique production history. Robert Skotak's interview is an extensive and insightful discussion on the movie's origins and intriguing production circumstances. Conversely, the Roger Corman interview, while highly informative, feels notably brief for such a distinguished producer, leaving one wishing for a more extended discussion. The inclusion of the original theatrical trailer rounds out the extras, providing a nostalgic glimpse into the film's initial marketing. Collectively, these extras deepen appreciation for this cult favorite, even if some segments might leave viewers wanting more.

Extras included in this disc:

• Interview with Robert Skotak: An in-depth exploration of the movie's production origins.
• Interview with Roger Corman: A brief but informative look at the producer's vision for the film.
• Theatrical Trailer: Provides a nostalgic peek at the film’s original marketing.

Roger Corman's 1966 film, "Queen of Blood," offers a compelling case study in budget filmmaking, skillfully melding Russian film footage with new American scenes to craft a unique sci-fi narrative. Directed by Curtis Harrington, the movie unfolds in an envisioned 1990 future where humanity is on the cusp of interstellar exploration. Featuring a stellar cast, including John Saxon, Judi Meredith, Dennis Hopper, and Robert Boon, the plot centers on astronauts sent to Mars to investigate a distress call from a crashed alien spacecraft. They discover a surviving female alien whose alarming appetite for human blood adds a horror twist to their exploratory mission.

"Queen of Blood" thrives on creative frugality and visual inventiveness, despite its modest budget. Harrington’s editing integrates the Russian and American footage effectively, though the seams occasionally show, such as Cyrillic characters visible on "American" spacecraft. The narrative juggles genres, delivering suspenseful, if not always seamless, moments that are augmented by strong performances from the cast. Saxon and Hopper's dedication to their roles infuses the film with a zest that compensates for its production limitations and lends it an enduring cult appeal.

The movie’s legacy is bolstered by its entertaining yet ambitious approach to storytelling within fiscal constraints. While decidedly a B-movie, "Queen of Blood" should not be dismissed; it captures the essence of 1960s American sci-fi cinema. It stands as a testament to Corman’s knack for reinvention and ingenuity, ensuring that audiences are treated to an engaging mixture of action, suspense, and quirky charm. Whether it's experienced for nostalgia or discovered anew, the film guarantees an enjoyable viewing experience that is best shared with friends and possibly a sense of humor about its era-specific eccentricities.

Kino Lorber’s Blu-ray release of "Queen of Blood" is a commendable effort that deftly bridges the gap between American B-movie sensibilities and impressive Russian special effects. While the film itself isn't the most energetic or dynamic of its genre, it manages to captivate with its distinctive visual style and emotive performances. The Blu-ray boasts a very good video presentation that does justice to the film’s unique aesthetics, providing a crisp and clear image that enhances the viewing experience. The audio presentation, while decent, has some minor issues but does not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment.

The supplementary material may be limited, yet the included extras are invaluable for enthusiasts. Notable among these are "The Russians are Coming: Robert Skotak on Queen of Blood" interview, an insightful conversation with Roger Corman, and the original double bill theatrical trailer. The absence of the original Russian films for comparative purposes is somewhat disappointing, but the high-quality presentation of "Queen of Blood" on Blu-ray compensates for it. These bonuses offer a deeper understanding of the film's production and cultural impact, making it worth the attention of genre aficionados.

In conclusion, "Queen of Blood" may not stand as the pinnacle of Roger Corman’s extensive catalog, yet it encapsulates the charm and inventiveness that define his works. The amalgamation of American and Russian cinematic elements results in a memorable foray into horror and science fiction. Despite its modest selection of extras and minor audio issues, this Blu-ray release is a worthy addition to any B-movie or Roger Corman collection. For fans of the genre, this release is highly recommended as it offers an intriguing blend of film history and entertaining content.