Blood Delirium Blu-ray Review

The Blu Ray presentation of "Blood Delirium" delivers a nuanced visual experience with its AVC encoded image in a 1.67:1 aspect ratio, derived from a meticulous 2K scan of the original camera negative. This restoration showcases remarkable detail, particularly in close-ups and costuming, while preserving the warmth of the Italian countryside and enhancing primary colors, most notably the distinct blood reds. Interiors manage gothic stability and maintain natural skin tones, while the surroundings provide compelling delineation of shadowy sequences. Although the grain is pronounced, especially in low-light scenes, it retains a film-like quality, lending an authenticity that is refreshingly devoid of intrusive noise or artifacts.

Shot on 35 mm film with spherical lenses, Blood Delirium's new Blu-Ray restoration stands out as a considerable enhancement from its limited theatrical release. Despite occasional minor speckling and fleeting scratches, these imperfections are only noticeable during freeze-frames and do not detract from the overall viewing experience. A single shot exhibits instability, attributed to the original camera setup, but it does not diminish the otherwise consistent quality. The natural color balance remains commendably intact, even if some scenes reveal bronzed skin tones due to specific lighting choices rather than color timing errors.

Ultimately, this version represents a significant visual upgrade for a film that has long evaded home video releases. Its uncut form coupled with retained fine texture quality ensures viewers can appreciate both the aesthetic and atmospheric intensity that "Blood Delirium" offers. The source material is in commendable condition, with only minor wear evident, making this release a noteworthy addition to any collector's library.

The Blu-ray release of "Blood Delirium" features two 2.0 DTS-HD Master Audio tracks, available in both English and Italian. Both mixes exhibit strong clarity, although the English version presents minor sibilance issues, particularly with female dialogue. These sibilants, while noticeable, do not significantly detract from the overall audio experience. The Italian track offers a tamer experience with a slightly rolled-off high end, appealing to those sensitive to high-frequency issues. Supporting audio elements, such as scoring cues, are delivered with authority, effectively enhancing the film’s more intense scenes.

Despite being mostly post-synced, the audio does not always seamlessly blend into the soundstage. This is particularly evident in certain voice recordings - Law’s voice stands out as unnaturally prominent compared to others. English-speaking actors dominate the cast, making the English track a more desirable option for many viewers, even though both tracks provide essential subtitles. The options include optional English SDH subtitles for the English track and standard removable subtitles for the Italian track.

Overall, while both audio tracks demonstrate commendable effort in offering a clean listening experience, the English mix slightly edges out due to tonal preference despite its post-synchronization shortcomings. The blunt but appreciated sound effects work alongside these tracks to complement the film’s narrative intentions, although individual preferences may guide the choice of the preferred language track.

The Extras section of the "Blood Delirium" Blu-ray offers a comprehensive and engaging behind-the-scenes exploration that will appeal to enthusiasts of Italian genre cinema. The commentary by Troy Howarth and Eugenio Ercolani stands out as an insightful dialogue, examining the evolving landscape of Italian films while capturing the chaotic spirit inherent in "Blood Delirium." It highlights directors experimenting with new genres and themes, notably commenting on the unintentional humor akin to "Young Frankenstein." The disc includes interviews with significant cast and crew, each providing valuable personal anecdotes and professional insights. Marco Di Stefano, Corrado Columbo, and Brigitte Christensen share their unique perspectives on working with director Sergio Bergonzelli and co-star John Phillip Law, adding depth to the production's context. These extras collectively construct a vivid narrative of the film's creation, fittingly reflecting its intense production atmosphere.

Extras included in this disc:

• Commentary: Film historians provide in-depth discussion and context.
• Gerard's Delirium: Interview with actor Marco Di Stefano.
• Once Upon a Time in the Italian Eighties: Interview with associate director Corrado Columbo.
• Killer's Muse: Interview with actress Brigitte Christensen.
• Alternate Italian Front and End Titles: Visual content addition.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original promotional material.

Sergio Bergonzelli's "Blood Delirium" is a cinematic foray into gothic horror that defies traditional storytelling and delights in unnerving its audience. Opening with an eerie scene involving a young woman receiving a haunting message from her future self, the film establishes an unpredictable tone that blends supernatural elements with graphic violence. The narrative spirals into madness, indulging in excess and vivid absurdity. Instead of a suspenseful exploration of alternate realities, the film leverages shock value to engage viewers, as Bergonzelli constructs his narrative through surreal events and horror tropes.

The plot centers on Sybille, a pianist caught between the eerie prediction of her future and the obsession-driven artist Saint. Saint, mourning the loss of his muse and wife Christine, becomes fixated on Sybille due to her uncanny resemblance to Christine. This twisted obsession drives him to unsettling lengths, as he attempts to reclaim his artistic fervor by using blood as his medium. Bergonzelli explores the themes of artistic obsession and madness through visceral imagery, including scenes where Saint's assistant, Hermann, engages in grotesque acts involving Christine's corpse.

"Blood Delirium" embodies a chaotic narrative that challenges comprehension and thrives in the unexpected, making sense through its exploration of grotesqueries rather than coherent storytelling. The film relishes its role within the Italian horror tradition, pushing boundaries and reveling in its own bizarre excesses. Though lacking in budgetary grandeur or cinematic polish, Bergonzelli's vivid imagination for horror and sexploitation renders "Blood Delirium" a unique experience that is both confounding and captivating for those willing to embrace its delirious journey.

"Blood Delirium," a bizarre exploration into the world of precognition and poltergeists, demands to be witnessed firsthand to truly appreciate its eccentricity. Directed by Sergio Bergonzelli, the film navigates through a labyrinth of chaos and dark humor, crafting a gothic narrative marked by unnerving obsessions and frenzy. Despite the apparent randomness and occasional horror-inducing moments, the film refrains from harboring a mean spirit, choosing instead to embrace its peculiar absurdity. The movie’s characterization is minimal, and the storyline often fades into the background, yet it manages to maintain an engaging aura through unexpected, lurid escapades brought to life by a compelling cast.

The film is infamous for its VHS-era reputation — a deliriously unclear memory for those who encountered it during the Eighties. Fortunately, Vinegar Syndrome has revitalized "Blood Delirium" with a high-quality Blu-ray transfer sourced from the original film elements, rescuing it from the murky realms of low-resolution video. This edition allows fans to fully appreciate its madness with precision and clarity, revealing a vivid tapestry of Italian genre cinema at its wildest. The high-definition presentation both enhances the visual weirdness and retains the atmospheric charm that delighted and confounded earlier audiences.

Ultimately, "Blood Delirium" is not a film for everyone. It caters specifically to enthusiasts of unconventional, fringe horror cinema who can appreciate a director’s unapologetically bold vision. It is an ideal candidate for an engaging Bad Movie Night, especially for viewers with an affinity for offbeat narratives and quirky cinematic experiences.