Pastel de sangre Blu-ray Review

Severin Films has presented "Cake of Blood" on Blu-ray with a notable AVC encoded 1080p transfer in a 2.35:1 aspect ratio. This release marks the film's worldwide Blu-ray premiere, freshly restored and uncut. Scanned directly from the original camera negative, the process was done in 2K, though conflicting reports also hint at a possible 4K scan, adding intrigue to its technical origins. Regardless, the outcome is a strong reflection of the movie’s Techniscope cinematography using Eastmancolor stock. The video presentation is enriched by consistently impressive saturation and finely detailed imagery.

The film, once predominantly confined to Spain since its 1971 release, is reintroduced with exceptional visual clarity, maintaining strong grain and cinematic texture with unwavering black levels. This attention to detail is evident throughout, particularly in scenes showcasing the exquisite costume fabric and vibrantly saturated color palette. Despite its inherent misty aesthetic, designed for atmospheric purposes, the film nevertheless retains remarkable detail resolution.

The overall presentation represents the best moments of Danza Macabra Volume Three, offering robust sharpness and depth, especially within exterior scenes. Occasionally, a grittier celluloid texture emerges, primarily in the concluding segments, but this does not detract from the overwhelmingly positive visual experience. The elements show minimal aging or deterioration, making "Cake of Blood" not only an artifact of cinematic history but an exemplar of Blu-ray restoration quality.

The audio presentation of "Pastel de sangre" on Blu-ray is delivered through a pristine DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Mono track in the original Spanish language. The soundscape offers a rich atmospheric experience, where dialogue is cleanly articulated even if not the primary narrative force due to the dreamlike vignettes. Emphasizing ambient environmental sounds and an eerily captivating score, the audio track creates a convincing and immersive experience. Despite its mono format and the era's budgetary constraints, the subtleties in sound dynamics and fidelity are commendably preserved, with optional English subtitles provided for clarity.

This auditory experience is particularly notable for its well-defined upper frequency response and adept incorporation of sound effects that amplify the film's haunting atmosphere. A standout example is observed in the segment "Tarot," where nuanced sound cues like an off-screen baby's cry contribute to an unsettling ambiance. While the low frequencies may lack robust impact, the overall audio quality impressively underscores the film's engaging eeriness, immersing viewers in its mysterious world.

For those valuing authenticity in auditory presentations, "Pastel de sangre" provides a satisfying experience through its well-maintained mono 2.0 DTS-HD MA track, offering a seamless blend of speech clarity and atmospheric depth, which is particularly appreciable given its production background from the early 1970s. The option of English subtitles ensures non-native speakers can fully appreciate the nuanced storytelling conveyed through sound.

The Blu-ray extras for "Pastel de sangre" are a comprehensive and insightful addition to the film's home release, catering well to fans and film enthusiasts alike. The audio commentary, featuring Rod Barnett and Dr. Adrian Smith, offers a deep dive into the film's arthouse qualities and anthology structure, providing both informative and engaging content for listeners. The featurettes, presented in high definition and with English subtitles, provide valuable perspectives from significant contributors to the film's creation. Interviews with actress Marisa Paredes and co-director Jaime Chávarri explore creative insights and personal experiences, while actor José Lifante shares his unique on-set stories. Ángel Sala's appreciation adds a professional critique that situates the film within broader cinematic contexts—ideal for understanding its impact and legacy.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Discusses the film's arthouse qualities and anthology structure.
• My Generation: Interview with actress Marisa Paredes.
• I Just Wanted to Have Fun: Interview with co-director Jaime Chávarri.
• To Whoever Wants to Watch: Interview with actor José Lifante.
• An Arthouse UFO: Appreciation by Ángel Sala, Head of Programming at the Sitges Film Festival.

"Pastel de Sangre" (Cake of Blood), featured in Severin Films’ Danza Macabra Volume Three, stands as a distinct entry in the Spanish Gothic anthology, offering an intriguing blend of commercial accessibility and arthouse flair. This anthology, produced during the waning days of Francoist Spain, explores diverse narratives set across various historical backdrops. The film unfolds through four stylistically unique shorts crafted by a quartet of Spanish filmmakers, known more for their work beyond the horror genre.

The anthology opens with José María Vallés’ "Tarot," a haunting journey akin to Bergman's "The Seventh Seal," set against a plague-stricken medieval landscape. This dreamlike narrative introduces a knight whose esoteric encounter with a mysterious child blurs reality, exemplifying an existential critique. Following this, Emilio Martínez-Lázaro’s "Victor Frankenstein" reimagines Shelley’s iconic tale. Here, the creature deviates from its gruesome origins, becoming a reflection of those around it, posing intriguing questions on identity and obedience as it navigates a doomed familial estate.

Francesc Bellmunt’s "Terror Among Christians" delves into horror with its engaging yet enigmatic portrayal of Christian fugitives amidst Nero’s Rome, weaving vampires and persecution into an allegorical tapestry. This segment stands out for its powerful visual motifs that overshadow its narrative coherence. Concluding the anthology is Jaime Chávarri’s "The Dance," where supernatural elements intertwine with modern-day psychological conflict, offering a Twilight Zone-esque exploration of twisted human dynamics that captivates viewers with its nuanced performances.

"Pastel de Sangre" can be best seen as an experience rather than straightforward storytelling. The film skillfully marries Gothic aesthetics with cultural introspection, providing an audacious cinematic exploration that may challenge conventional expectations of Severin’s audience, prioritizing thematic depth and historical commentary over traditional horror escapades.

The Blu-ray release of "Pastel de Sangre," a daring Spanish genre anthology, impressively merges frights and fantasy in a series of surreal segments crafted by four rebellious filmmakers during the Franco regime. This release offers a strikingly dreamlike experience, although lacking the traditional interconnected storyline or wraparound material typical of Amicus-inspired anthologies. The film excels in cultivating an otherworldly atmosphere that immerses viewers in an enigmatic journey.

Technically, the Blu-ray edition shines with strong audiovisual quality that enhances its vivid storytelling. Severin Films brings this anthology to life with generally solid transfers, crisp visuals, and an engaging soundscape that does justice to its abstract narrative and thematic depth. The supplemental materials provided by Severin are a highlight, offering insightful content that enriches the understanding of the film's unique context and creative framework.

In conclusion, "Pastel de Sangre" is a fascinating exploration of genre boundaries and an audacious cinematic expression under challenging historical circumstances. While it may challenge traditional narrative expectations, those willing to embrace its nonlinear and obscure ambitions will find themselves rewarded with a captivating anthology. Recommended for enthusiasts of experimental cinema and those seeking a glimpse into the inventive spirit of Spanish filmmakers of the era.