Re-Animator Blu-ray Review

Presented in an aspect ratio of 1.78:1 and encoded with MPEG-4 AVC, Re-Animator arrives on Blu-ray courtesy of Umbrella Entertainment with a 1080p transfer. This two-disc set includes the Unrated Version and the Integral Cut, each on a separate single-layer disc. Both versions stem from TLEFilms FRPS's stunning 4K restoration conducted in Germany. The restoration significantly elevates the visual experience; density levels are superb, and darker scenes that previously appeared flat now exhibit fantastic organic nuances, showing a marked improvement in shadow and highlight details.

Despite these enhancements, there is room for technical optimization. The decision to encode both versions on single-layer discs may result in slight compression artifacts, particularly noticeable on screens larger than 70 inches. Utilization of dual-layer discs with specific encoding improvements could have minimized such anomalies. Nevertheless, color reproduction has seen massive improvements, offering entirely new nuances across various segments. There are no signs of detrimental digital manipulations, ensuring image stability remains consistently excellent throughout.

(Note: This is a Region-B locked Blu-ray release, requiring a native Region-B or Region-Free player for access).

The Blu-ray release of "Re-Animator" offers an English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track for both versions of the film, with the Unrated Version also featuring optional English SDH subtitles. The audio basics such as depth, clarity, and overall stability are commendable, resulting in a clean and immersive auditory experience devoid of pops, cracks, audio dropouts, or digital distortions.

While the absence of mono and stereo soundtrack options might be a missed opportunity for purists, the 5.1 track is far from disappointing. Centered dialogue can sometimes lack definition, with other elements of the soundtrack spaced out without significant creativity. However, the soundscape is effectively widened, ensuring that all audio comes through clearly. Despite its imperfections, this audio presentation enhances the viewing experience significantly through its crisp execution and reliability.

The Blu-ray edition of "Re-Animator" offers an extensive and insightful array of extras that significantly enhance the viewing experience by delving into the film's production and legacy. Two audio commentaries stand out: the first by director Stuart Gordon, providing an in-depth exploration of the film's stylistic and production challenges; the second, a more relaxed and amusing trip down memory lane with producer Brian Yuzna and key cast members. Noteworthy is the comprehensive documentary "Re-Animator Resurrectus," featuring archival interviews that highlight the unique sense of humor and cult status of the film. Additionally, several interviews with significant contributors like composer Richard Band, screenwriter Dennis Paoli, and editor Tony Timpone provide valuable context and behind-the-scenes insights. The extras are rounded out with extended scenes, a deleted scene, the theatrical trailer, and vintage TV spots.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary One: Specific information about different phases of production and stylistic choices.
• Audio Commentary Two: Lighthearted recollections and key sequence observations by cast and producer.
• Re-Animator Resurrectus Doc: Detailed look at production history with archival interviews.
• Extended Scenes: Collection of restored extended scenes.
• Deleted Scene: Restored deleted scene.
• Theatrical Trailer: Vintage theatrical trailer.
• TV Spots: Vintage TV spots.
• Music Analysis by Composer Richard Band: Discussion on orchestration and harmonic structures.
• Interview with Tony Timpone: Recollections on theatrical experience and film’s stylistic identity.
• Interview with Richard Band: Composer's insights on orchestration and recording sessions.
• Interview with Dennis Paoli: Discussion on script development and production evolution.
• Interview with Stuart Gordon and Brian Yuzna: Insights on the film's conception, improvements, and early screenings.

Stuart Gordon's "Re-Animator" (1985) is a revered entry in the horror genre, celebrated for its outstanding practical splatter effects and compelling performances by Barbara Crampton and Jeffrey Combs. Adapted from H.P. Lovecraft's work, the film has become a quintessential piece of horror cinema, appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers alike. This Blu-ray edition by Umbrella Entertainment includes an extensive array of supplemental features, such as multiple extended and deleted scenes, archival audio commentaries, and featurettes on the making of the film, providing a comprehensive package for enthusiasts.

The film continues to captivate audiences with its inventive take on reanimation and zombies, showcasing an exceptional combination of gore and storytelling. This release maintains high-quality English audio with optional English SDH subtitles and is Region B locked. Given its prior Blu-ray releases by Image Entertainment in the U.S. and Arrow Video in the U.K., this new edition holds up well in maintaining the audiovisual integrity and providing enriched content to dive deeper into the film’s legacy. This Blu-ray is an essential edition for any collector or horror aficionado who appreciates the blend of gothic horror and dark comedy that "Re-Animator" so expertly delivers.

Umbrella Entertainment has once again delivered a stellar Blu-ray release with their two-disc set of "Re-Animator," a cult classic expertly blending horror, comedy, and drama. Sourced from a meticulous 4K restoration by TLEFilms FRPS in Germany, this edition offers a visually enhanced experience that is sure to captivate fans. The Blu-ray's image quality is superb, showcasing significantly improved detail and color balance. However, it is worth noting that minor issues with the encoding could have been refined further. Despite this, the overall presentation remains impressively faithful to the film's original aesthetic.

This release also includes an engaging array of special features, though it's noteworthy that no edition of "Re-Animator" has provided a truly exhaustive collection of extras. Still, Umbrella Entertainment's package stands out with its gorgeous artwork and well-curated supplemental materials, making it a compelling addition for both hardcore enthusiasts and newer audiences. The extras included provide ample insight and entertainment, enhancing the viewing experience without overshadowing the main feature.

In conclusion, Umbrella Entertainment's dedication to bringing cult and classic films to Blu-ray in Australia is commendable. Their new "Re-Animator" set, despite minor imperfections in encoding, is a robust offering that's certainly worth owning. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.