Sergio Martino's giallo has come to Blu-ray
Released by: Arrow Video
Release Date: October 27, 2015 (US) / October 19, 2015 (UK)
Production Year: 1972
Region Code: A & B / 1 & 2 (DVD)
Running Time: 1:36:43
Audio: Italian DTS-HD MA Mono / English DTS-HD MA Mono
Video: 1080p (1.85:1 Aspect Ratio)
Subtitles: English
THE FILM [ 3.5 / 5 ]:
*This Blu-ray is part of the 2-film Blu-ray/DVD set "Edgar Allan Poe's Black Cats: Two Adaptations By Sergio Martino & Lucio Fulci."
Edgar Allan Poe’s celebrated story The Black Cat has provided the inspiration for numerous films over the years. But few adaptations are as stylish as those offered up by the twin Italian titans of terror, Sergio Martino and Lucio Fulci.In Martino’s classic giallo, "Your Vice is a Locked Room and Only I Have the Key," teacher Oliviero (Luigi Pistilli, A Bay of Blood) finds himself under suspicion for murder when one of his students – and mistress – is found brutally murdered. As more bodies start to pile up, the arrival of Oliviero’s attractive niece (Edwige Fenech, "Five Dolls for an August Moon," "All the Colours of the Dark") brings with it complications of its own.
"Your Vice is a Locked Room and Only I Have the Key" is an interesting film with a strange and long title, which happens to come from an earlier Martino giallo, "The Strange Vice of Mrs. Wardh." That film too, featured the always lovely Edwige Fenech. In the case of "Your Vice..." you may find yourself wondering, who exactly is killing who? Looks can be deceiving and things aren't always as they appear. The characters don't know who to trust and with good reason.
AUDIO - [ 4.5 / 5 ]:
"Your Vice is a Locked Room and Only I Have the Key" comes with two audio options in the form of Italian and English DTS-HD Master Audio Mono tracks. English subtitles are also included. Just like the other film in the set, "The Black Cat," from the Main Menu you are asked which version of the film you would like to view, English or Italian. The audio sounded great. The dialogue, sound effects and Bruno Nicolai's score were balanced nicely throughout the film. For the English language version, the dialogue was clear and easy to understand. The Italian language version sounded excellent as well.
VIDEO - [ 4.5 / 5 ]:
"Your Vice is a Locked Room and Only I Have the Key" comes to Blu-ray thanks to Arrow Video via a brand new 2K restoration from the films original negative. The film looks beautiful. I have been anxiously waiting to see how the film looks in high definition and Arrow Video did not disappoint. The colors look strong and realistic in appearance. Skin tones look natural and the contrast levels look great. Black levels look spot on as well. There is a thin layer of film grain present throughout and a few times it does become heavier in darker scenes, but it is nothing distracting and most people expect that. Please note the screenshots used in the review were not taken directly from the Blu-ray disc.
SPECIAL FEATURES - [ 4.5 / 5 ]:
Through the Keyhole: An Interview with Sergio Martino (34:42) - A fascinating interview in which Mr. Martino talks fondly of cast members Edwige Fenech, Anita Strindberg and Luigi Pistilli whose life ended tragically. Sergio Martino talks about the music used in the film, several of his other movies and a big scene that takes place toward the end of the film. I believe this was the first time I have seen an interview with Mr. Martino, so this was a real treat and a joy to watch. (with English subtitles)
Unveiling the Vice (23:07) - This is a making-of restrospective that features interviews with Sergio Martino, star Edwige Fenech and screenwriter Ernesto Gastaldi. Sergio Martino talks about some of his films including "Torso" and "Your Vice..." as well as shooting locations. Edwige Fenech recalls being served egg and onion sandwiches and omelettes while filming. She also talks about a conversation with Quentin Tarantino on her film roles. Ernesto Gastaldi discusses his writing the screenplay and importance of structure in writing and sometimes feeling the need to outdo ones self when writing many films. (with English subtitles)
Dolls of Flesh and Blood (29:04 ) - Michael Mackenzie discusses Sergio Martino's contributions to the giallo genre. A spoiler warning is given as some key plot points are discussed for several Sergio Martino films. This is a comprehensive featurette and very well done.
The Strange Vices of Ms. Fenech (29:42) - Justin Harries discusses the career of Edwige Fenech. A must watch for fans of, in my opinion, the most beautiful woman to appear on film in the horror genre. Mr. Harries also talks about the giallo genre and its origins.
Eli Roth on Your Vice (9:17) - Eli Roth talks about "Your Vice.." and briefly touches on giallo and early POV style slasher films.
Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly-commissioned artwork by Matthew Griffin.
IN CONCLUSION:
Arrow Video does a terrific job once again. It's very satisfying watching films you enjoy on Blu-ray and better yet when they are of high quality. The audio and video presentation are great and there are over two hours of interviews included as well. I highly recommend the "Black Cats" set.
As mentioned earlier, this Blu-ray is part of the 2-film (4-disc) Blu-ray/DVD set "Edgar Allan Poe's Black Cats: Two Adaptations By Sergio Martino & Lucio Fulci." The other film in the set is Lucio Fulci's "The Black Cat" which we reviewed here. That set also includes an 80 page perfect-bound book featuring new writing on the films, Poe's original story and more, illustrated with archive stills and posters.
OVERALL: [ 4 / 5 ]