The Mutilator (1984) - Blu-ray Review - Arrow Video

Arrow Video Gives Fans of 80's Slashers Something to Cheer About With Their Top-Notch Quality and Extras Packed Blu-ray of 'The Mutilator'

Released by: Arrow Video
Release Date: February 15, 2016 (UK) / February 16, 2016 (US)
Production Year: 1984
Region Code: ALL
Running Time: 1:26:20
Audio: English LPCM Mono
Video: 1080p (1.85:1 Aspect Ratio)
Subtitles: English SDH

THE FILM - [ 3.5 / 5 ]:


Although the slasher film was in decline by the mid-1980's, there were still some grisly delights to be had… and they don’t come much grislier than writer-director Buddy Cooper’s sickening stalk-and-slash classic "The Mutilator!"

When Ed receives a message from his father asking him to go and lock up the family’s beach condo for the winter, it seems like the perfect excuse for an alcohol-fuelled few days away with his friends. After all, his dad has forgiven him for accidentally blowing mom away with a shotgun several years ago… hasn’t he? But no sooner are the teens on the island than they find themselves stalked by a figure with an axe (and a hook, and an onboard motor) to grind…

Originally entitled "Fall Break" (watch out for the incongruous theme song of the same name!), "The Mutilator" has earned a reputation among horror fans as one of the ‘holy grails’ of 80's splatter mayhem due to its highly inventive (and not to say, decidedly gruesome) kill sequences, courtesy of FX wizard Mark Shostrom ("Videodrome," "Evil Dead II"). Finally making its long-awaited bow in High-Definition, "The Mutilator" has returned to terrorize a whole new generation of horror fans!

Fans of "The Mutilator" (myself included) have been waiting a long time to see the film receive a proper release that also had improved picture quality. For years it was said that the original elements were lost and basically our hope was lost along with it. When word came that Arrow Video wanted to bring the film out on to Blu-ray it was a bit of a head-scratcher since the elements were lost right? Well, let's get to the point and good news. It turns out that the Library of Congress (yes, you read that correctly) had in their possession, a pristine uncut 35mm print of the film. So after several delays, which of course angered some fans, news broke that a date for the Blu-ray and DVD combo pack was set and we would finally get to see the fruits of their labor. I can easily and honestly say you won't be disappointed. At least you shouldn't be. As fans of the film, we have gone from having no glimmer of hope to being able to own the absolute definitive release of "The Mutilator" and while it may not be the most anticipated or celebrated release of 2016, it should at least be near the top of many "Best of" lists.

"The Mutilator" features some likable characters (Bill Hitchcock as Ralph being my favorite) and some very good practical gore effects. The film is part of my favorite horror sub-genre as well as my favorite era, 80's slashers. I can watch them numerous times and they just never get old. Any time one of them comes to high definition it is very exciting to see how good the film looks. Sure, the sound and extras are great to have as well but that picture quality is king because we want to see how the death scenes look now. With 80's slashers, the main selling point was either the killer or the kills. So if the film(s) didn't have an iconic killer, we at least wanted to see some great looking and entertaining death scenes. "The Mutilator" may not have an iconic killer but it does have some good death scenes and with Arrow Video's amazing looking 2k restoration of the uncut version of the film, those scenes look better than ever before.

"The Mutilator" has one of my favorite theme songs in horror films. Sure it might be a bit too upbeat for most typical horror films, but the tune is catchy and lighthearted. To me it sort of sets the mood for the kids at the start of the film. They're off to have a productive weekend yet still have some fun at the same time. It's too bad that someone has some diabolical plans in store for them. Their few days of fun and good times at the beach is about to become a terrifying nightmare. 
 

AUDIO - [ 4.5 / 5 ]:

The only audio option available on this release is an English LPCM Mono track. The mono track sounds terrific. Dialogue was clear. The score and most notably the theme song sounded great. Whether it's an axe, machete or other weapon, the sound effects all seemed to be spot on while ripping or rending the flesh of the victims. I didn't hear any problems with the audio. English SDH subtitles are also included.
 

VIDEO - [ 4.5 / 5 ]:

"The Mutilator" slashes its way on to Blu-ray thanks to a new 2k restoration by Arrow Video. The film is presented in 1080p with a 1.85 Aspect Ratio. I talked about the effort Arrow Video put in to securing the best source available for this Blu-ray release earlier in this review. The film looks amazing compared to any previous home video release of the film. The colors in the film look strong and robust for the most part. There are some scenes in the film where they look a little flat or faded but that it probably the way the film looked when it was filmed. Surprising there is a fair amount of detail visible in the film with close-ups looking even better. There is a fair amount of grain present and as you might expect, it is heavier in darker scenes which makes up most of the later portion of the film. Not only is it nice to be able to see the film with better clarity, it is great being able to get a better look at the gore during the death scenes. With this being the uncut version of the film, it makes this Blu-ray even more enjoyable. A few white specks pop up from time to time but it is never distracting. I did not notice any issues with the video portion of the Blu-ray.

SPECIAL FEATURES - [ 5 / 5 ]:

Play with Introduction (1:08) - When you play the film there is an option to play with film with an introduction by director Buddy Cooper and make-up artist Ed Ferrell.


Audio Commentary with Cast and Crew - This commentary is moderated by Ewan Cant of Arrow Video and includes director Buddy Cooper, co-director John Douglass, actor Matt Mitler and make-up effects artist Ed Ferrell. The participants did a fairly good job of sharing personal anecdotes from the production of the film. They also discuss how various cast members got along, special effects for death scenes and a number of other subjects. There are some fun and jokingly discussed matters like why certain characters were surely going to die due to them being promiscuous.   

Audio Commentary with Buddy Cooper and Ruth Martinez - This commentary is also moderated by Ewan Cant of Arrow Video and features director Buddy Cooper and actress Ruth Martinez Tutterow. The participants for this commentary aren't as talkative and Ewan Cant poses more questions this time around to keep the conversation going. However, it is still worth listening to since some different information from the other commentary is shared. Plus it was nice to hear Miss Tutterow share some stories from the set. Mr. Cooper talks a bit more about the theme song for the film and other topics such as talking with New Line about the film. 

Fall Breakers (1:15:01) - A feature-length documentary on the making of "The Mutilator" featuring interviews with writer-director-producer Buddy Cooper, co-director John Douglass, stars Matt Mitler, Ruth Martinez Tutterow and other key cast and crew members. All interviews were conducted at the Oceanana Motel in Atlantic Beach, North Caroline during June-August 2015. This documentary does repeat a little information from the commentary tracks but there is much more to take in with this in-depth feature. It was nice to hear from the actors in the film as well as hearing that several cast and crew members would be game for a sequel. 

Mutilator Memories (15:57) - Special make-up effects artist Mark Shostrom ("Evil Dead II," "To All A Goodnight") looks back at one of his earliest film projects in this brand new interview, filmed in LA in October 2015. He talks about the original plan of how to dispose of the killer, the infamous "gaff hook" scene and more. 

Tunes for the Dunes (8:13) - Composer Michael Minard on the creation of the film's unique score. Mr. Minard discusses the origin of the film's theme song and how it ended up having a different tempo than Buddy Cooper had wanted. 

Screen Tests (13:03) A couple humorous and serious screen tests with Matt Mitler, Ruth Martinez Tutterow, Ben Moore and more.

Opening Scene Storyboards (4:27)

Trailers & TV Spots - Five trailers and TV spots and two radio spots are included.

Alternate Opening Titles (4:32) - Here we get to see "The Mutilator" title card for the film.

Music (3:30 each) - There are two options given for the "Fall Break" song, with and without lyrics.

Gallery (8:49) - Behind the scenes photos from the film are accompanied by the theme song.

Easter Egg #1 (3:23) - I came across this by highlighting Music in Special Features and then pressing the Right Arrow on my remote. Buddy Cooper and Ed Ferrell briefly talk about their experience attending a film premiere and an after-party at Studio 54.

Easter Egg #2 (4:16) - I found this by highlighting Gallery in Special Features and then pressing the Right Arrow on my remote. Ruth Martinez Tutterlow shows us her original shooting script for the film. She also reads from the script and shares some notes from cast and crew members.

Reversible sleeve featuring two versions of original artwork.

Fully-illustrated collector's booklet featuring new writing on the film alongside archive articles from Fangoria magazine.
 

IN CONCLUSION:

Arrow Video has given fans of "The Mutilator" the definitive home video release of the film in the form of this uncut, 2k restored Blu-ray release of the film. It has never looked better and the disc is packed with a plethora of extras. I may be a little biased since I am a fan of the film, but if you are a slasher fan, I cannot recommend this Blu-ray and DVD combo pack from Arrow Video enough. The film has been rescued from oblivion and this release is simply incredible. Thanks to Arrow Video for putting it all together and MVD Entertainment Group for U.S. distribution. 

OVERALL RATING - [ 4.5 / 5 ]

 

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Blood Rage (1987) - Blu-ray Review - Arrow Video

Watching Arrow Video's Blu-ray of 'Blood Rage' is like truly seeing the film for the first time.

Released by: Arrow Video
Release Date: November 24, 2015 (US) / November 23, 2015 (UK)
Production Year: 1987
Region Code: ALL 
Running Time: 1:22:19 (Disc 1 feature)
Audio: English LPCM 2.0 Stereo
Video: 1080p (1.85:1 Aspect Ratio) / NTSC (DVD)
Subtitles: English SDH


THE FILM: [ 3.5 / 5 ]

What do you get if you combine Thanksgiving, American TV star Louise Lasser (Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman), killer 80's synths and some of the most gruesome special effects in all of slasher history courtesy of Ed (Terminator 2) French. Why, it’s "Blood Rage" of course!

Twins Todd and Terry seem like sweet boys that is, until one of them takes an axe to face of a fellow patron at the local drive-in. Todd is blamed for the bloody crime and institutionalized, whilst twin brother Terry goes free. Ten years later and, as the family gathers around the table for a Thanksgiving meal, the news comes in that Todd has escaped. But has the real killer in fact been in their midst all along? One thing’s for sure, there will be plenty of blood and rage!

Shot in 1983 but not released until 1987, "Blood Rage" (re-cut and shown in theaters as "Nightmare at Shadow Woods") is a gloriously gruesome slice of 80's slasher heaven now lovingly restored (in 3 versions no less) from original vault elements for its first ever official home video release.

For me "Blood Rage" was always a bit of a below average slasher. It was okay but not a film I enjoyed all that much. However, being able to see more of what is happening in the film has given me a renewed interest and fondness for "Blood Rage." 

As far as stand out actors in the film, I think that Mark Soper did a good job playing twins Todd and Terry. He gave a convincing performance making you believe you were watching two different actors. Louise Lasser made you feel for her as she goes from being happy not long after the ten years later part of the film to slowly losing her mind throughout the film after she receives some disturbing news. 

The film does not include to me, memorable characters but rather disposable characters which is typical with many slashers and I'm not really complaining. There are some memorable lines with a couple variations of "it's not cranberry sauce" which I find pretty entertaining. Make-up effects artist Ed French does a great job with the practical effects in "Blood Rage."  


NOTE: The Audio and Video scores and comments below are in reference to the uncut version of the film from Blu-ray Disc One.

AUDIO: [ 4.5 / 5 ]

"Blood Rage" has an English LPCM 2.0 Stereo audio track. The sound quality is excellent overall. The dialogue is clean and crisp. The sound effects are sharp and spot on. The great synth score by Richard Einhorn sounds very lively. The volume level was consistent throughout the film. I did not notice any issues with the audio such as hissing, pops or dropouts. All three versions of the film include optional English SDH subtitles.

VIDEO: [ 4.5 / 5 ]

"Blood Rage" slashes its way on to Blu-ray for the first time thanks to Arrow Video. All three versions of the film are presented in 1080p with a 1.85:1 Aspect Ratio thanks to a brand new 2k restoration from the original camera negative. I did not have any idea what the film looked like on the Blu-ray from Arrow Video prior to watching it today. I am only used to shoddy versions that you may find on Youtube and such. What a delightful surprise this turned out to be. The restoration that Arrow has done has breathed new life in to a once run of the mill slasher. The film itself looks amazing. It is so nice to be able to clearly see the handiwork of Ed French in the terrific death scenes. The colors are bold and look appropriate without being over-saturated. Skin tones look natural and contrast levels look fine. Film grain looks very good throughout and is heavier in some of the darker scenes although it was never to the point of being distracting or detrimental to the experience of watching the film. There is a welcomed amount of detail present in the film and in close up shots, even more fine detail to be found. I really would not have imagined that "Blood Rage" could look this good. If you want a glimpse of how good the film looks now, take a peek at the video at the bottom of the review. One minor glitch in the film and it appears in all three versions is a tiny greenish orb that appears in the upper left area of the screen which you can see around the 59:08 mark in the film when Terry and Artie arrive on the wooden foot bridge. Something funny is shortly after that at approximately 59:49 just behind Terry's back, someone appears to walk into the frame and then backs away when they realize they shouldn't be there. 


SPECIAL FEATURES: [ 5 / 5 ]

Blu-ray Disc One

Audio Commentary - This commentary track is moderated by Ewan Cant from Arrow Video and features John Grissmer, the director of "Blood Rage" and John Dalley, a co-owner of the film. Mr. Cant makes a solid effort to keep the conversation going but unfortunately John Grissmer often gives a brief response which results in a number of quiet lulls in the conversation. Mr. Grissmer does provide some interesting anecdotes regarding the film though concerning the cast and crew. John Dalley doesn't really contribute much to the conversation until just after the 57 minute mark when Ewan Cant asks him about the unauthorized release of the film and subsequent legal matter involving a few websites such as Amazon and Netflix. If you are a fan of the film, you may like this commentary but I don't imagine a casual viewer finding it all that interesting. Even though I didn't find it to be particularly good, I am thankful for its inclusion as I always enjoy hearing from the film makers and/or cast.

Double Jeopardy - An interview with Mark Soper (11:01) -  Mr. Soper talks about how he got his start in acting and also discusses his roles in the film including having a cheat sheet of each characters mannerisms because he would have to quickly change roles.  

Jeez, Louise! - An interview with Louise Lasser (10:21) - Miss Lasser discusses her early acting career including a few Woody Allen films and the tv series "Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman." She too talks about her role in the film as well as the mental state of her character.  

Both Sides of the Camera - An interview with producer/actress Marianne Kanter (9:58) - She talks about the films production and reveals that she appears in the film due to the actress that was originally hired for the part did not show up for work. Miss Kanter also briefly mentions being a producer. She also discusses working with Louise Lasser and how director John Grissmer had at one point quit the film but later came back when Miss Kanter contacted him.  

Man Behind the Mayhem - An interview with special make-up effects creator Ed French (12:48) - Mr. French talks about how after reading an issue of Fangoria and seeing the effects from professionals such as Dick Smith, he became interested in the field and wanted to get in to the make-up effects business. Ed French discusses a few of the effects used in "Blood Rage." He briefly mentions his acting career and how after seeing the dailies for "Blood Rage," he decided that would be his last cameo in a film he was working on. Mr. French touches base on the multiple titles used for the film, cast members Louise Lasser and Mark Soper as well as other films and tv shows he has worked on in his illustrious career.

Three Minutes with Ted - An interview with actor Ted Raimi (3:18) - Ted shares a story about what led to him moving to New York and as he was about to give up on acting and move home, he got the part in "Blood Rage."

Return to Shadow Woods (5:36) - In this featurette, film historian Ed Tucker gives us a look at some of the original shooting locations used for the film in Jacksonville, Florida. Sadly, the drive-in theater used in the opening of the film has since been replaced with a Walmart. 

VHS Opening Titles (5:01) -  We you get to see part of the opening scene with the "Blood Rage" title card. 

Behind the Scenes Gallery (4:31) - A collection of stills from the production.



Blu-ray Disc Two [Limited Edition Exclusive]

Nightmare at Shadow Woods (1:19:27) - The following appears before playing this version of the film. "Blood Rage was re-edited and released theatrically in 1987 as Nightmare as Shadow Woods. Our presentation of this cut is comprised of the newly restored Blood Rage footage combined with unique footage transferred from the best available 35mm print element. Because if the significant variations in quality between the two elements used, the differences remain noticeable." 

Wow. It is easy to see how different this version will be by how gutted the opening scene is in terms of gore. Talk about severely edited. One swing of the axe and the camera cuts away to the woman running away from the car. We do get a glimpse of the mans face after the fact when the murder has been discovered. Next the film skips ahead and we have grown up Terry at the pool with his friends and meet the neighbor with the baby, Julie. Some gore still remains in some of the death scenes but much of it has been removed and there are some sudden cuts to the next scene that makes the film feel very clumsily edited and rather cheap. The audio and video quality was great on this version. The lower quality footage is easy to spot in some cases but it was nowhere near as jarring as some of the edited scenes that removed the violence. A nice addition to this terrific limited edition release by Arrow Video but I doubt I will revisit this version of the film.


Composite Cut (1:25:08) -  Before being able to play this version of the film, this appears on the menu screen. "An alternate composite cut of the feature combing footage from both the uncut and theatrical versions." 

I definitely preferred this version over "Nightmare at Shadow Woods" but I think I would stick to the uncut version on disc one. I really didn't find this or the uncut version to feel all too different. Then again I have spent my Thanksgiving watching "Blood Rage" and its special features all day. So this was my fourth time watching the film today, all three versions once plus disc one version with the commentary track. The added scenes in this version are nice to have but I honestly don't miss them in the uncut version since it's a slightly "leaner' beast of a slasher. 


Outtakes (26:39) - Before the outtakes play this disclaimer appears, "The following outtakes are presented mute as per the source material." We see a couple outtakes that involve Maddy arriving at The Craig Institute, both from her prospective as well as a patient outside the building. Next there are a few scenes involving a few characters in and around the swimming pool including Terry. We then see a couple takes at the tennis court followed by a several shots involving Terry and the couple having sex on the diving board of the pool as seen in the film. Next is a few shots of Terry and Karen followed by shots involving the bodies of the couple from the pool. 


Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Marc Schoenbach.

Fully-illustrated collectors booklet featuring new writing on the film by Joseph A. Ziemba, author of BLEEDING SKULL! A 1980s Trash-Horror Odyssey.



IN CONCLUSION:

This one can easily be summed up as, if you are a fan of the film at all, you need to get this Blu-ray because you will absolutely love it. If you are a slasher fan, you should order yourself the Blu-ray. It is not as widely known as other 80's slashers, but thanks to Arrow Video and their wonderful job on this new HD remaster, you can now see and appreciate the great kill scenes and gore that appears in the film. Along with the superior audio and video quality of the film, you have a total of three versions of the film to watch in the limited edition version, plus a surplus of features. No brainer. Buy the Blu-ray. The 3-Disc Set also includes a DVD of the uncut version of "Blood Rage."


OVERALL RATING: [ 4.5 / 5 ]


 


NOTE: The video below contains spoilers for the film. So watch at your own risk.

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