DVD & Blu-Ray Buying Guides: The DPP Section 3

This is a DVD & Blu-Ray buying guide to the 80 films listed by the Department of Public Prosecutions (DPP) on their Section 3 list.

The DPP Section 3 list was a collection of video titles that the Department of Public Prosecutions believed they could get a conviction for under section 3 of the Obscene Publication Act. Successful prosecution would mean the confiscation and destruction of the video tapes. In other words, the police were able to grab these titles from the shelves of shops and burn them.

Abducted (1973)

AKA: Abducted; Schoolgirls in Chains; Let's Play Dead
Director: Don Jones

  • Media Blasters do the only official DVD I can find.
Label:Media Blasters
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:
Ratio:1.33:1 | 1.85:1 (anamorphic)
Audio:
Extras:Commentaries | Interview | Trailers | Gallery
Notes:Not the best transfer in the world but better than the previous VHS sourced bootlegs.







Aftermath (1980)

AKA: Aftermath; The Aftermath; Zombie Aftermath
Director: Steve Barkett

  • There is a VCI DVD.
  • The Televista release apparently has worse picture quality than a VHS tape and it's possibly cut (run time of 94 minutes).
Label:VCI Entertainment
Format:DVD
Region:DVD-R
Length:95
Ratio:1.33:1
Audio:English mono
Extras:
Notes:This is a DVD-R disc.




The Black Room (1981)

AKA:
Director: Elly Kenner; Norman Thaddeus Vane

  • There is, apparently, a real kosher DVD release of this but I'm buggered if I can find it. According to the review I read (which helpfully, doesn't list the manufacturer) it still looks like a VHS rip so maybe a bootleg copy is the only way to go...
  • Twistedanger do a bootleg DVD-R.
Label:Twistedanger
Format:DVD-R
Region:0
Length:
Ratio:
Audio:
Extras:
Notes:Bootleg


Bloodlust (1976)

AKA: Bloodlust; Blood Lust; Bloodlust!; Mosquito; Mosquito the Rapist
Director: Marijan Vajda

  • The one I'm going for is the German DVD from Astro as the screen caps I've found look really good. This DVD is OOP but there is no better release from what I can see.
  • There is a Greek DVD (Special Uncut Widescreen Edition) by Dark Side Collection called "Bloodlust: The Black Forest Vampire (Mosquito der Schänder)" which is available from Amazon.co.uk.
  • Also found a French DVD titled "Bloodlust: The Vampire of Nuremberg" which is available from Amazon.co.uk.
  • Another is a 2005 US DVD from PNN(?) Intercontinental Corp.
  • And of course the usual bootlegs.
Label:Astro
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:92
Ratio:1.66:1
Audio:German dubbed | English dubbed
Extras:Gallery | Trailer
Notes:


Blood Song (1982)

AKA: Dream Slayer; The Hunters
Director: Alan J. Levi

  • The one I'm going for is a double-feature (paired with "Mausoleum") DVD from BCI.
  • Another release is a four movie set (2 double-sided discs) from Brentwood called "Blood Bath 2". This probably uses the same master as the BCI release as they're both the same company.
  • Note that there is another "Blood Song" AKA "Hellfire" from 1995 staring Ben Cross. Even the Melon Farmers site gets it wrong and uses the image for this film for the 1982 film. This is not the film you want.
Label:BCI
Format:DVD
Region:
Length:
Ratio:
Audio:English mono
Extras:Trailers | Commentary for "Mausoleum" | Intermission | short
Notes:Double bill with "Mausoleum". BCI could not find any original prints and had to resort to a VHS tape as a source.


The Blue Eyes of the Broken Doll (1973)

AKA: Los ojos azules de la mu?eca rota; House of Doom; House of Psychotic Women
Director: Carlos Aured

  • The BCI release seems to be the only one.
Label:BCI
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:Uncut
Ratio:1.33:1 open-matte fullscreen
Audio:English | Spanish (English subtitles)
Extras:Introduction | Commentary | Spanish opening sequence | Trailer | Gallery | Booklet
Notes:Remastered from an original negative. Also available as part of a 2-disc set with "Human Beasts" or with the 5-disc Paul Naschy Collection.




Brutes and Savages (1975)

AKA:
Director: Arthur Davis

  • The Synapse DVD seems to be the most complete version running at 15 minutes longer than previous releases and apparently looks great.
  • I think the only other releases are VHS.
Label:Synapse
Format:DVD
Region:1
Length:107
Ratio:1.33:1
Audio:
Extras:Diary | Liner notes
Notes:Created from the original negative.




Last Cannibal World (1976)

AKA: Cannibal; Ultimo mondo cannibale; Le dernier monde cannibale; Mondo Cannibale 2. Teil - Der Vogelmensch; The Last Survivor; Last Cannibal World; Jungle Holocaust
Director: Ruggero Deodato

  • The Shriek Show DVD wins.
  • The Dutch release by Shock is also uncut.
  • The Scandinavian "Cannibal Collection" triple-pack also seems to be uncut.
  • All UK DVDs are cut by 2:46.
Label:Shriek Show/Media Blasters
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:
Ratio:2.35:1 (anamorphic)
Audio:English mono
Extras:Commentary | Interviews | Galleries | Trailers | Filmographies | Lobby cards
Notes:


Cannibals (1980)

AKA: Cannibals; Mondo cannibale; Une fille pour les cannibales; White Cannibal Queen; The Cannibals
Director: Jess Franco [Jesús Franco]

  • The Blue Underground R0 DVD wins.
  • It seems that the majority of the releases are uncut (even the UK Hardgore release) but stay away from the cut German X-Rated release.
  • There is a Shriek Show DVD but I can't find much info about it.
Label:Blue Underground
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:90
Ratio:1.66:1 (anamorphic)
Audio:English mono
Extras:Interview | Trailer
Notes:



The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith (1978)

AKA:
Director: Fred Schepisi

  • The 2-disc Umbrella R0 "Anniversary Edition" DVD wins. It's a new widescreen telecine transfer with a load of nice extras. Please note that this release is OOP, so...
  • Umbrella also do a single disc edition if you can't find the above with just the commentary and trailer.
  • The only other release I could find is from Industrial Entertainment.
Label:Umbrella Entertainment
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:117
Ratio:2.35:1 (anamorphic)
Audio:English mono
Extras:Commentary | Trailers | Documentary | Interview | Featurette | Q&A | International Film Festival | Gallery
Notes:2-disc



The Child (1976)

AKA: Zombie Child; Kill and Go Hide
Director: Robert Voskanian

  • Something Weird wins as its picture seems better than the UK releases, plus it has "Harry Novak free" extras.
  • Else there's several UK releases (4Digital Media, Hardgore) that seem very similar to each other.
  • If you're in the UK you stand a good chance of finding it in Poundland!
Label:Something Weird
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:82:48
Ratio:1.33:1 (non-anamorphic)
Audio:English mono
Extras:Trailer | Bonus feature | Shorts | Gallery | Trailers
Notes:Comes with "I Eat Your Skin" as a bonus feature.



Christmas Evil (1980)

AKA: You Better Watch Out; Terror in Toyland
Director: Lewis Jackson

  • The R0 Vinegar Syndrome Blu/DVD combo wins.
  • The Arrow (R2) and Synapse (R0) come close and seem identical.
Label:Vinegar Syndrome
Format:Blu-Ray/DVD
Region:0
Length:94:12
Ratio:1.78:1
Audio:English mono
Extras:Commentaries (x3) | Trailer | Comment cards | Storyboards | Interviews | Audition tapes | Deleted scenes
Notes:New 4K restoration from 35mm.



Communion (1976)

AKA: Alice, Sweet Alice; Holy Terror; The Mask Murders
Director: Alfred Sole

  • 88 Films R0 DVD wins with a new anamorphic transfer.
  • EuroVideo do a hardbox for those that like that sort of thing.
Label:88 Films
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:102:06
Ratio:1.85:1 (anamorphic)
Audio:English mono
Extras:Commentary | Alternate title sequence | Trailers | Gallery
Notes:Allegedly sourced from the director's own copy, whereas all previous releases used the laserdisc as the source.



Dawn of the Dead (1978)

AKA: Zombies: Dawn of the Dead; Zombie
Director: George A. Romero

  • I've not been looking forward to opening this particular can of worms. I even built a spreadsheet with all the releases, extras etc. on - didn't help.
  • The best Blu-ray is probably the Arrow R0 3-disc with all three legitimate cuts, but this is OOP and pretty expensive. I think that I'd go for the "Ultimate Edition" DVD if I didn't want to spring for the blu. Note that only the theatrical cut is in HD, the other two cuts are in SD.
  • The Japanese Blu-Ray from Happinet/Stingray is worth looking at if you want all three legitimate cuts in HD, but beware the extras are in Japanese and I've read bad things about the transfers and audio. I recommend you do your homework first with this one (in fact I recommend everyone read that page as it's a terrific breakdown of the "Dawn of the Dead" versions and releases).
  • The R1 "Ultimate Edition" is still the DVD winner with all three legitimate cuts and more extras than you can shake a chainsaw at.
  • The Astro is an intersting release as it's the only one I can find with the "Ultimate Cut".
  • The Italian releases have a commentary track not found on any other releases.
  • The old UK BMG releases also have a commentary track not found on any other releases.
  • As is usual though to get every extra you'll need to get various releases!
  • We still do not have the perfect release of this classic. I want to see restorations of all four 4 (yes four) cuts of this film in HD with all the extras in a single release!
Label:Arrow Video
Format:Blu-Ray/DVD
Region:0
Length:2:07:03 | 2:19:25 | 1:59:05
Ratio:1.78:1
Audio:English 5.1 | English stereo
Extras:Commentaries | Documentaries | Featurettes | Trailers | TV & radio spots | Reviews
Notes:3 discs. Only the theatrical cut is in HD, the other two cuts are in SD.


Label:Happinet/Stingray
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:A
Length:2:07:03 | 2:19:25 | 1:59:05
Ratio:1.85:1
Audio:English 5.1 | English mono | Japanese mono
Extras:Commentary | Featurettes | Trailer | Booklet | Postcards
Notes:3 discs.


Label:Anchor Bay
Format:DVD
Region:1
Length:2:07:03 | 2:19:25 | 1:59:05
Ratio:1.85:1
Audio:English 5.1 | English surround | English mono
Extras:Commentaries | Biographies | Galleries | Commercial | Documentaries | Featurettes | Trailers | TV & radio spots | Reviews
Notes:4 discs.

Dawn of the Mummy (1981)

AKA: El Despertar De La Momia
Director: Frank Agrama [Farouk Agrama]

  • A nice simple one. The Anchor Bay R0 DVD is the only anamorphic picture out there, plus it has a few extras.
  • Note that there is a 2015 release called "Dawn of the Mummy" by Roger Christian. This is not the one you want!
Label:Anchor Bay
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:
Ratio:1.78:1 (anamorphic)
Audio:English 5.1 | English stereo
Extras:Commentary | Gallery | Trailer | Production notes
Notes:



Dead Kids (1981)

AKA: Strange Behaviour; Human Experiments; Small Town Massacre
Director: Michael Laughlin

  • The region-free Severin Blu wins with two previously cut scenes being integrated back into the film.
  • Severin also do a R0 DVD with the same extras.
  • The Synapse DVD has the cut scenes as extras.
  • All previous versions prior to the Severin release are cut in the UK.
Label:Severin Films
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:0
Length:101:12
Ratio:2.35:1
Audio:English mono
Extras:Commentaries | Isolated music score | Featurette | Trailers
Notes:Transfer sourced from the original negative. The picture quality is not terrific but this is probably down to the cheap budget of the film rather than the transfer process.



Death Weekend (1976)

AKA: The House by the Lake
Director: William Fruet

  • The only one I could find was one of those crappy looking "Desert Island Classics" releases.
  • You should be able to get it on various bootleg sites as well.
Label:Desert Island Classics
Format:DVD
Region:Maybe 0, who knows?
Length:
Ratio:
Audio:
Extras:
Notes:




Deep Red (1975)

AKA: Profondo Rosso; The Hatchet Murders
Director: Dario Argento

  • If you're going for picture and sound quality then the region-free Blue Underground Blu-Ray wins the day.
  • If it's extras you want then go for the region-free Arrow Blu-Ray.
  • In other words, get both!
  • For DVD go for the Arrow as you get both the theatrical and director's cut.
  • The new 4K restoration from Arrow should be hitting the shops in time for Xmas. This release should end up taking the number 1 spot.
Label:Blue Underground
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:0
Length:105 | 126
Ratio:2.35:1
Audio:English 7.1 | English 5.1 | English mono | Italian 7.1 | Italian 5.1 | Italian mono
Extras:Featurette | Trailers | Music videos
Notes:


Label:Arrow Video
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:0
Length:104:42 | 126:34
Ratio:2.35:1
Audio:Italian 5.1 | Italian Stereo | English stereo
Extras:Commentary | Introduction | Featurettes | Trailers | Booklet | Poster
Notes:2 discs


Demented (1980)

AKA:
Director: Arthur Jeffreys

  • Another film that you'll need to source from your local neighbourhood bootlegger. Twistedanger do a nice looking one - at least it looks better than the Desert Island Classics.
  • Desert Island Classics do a crappy looking DVD.
Label:Twistedanger
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:87
Ratio:4:3
Audio:English
Extras:
Notes:Bootleg




The Demons (1972)

AKA: Les demons; Os Demonios; The Sex Demons; Die Nonnen von Clichy
Director: Clifford Brown [Jesús Franco]

  • The Redemption Blu-Ray of the original French cut is the best looking but...
  • The R2 X-Rated Kult Video DVD has three different cuts of the film. I'd go for that if you don't have a multi-region Blu-ray player.
  • The Redemption Films / Salvation Films DVD is the "Director's Cut".
Label:Redemption Films/Kino Lorber
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:A
Length:118:12
Ratio:2.25:1
Audio:French mono (English subtitles)
Extras:Interview | Deleted footage | Trailers
Notes:Remastered from the original negative. A shame it doesn't include the director's cut.


Label:X-Rated Kult Video
Format:DVD
Region:2
Length:112:44 | 100:52 | 84:12
Ratio:2:35.1 (anamorphic) | 2:35.1 (anamorphic) | 2.35:1 (non-anamorphic)
Audio:French mono | German mono | English mono
Extras:Trailers | Gallery | Bonus scenes | Hardbox
Notes:2 discs. Three different cuts of the film (original French, Director's cut, German theatrical)


Don't Answer the Phone! (1979)

AKA: The Hollywood Strangler
Director: Robert Hammer

  • The Scorpion Blu-Ray wins with its new transfer and extras. This is a limited edition release of 1000 copies, so...
  • Scorpion also do a DVD.
  • The UK Anchor Bay DVD has 5 minutes cut. This seems to be the US 'R' rated version with an additional cut.
Label:Scorpion Releasing
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:0
Length:94:31
Ratio:1.78:1 (anamorphic)
Audio:English 5.1 | English mono
Extras:Commentary | Intro | Interviews | Featurette | Trailer
Notes:Bootleg


Enter the Devil (1972)

AKA: Disciples of Death
Director: Frank Q. Dobbs

  • Something Weird do a DVD-R which is probably of a nefarious origin.
  • Else, get a bootleg.
Label:Something Weird
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:
Ratio:
Audio:
Extras:
Notes:Sourced from a 35mm print.





The Erotic Rites of Frankenstein (1972)

AKA: The Erotic Rites of Frankenstein; La maldicion de Frankenstein; Les experiences erotique de Frankenstein; The Curse of Frankenstein
Director: Jess Franco [Jesús Franco]

  • Redemption Blu-Ray has the full uncut French version and not the clothed Spanish one.
  • Redemption do a DVD as well. As the blu is region A I'm assuming that the DVD will be region 1.
  • I think all other releases are of the Spanish cut.
Label:Redemption Films / Kino Lorber
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:A
Length:74:04
Ratio:2.35:1
Audio:English | French (English subtitles)
Extras:Commentary | Trailer (with commentary)
Notes:Mastered from the original 35mm negative.


The Evil (1978)

AKA: House of Evil; Cry Demon; The Force Beyond
Director: Gus Trikonis

  • I can only find the Shout! Factory DVD release.
  • I swear that there is a legitimate UK release of this film as I saw it in a local market once and stupidly didn't buy it.
Label:Shout! Factory
Format:DVD
Region:1
Length:88:33
Ratio:1.78:1 (Anamorphic)
Audio:English mono
Extras:Commentary | Trailer | TV spot
Notes:Double-bill with "Twice Dead".




The Executioner (1974)

AKA: The Executioner; Like Father, Like Son; Massacre Mafia Style
Director: Duke Mitchell

  • An easy one. The region-free new Grindhouse Releasing Blu-Ray/DVD combo. Just look at those extras!
Label:Grindhouse Releasing
Format:Blu-Ray/DVD combo
Region:0
Length:82:30
Ratio:1.85:1 (Anamorphic)
Audio:English mono
Extras:Documentary | Interviews | Galleries | Filmographies | Trailers | Radio spots | Short film | Home movies | "Bela Lugosi Meets a Brooklyn Gorilla" bonus feature | Dailies | Liner notes | Narration | Treatment | Script
Notes:


Final Exam (1981)

AKA:
Director: Jimmy Huston

  • The region 'A' locked Shout! Factory Blu-Ray wins. Note that while all the review sites say the original producer commentary has been dropped, the Shout! Factory site does list it as an extra.
  • The region '1' Scorpion DVD uses the same Transfer and has pretty much the same extras as the Blu-Ray except that they have a producer commentary rather than the cast commentary.
  • There seems to be a French DVD out there which seems to be 1.85:1 (anamorphic).
Label:Shout! Factory/Scream Factory
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:A
Length:89:49
Ratio:1.78:1
Audio:English mono
Extras:Commentary (cast) | Interviews | Trailer
Notes:Transfer from the original camera negative (the one as same as the Scorpion DVD release). There does not seem to be a producer commentary on the disc regardless of what the Shout! Factory site says.


Foxy Brown (1974)

AKA:
Director: Jack Hill

  • The region 'B' Arrow Blu-Ray wins with it's extras, but...
  • There is a region 'A' blu from Olive but it doesn't have the extras and, according to the screen caps I've seen, picture quality seems a little more "raw", like they didn't fuck with the transfer quite as much as Arrow (that's not to say the Arrow is full of DNR which it isn't). It is darker though.
  • If you want DVD then go for one of the MGM releases out there. They also do a nice DVD box with three blaxploitation movies (Foxy Brown/Coffy/Black Mama, White Mama) that I own.
Label:Arrow Video
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:B
Length:91:40
Ratio:1.85:1
Audio:English mono
Extras:Commentary | Interviews | Gallery | Trailers
Notes:Transfer is from a good quality older master, not a new one.


Label:Olive
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:A
Length:91:40
Ratio:1.85:1
Audio:English mono
Extras:
Notes:


Friday the 13th (1980)

AKA:
Director: Sean S. Cunningham

  • The Blu-Ray's are all identical apart from the UK edition which adds the "Return To Crystal Lake: Making Of Friday The 13th" featurette.
  • Obviously, if you have loads of money then get the OOP box set as well which has a few extras that the standalone disc doesn't have (but it's missing the feature that the standalone does have!), plus it has the original English mono soundtrack. It does have it's faults though.
  • This film is a bit of a mess on DVD in the US so I'd go for a non-US release if possible as there are a couple of scenes where they've either cut stuff or spliced stuff in. If you need a US release then I think the "Deluxe" version is uncut and hasn't been tampered with.
Label:Warner Home Video
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:B
Length:95:17
Ratio:1.85:1
Audio:English 5.1 | French mono | German mono | Italian mono | Portuguese mono | Spanish mono
Extras:Commentary | Featurettes | Short | Trailer | Digital copy
Notes:


Friday the 13th Part 2 (1980)

AKA:
Director: Steve Miner

  • As far as I can see there is still no release that is uncut as all of them use the 'R' rated theatrical cut! I can see no reason for this other than the fact that the cut elements are lost; at least in a suitable condition. Therefore we'll never see this film in it's correct form.
  • The US region-free blu wins but I'm still not happy :(
  • Again, if you have money to burn, then get the OOP box set as well which has a few extras that the standalone disc doesn't have (but it's missing the feature that the standalone does have!). It does have it's faults though.
Label:Warner Home Video
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:0
Length:
Ratio:1.78:1
Audio:English 5.1 | English mono | French mono | Spanish mono
Extras:Featurettes | Short | Trailer
Notes:'R' rated theatrical cut.


G.B.H.: Grievous Bodily Harm (1983)

AKA: G.B.H.; Grievous Bodily Harm
Director: David Kent-Watson

  • You'll have to get a bootleg of this one as there are no official releases. Even this is tricky though - I managed to find a copy here.
  • The 1988 film staring Colin Friels, John Waters and directed by Mark Joffe is NOT the one you want.
Label:Rezarected
Format:DVD-R
Region:0
Length:
Ratio:It looks like 4:3 (pillarboxed)
Audio:
Extras:
Notes:Bootleg




Graduation Day (1981)

AKA:
Director: Herb Freed

  • Both the Vinegar Syndrome and the 88 Films releases are from the 4k restoration but both have completely different extras. I have not managed to find any picture comparisons so I can't tell if either have the best picture. The choice is yours!
  • The 88 Films extras are the same as on the Troma DVD plus the new feature length "Scream Queens: Horror Heroines Exposed" documentary.
  • If you want a DVD then go for the Vinegar Syndrome Blu-Ray/DVD combo. Unless you really want the original Troma extras.
Label:Vinegar Syndrome
Format:Blu-Ray/DVD combo
Region:0
Length:96:42
Ratio:1.78:1
Audio:English mono
Extras:Commentaries | Interviews | Trailer
Notes:New 4k restoration.


Label:88 Films
Format:Blu-Ray/DVD combo
Region:0
Length:96:27
Ratio:1.78:1
Audio:English mono
Extras:Feature length documentary | Interviews | Music video | Featurette | Intro | Trailer
Notes:New 4k restoration.


Happy Birthday to Me (1980)

AKA:
Director: J. Lee Thompson

  • This may be the only time you hear me say this but I think the region 'A' Mill Creek Blu-Ray wins with its improved picture quality. The only difference is that the Anchor bay DVD has a Trailer as its only extra.
  • If you want a DVD make sure you get the Anchor Bay R1 as every other release (all by Columbia/Tristar) replaced the original score with a disco soundtrack!.
Label:Mill Creek
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:A
Length:
Ratio:1.78:1
Audio:English 5.1
Extras:
Notes:This is a single-disc, double bill with "When a Stranger Calls".


Headless Eyes (1971)

AKA:
Director: Kent Bateman

  • Only available as a DVD from Full Moon with a crappy transfer.
  • Bootleg copies will probably still be of shitty quality.
Intro | Non-related trailers
Label:Full Moon
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:78
Ratio:
Audio:
Extras:
Notes:Sourced from VHS tape.




Escape from Hell (1979)

AKA: Escape from Hell; Femmine infernali; El infierno de las mujeres; Escape from Hell; Hell Prison
Director: Edward G. Muller [Edoardo Mulargia]

  • I'm going to go for the Njutafilms release as it's anamorphic but...
  • This one was tough as I couldn't find much info about the several releases.
  • There is a UK Cornerstone DVD that should be uncut and it has a nice cover.
  • The German X-rated Kult R2 DVD (hardbox) is missing the original opening shot but is in the correct aspect ratio (non-anamorphic).
  • The R1 DVD from Shock-O-rama Cinema (triple-bill) is in the wrong ratio.
  • Njutafilms do a Scandinavian DVD release which may be the same transfer as the Troma DVD and it's apparently anamorphic.
  • There is also a Troma DVD which may use the same transfer as the Njutafilms release.
Label:Njutafilms
Format:DVD
Region:2
Length:93
Ratio:Widescreen (anamorphic)
Audio:English (Swedish, Danish subtitles)
Extras:
Notes:

The Hills Have Eyes (1977)

AKA:
Director: Wes Craven

  • The Image Entertainment Blu-Ray wins but is region 'A' locked.
  • The German region 'B' Blu-Ray from Intergroove does not have anywhere near the amount of extras as the US disc.
  • For DVD the old UK or US Anchor Bay 2-disc set has the best extras.
Label:Image Entertainment
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:A
Length:89:47
Ratio:1.85:1
Audio:English 6.1 | English mono
Extras:"Looking Back at The Hills Have Eyes" documentary | "The Directors: The Films of Wes Craven" documentary | Restoration demo | Trailers | TV spots | Alternate ending | Galleries | Biography | Script | Screensavers
Notes:

Home Sweet Home (1980)

AKA: Slasher in the House
Director: Nettie Pena

  • There is a long OOP (2006) Hollywood Entertainment DVD which you can still get but it is expensive.
  • Otherwise, there are bootleg copies out there but even those are tough to track down.
Label:Hollywood Entertainment
Format:DVD
Region:1
Length:85
Ratio:
Audio:
Extras:
Notes:Possibly sourced from VHS tape.




Inseminoid (1980)

AKA: Horror Planet
Director: Norman J. Warren

  • The UK Anchor Bay 4-disc R2 "The Norman J. Warren Collection" DVD box wins with it's anamorphic transfer and shed-load of extras.
Label:Anchor Bay
Format:DVD
Region:2
Length:
Ratio:2.35:1 (anamorphic)
Audio:English 5.1 | English mono
Extras:Commentary | Interviews | Trailer | Making of featurette (44:46)
Notes:Part of the 4-disc set "The Norman J. Warren Collection" along with "Satan's Slave", "Prey", and "Terror". As well as extras for each film on their individual discs there's a bonus disc filled with even more extras!


Invasion of the Blood Farmers (1972)

AKA:
Director: Ed Adlum

  • The R0 Code Red DVD has a better picture than the rest plus it has more extras and an extra feature.
  • There are a few other releases but the PQ isn't great.
  • There is also a German hardbox from X-Cess Entertainment if you like that sort of thing.
Label:Code Red
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:76:55
Ratio:1.78:1 (anamorphic)
Audio:English mono
Extras:Commentary | Trailer | Radio spots
Notes:Double-bill with "Silent Night, Bloody Night"


The Killing Hour (1982)

AKA: The Killing Hour; The Clairvoyant
Director: Armand Mastroianni

  • The Blue Underground and Anchor Bay releases are identical so go with whichever label you prefer. Personally I think the BU release would fit nicely next to the others in my shelves.
Label:Blue Underground
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:96:45
Ratio:1.85:1 (anamorphic)
Audio:English 5.1 | English mono
Extras:Commentary | Deleted scenes | Trailer | Biography
Notes:



The Last Horror Film (1982)

AKA: Fanatic
Director: David Winters

  • The 88 Films Blu-Ray wins, although the picture quality is still quite poor having being put together from various sources, but it is apparently still way better than the previous Troma DVD release. It even picks up all the extras from the Troma release.
Label:88 Films
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:0
Length:87:37
Ratio:1.85:1
Audio:English mono
Extras:Commentary | Introduction | Interviews | Q&A | Trailer | TV spots
Notes:


The Last Hunter (1980)

AKA: L'ultimo cacciatore
Director: Anthony M. Dawson [Antonio Margheriti]

  • The R1 Dark Sky DVD is the most complete version, although still missing 13 seconds compared to the Danish VHS releases. Plus it's in the correct ratio.
  • The Another World Entertainment R2 DVD is also worth looking at as, apart from some missing a small amount of dialogue, it is complete as well.
  • All other releases seem to be cut by 35 seconds (that includes both versions by X-Rated Kult even the "Special Uncut Version").
Label:Dark Sky Films
Format:DVD
Region:1
Length:
Ratio:2.35:1 (anamorphic)
Audio:English mono
Extras:Featurette | Gallery | Trailer
Notes:


The Love Butcher (1975)

AKA:
Director: Mikel Angel; Don Jones

  • The Code Red DVD (the orange cover) presents the film in its correct aspect ratio.
  • Avoid the Jef Films DVD (the blue cover) as it is sourced from a VHS source which itself was pan and scanned.
Label:Code Red
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:84:33
Ratio:2.35:1 (anamorphic)
Audio:English mono
Extras:Commentary
Notes:



Mad Foxes (1980)

AKA: Mad Foxes; Mad Foxes - Feuer auf Rädern; Los violadores; Stingray II; The Bikers and the Disco Kid; The Mad Foxes
Director: Paul Gray [Paul Grau]

  • The Blu-Ray/DVD mediabook combo from Illusions Unlimited (Austria) is supposed to be an improvement over the previous DVD. This pack has two different covers: cover A is limited to 666 units and cover B is limited to 1333 units.
  • R0 DVD Switzerland from ABC (Switzerland)
  • R1 DVD
Label:Illusions Unlimited
Format:Blu-Ray/DVD combo
Region:B
Length:
Ratio:1.85.1 (anamorphic)
Audio:English 5.1 | German 5.1 | Spanish mono (no subtitles)
Extras:Commentary (in German/Austrian with no subtitles) | Gallery | Trailer
Notes:I think this is from the same master as the ABC release but they've brightened everything up a little. Detail is sharper.


Label:ABC
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:
Ratio:1.85.1 (anamorphic)
Audio:
Extras:Trailer
Notes:Restored from the original negative.


Mark of the Devil (1969)

AKA: Hexen bis aufs Blut gequält
Director: Michael Armstrong

  • All three Blu-Ray/DVD combo packs by Arrow, Arrow US and Turbine (Austria) use the same restoration (which was carried out by Turbine) and should be identical. The Arrow releases have identical extras, whereas the Turbine release has different extras, some not in English or with English subs. I guess which version you buy depends on where you live. Oh and the Turbine Blu-ray is limited to 5000 units.
Label:Arrow/Arrow US
Format:Blu-Ray/DVD combo
Region:A/B
Length:97:22
Ratio:1.66:1
Audio:English mono | German mono
Extras:Commentary | Documentary | Featurette | Interviews | Location featurette | Outtakes | Gallery | Trailer
Notes:2 discs (Blu-Ray/DVD)


Label:Turbine
Format:Blu-Ray/DVD combo
Region:B
Length:97:16
Ratio:1.66:1
Audio:English 5.1 | English mono | German 5.1 | German mono
Extras:Commentary (optional PinP mode, no subtitles) | Commentary | Introduction | Outtakes | Trailers | Gallery | Music video | Interviews (most not in English or with English subtitles)
Notes:3 discs (Blu-Ray/DVD/DVD)


Martin (1976)

AKA: Wampyr
Director: George A. Romero

  • The Arrow Immortal DVD (now OOP) set wins this one with its mutiple cuts (includes the Italian, Argento cut 'Wampyr' as well as Martin), aspect ratios and extras.
  • The US R0 Anchor Bay DVD has a different commentary track with Romero, Savini and Amplas.
Label:Arrow Video
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:90:49 | 81:33
Ratio:Martin = 1.85:1 (anamorphic) or 1.33:1 | Wampyr = 1.85:1 (anamorphic)
Audio:English mono | German mono
Extras:Commentary | Featurette | Documentary | TV spot | radio spot | Trailer | Gallery
Notes:2 discs.


Massacre Mansion (1975)

AKA: Massacre Mansion; Mansion of the Doomed; The Terror of Dr. Chaney
Director: Michael Pataki

  • It's the Full Moon DVD or nothing.
Label:Full Moon
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:88
Ratio:4:3 (cropped from 1.85:1?)
Audio:English stereo
Extras:Non-related trailers
Notes:From a VHS master?








Mausoleum (1982)

AKA:
Director: Michael Dugan

  • Get the BCI double-bill DVD with "Blood Song" (see above).
  • Cornerstone (UK) also do a DVD
Label:BCI
Format:DVD
Region:1
Length:96:57
Ratio:1.78:1 (anamorphic)
Audio:English mono
Extras:Commentary | Non-related trailers
Notes:Double bill with "Mausoleum". Sourced from a 35mm print




Midnight (1982)

AKA: The Backwoods Massacre
Director: John Russo

  • The Arrow R0 DVD wins with its extras.
  • One strange thing is that both the Arrow (PAL, 93:48) and Lionsgate (NTSC, 93:42) releases are supposed to be uncut. Surely the Arrow should have a shorter runtime in that case? I get a PAL runtime of 89:52 from an NTSC runtime of 93:42 or an NTSC runtime of 97:48 from a PAL runtime of 93:48 . The only reasons I can think of is that a) the Lionsgate runtime is incorrect, or b) the Lionsgate release is cut by 4:03.
Label:Arrow Video
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:93:48
Ratio:1.33:1 (non-anamorphic)
Audio:English mono
Extras:Interviews
Notes:


Naked Fist (1981)

AKA: Naked Fist; Firecracker
Director: Cirio H. Santiago

  • I can't find a copy other than the R1 Shout Factory DVD release.
Label:Shout! Factory
Format:DVD
Region:1
Length:77:42
Ratio:1.78:1 (anamorphic)
Audio:English mono
Extras:TV spot | Non-related trailers
Notes:Part of the "Lethal Ladies" triple-bill along with "TNT Jackson" and "Too Hot to Handle".






The Nesting (1981)

AKA: The Nesting; Massacre Mansion; Phobia
Director: Armand Weston

  • Blue Underground has a region-free Blu-Ray.
  • Blue Underground also does a R0 DVD.
Label:Blue Underground
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:0
Length:103:21
Ratio:1.85:1
Audio:English 5.1 | English mono
Extras:Deleted and extended scenes | Gallery | TV spots | Trailers
Notes:Sourced from the original camera negative.





The New Adventures of Snow White (1970)

AKA: The New Adventures of Snow White; Grimms Märchen von lüsternen Pärchen; Grimm's Fairy Tales For Adults
Director: Rolf Thiele

  • Not sure which is best as I couldn't find any comparisons or decent reviews.
  • I think the "Grimm's Fairy Tales for Adults" DVD by Shadowplay Enterprises Inc. maybe the one to go for at it's 16 minutes longer (76 mins). This matches the runtime in the IMDB.
  • Compared to the DVD by Historic Erotica which is shorter at 60 minutes. I also think this one is an "on-demand" DVD-R.
Label:Shadowplay Enterprises Inc.
Format:DVD
Region:1?
Length:76
Ratio:
Audio:
Extras:
Notes:


Night Beast (1982)

AKA: Nightbeast
Director: Don Dohler [Donald M. Dohler]

  • The 2-disc R0 Troma DVD is the one to get as it comes with a documentary about the director called "Blood, Boobs, & Beast".
  • Troma also do a single disc edition without the documentary.
Label:Troma Entertainment
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:81:03
Ratio:1.33:1 (Non-Anamorphic)
Audio:English mono
Extras:Documentary | Commentary | Trailer | Outtakes | Non-related Troma extras
Notes:2-disc


Night of the Living Dead (1968)

AKA:
Director: George A. Romero

  • This film is an absolute nightmare to get uncropped and restored. Being in the public domain there's rather a lot of releases (I found 23 on Blu-ray alone).
  • The best of the bunch is the region 'A' Japanese Blu-Ray from Happinet. It has the same transfer as most of the others (cropped in a few scenes but restored) and the most extras.
  • The Region 'B' locked Blu-Ray by Optimum (the one with the white border) is cheaper and easier to source in the UK.
  • The region 'B' Blu-Ray from Network is cut by 35 seconds but I think is the only uncropped release out there.
  • If you're in the US and region-locked then you could go for the Forgotten Films region 'A' Blu-Ray, just make sure you get the 2nd printing as the 1st has 30 seconds missing from the film. Note that this release does not have any extras. Or you could import the Australian region-free Blu-Ray from Umbrella which does have extras.
  • Stay away from any colourised versions and also the "30th Anniversary" DVD release which was re-edited by John Russo.
  • Last point. If the film is in the public domain then why the hell do they region lock the discs?
Label:Happinet
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:B
Length:96:27
Ratio:1.33:1
Audio:English mono (optional Japanese subtitles)
Extras:Commentaries | Documentary | Interview | Trailer
Notes:

Nightmare City (1980)

AKA: Incubo sulla città contaminata; La invasión de los zombies at?micos; City of the Walking Dead
Director: Umberto Lenzi

  • Both Blu-Ray releases suffer picture quality issues but Arrow wins with more extras and two versions of the film, a new 2k restoration and an older transfer that was used by the Raro release. In other words you get both the new release and the Raro release!
  • However, there is an exclusive 49:27 long interview with director Umberto Lenzi on the Raro Blu-Ray.
Label:Arrow Video
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:0
Length:91:00
Ratio:2.35:1
Audio:English mono | Italian mono
Extras:Commentary | Featurette | Interviews | Trailer | Alternate opening titles | Booklet
Notes:


Oasis of the Zombies (1981)

AKA: La tumba de los muertos vivientes; L'abime des morts vivants
Director: A.M. Frank [Jesús Franco]

  • Okay, there are two versions of this film; the French and the Spanish. The Spanish is a little longer (2:32), has had several scenes re-shot (21:50) and a different score. The majority of the releases are of the French version but I've included the specs of the Spanish cut below as well.
  • Note that the Redemption Blu-ray is not a restoration and no image processing was carried out on the transfer (from negative).
  • I wonder why Redemption didn't include the Spanish cut with sub-titles as an extra?
Label:Redemption Films/Kino Lorber
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:0
Length:85:55
Ratio:1.66:1
Audio:English mono | French mono (English subtitles)
Extras:Trailer | Non-related trailers
Notes:French version.


Label:Divisa Red
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:
Ratio:1.85:1 (non-anamorphic, matted)
Audio:Spanish 5.1 (no subtitles)
Extras:Filmographies | Biographies
Notes:Spanish version.


Parasite (1982)

AKA:
Director: Charles Band

  • There are quite a few releases of parasite out there (Pa-Dora, Anchor Bay, Full Moon, WGF, IDA, Millennium, Cult Video) but the standard seems to be the Anchor Bay. I wouldn't be surprised however if they were all pretty much the same.
  • Although, the German WGF release is cut and the Full Moon DVD is a non-anamorphic 1.33:1.
  • There is also a 2004 film of the same name by Andrew Prendergast, which I believe is a remake. This film has a very similar cover on Amazon so be careful. This is not the film you want.
Label:Anchor Bay
Format:DVD
Region:1
Length:84:27
Ratio:2.00:1 (anamorphic)
Audio:English 5.1 | English surround
Extras:Trailer | Booklet
Notes:


Phantasm (1978)

AKA: The Never Dead
Director: Don Coscarelli

  • There is still no Blu-Ray release of this classic and fucked-up horror film apart from a dodgy looking German box (parts I to IV) dubbed in German with no English subtitles. According to reports it's just an up-scaling of the DVDs on a single Blu-Ray disc.
  • As for the release to get? That's easy, the OOP 5 DVD box from Anchor Bay that I stupidly sold a few years back. It's still not very expensive to buy a used copy.
  • If you have money to burn there's a version with special "Sphere" packaging.
  • The Japanese Geneon box is also nice but OOP and more expensive.
  • If you need a R1 release then get the stand-alone US R1 Anchor Bay DVD.
Label:Anchor Bay
Format:DVD
Region:2
Length:
Ratio:1.85:1 (anamorphic)
Audio:English 5.1 | English stereo
Extras:Commentary | Introduction | Featurette | Deleted scenes | Biographies | Trailer
Notes:5-disc set (Phantasm I-IV plus a bonus disc of extras not listed above)


Pigs (1972)

AKA: Pigs; Horror Farm; Daddy's Deadly Darling; The Strange Exorcism of Lynn Hart; The Killer
Director: Marc Lawrence

  • The only release I could find was a DVD from Troma.
Label:Troma
Format:DVD
Region:
Length:
Ratio:1.33:1
Audio:
Extras:
Notes:Another crappy Troma release.







Prey (1977)

AKA: Prey; Alien Prey; The Destructor
Director: Norman J. Warren

  • A poor quality Troma DVD is the only one I could find.
Label:Troma
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:80
Ratio:Full screen
Audio:English
Extras:No related extras
Notes:Shoddy transfer. Rumours of missing footage.







Prom Night (1980)

AKA:
Director: Paul Lynch

  • The Synapse Blu-Ray is supposed to be stunning and has more extras than you can shake a stick at, but is region 'A' locked.
  • If you need a DVD then Synapse is the way to go but again it's an R1 disc.
  • For R2 there isn't a lot of choice apart from the UK Network DVD as it's anamorphic.
  • There's an anamorphic R4 DVD from MRA Entertainment.
  • The German releases are cut.
Label:Synapse
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:A
Length:
Ratio:1.78:1
Audio:English 5.1 | English mono
Extras:Commentary | Documentary | Additional scenes | Outtakes | Trailer | TV & radio spots | Gallery
Notes:

Rabid (1976)

AKA:
Director: David Cronenberg

  • I'm not going to argue about the Arrow region B Blu-Ray and its colour scheme. Currently this is the best release of this film and, as far as I'm aware, the only one on Blu-Ray.
  • For DVD the French TF1 Vidéo R2 double-bill (with "Shivers") DVD is anamorphic and has a few extras.
  • In the US there's the R1 Somerville House Special Edition DVD which is non-anamorphic but has some decent extras.
Label:Arrow Video
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:B
Length:91:20
Ratio:1.78:1
Audio:English mono
Extras:Commentaries | Isolated score and effects track | Interviews | Documentaries | Trailer | Gallery
Notes:

The Prowler (1981)

AKA: The Prowler; Rosemary’s Killer; The Prowler; The Pitchfork Massacre
Director: Joseph Zito

  • The region-free Blu-Ray from Blue Underground wins.
  • Blue Underground also do a region-free DVD with the same extras.
Label:Blue Underground
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:0
Length:88:16
Ratio:1.85:1
Audio:English 7.1 | English 5.1 | English mono
Extras:Commentary | Featurette | Trailer
Notes:





Savage Terror (1979)

AKA: Savage Terror; Primitif; The Primitives; Primitiv
Director: Sisworo Gautama Putra

Label:Rezarected
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:
Ratio:Fullscreen
Audio:
Extras:
Notes:Bootleg. I have no idea if it's dubbed but I assume so.







Scanners (1980)

AKA:
Director: David Cronenberg

  • I've read that the UK region-locked (B) Second Sight Blu-Ray transfer beats the Criterion release as far as picture quality goes. Criterion has also been accused of cropping the image! I'd go for this one if you can.
  • The Criterion Blu-Ray (actually three disc, blu/dvd/dvd) is an older transfer that has issues but if you don't have a region-free player and are in North America then apart from DVD you don't have any choice. But, and it's a big but, the Criterion blu does have loads of extras!
Label:Second Sight
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:B
Length:102:50
Ratio:1.78:1
Audio:English 5.0 | English stereo
Extras:Interviews
Notes:


Scream for Vengeance! (1979)

AKA: Vengeance
Director: Bob Bliss [Bob Blizz]

  • Another bootleg only film. I've found a copy here.
Label:
Format:DVD-R
Region:0
Length:
Ratio:
Audio:English (Dutch subtitles. No idea if they are optional but I doubt it)
Extras:
Notes:Bootleg.







Shogun Assassin (1980)

AKA:
Director: Robert Houston; Kenji Misumi

  • I've read that the UK region-locked (B) Second Sight Blu-Ray transfer beats the Criterion release as far as picture quality goes. Criterion has also been accused of cropping the image! I'd go for this one if you can.
  • The Criterion Blu-Ray (actually three disc, blu/dvd/dvd) is an older transfer that has issues but if you don't have a region-free player and are in North America then apart from DVD you don't have any choice. But, and it's a big but, the Criterion blu does have loads of extras!
  • The region 'B' Blu-Ray (from one of most favourite companies) Eureka wins!
  • If cannot play region 'B' discs then DVD is the only option. get the AnimEigo 5-disc set. This release also includes the Lone Wolf and Cub films (I-IV)
  • If you're a fan then get both to combine an amazing amount of extras.
  • Just found out that AnimEigo do a stand-alone Blu-Ray, so that may be worth checking out in North America.
Label:Eureka
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:B
Length:85:02
Ratio:2.35:1
Audio:English stereo
Extras:Commentaries | Featurette | Trailers
Notes:There is a steelbook for those who like them.


Street Killers (1977)

AKA: Street Killers; La belva col mitra; Beast with a Gun; Feroce; Mad Dog Killer
Director: Sergio Grieco

  • The Blue Underground and Anchor bay releases are identical but the Anchor Bay is OOP.
  • I also found a German DVD with a really terrible cover. Also OOP.
Label:Blue Underground
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:95:17
Ratio:2.35:1 (Anamorphic)
Audio:English mono
Extras:Trailer
Notes:




Suicide Cult (1975)

AKA: Suicide Cult; The Astrologer
Director: Jim Glickenhaus [James Glickenhaus]

  • No official release so bootleg only.
  • Twistedanger do a copy.
Label:Twistedanger
Format:DVD-R
Region:0
Length:
Ratio:Fullscreen
Audio:
Extras:Trailer
Notes:Bootleg






Superstition (1982)

AKA: The Witch
Director: James W. Roberson

  • The Momentum R2 wins but only just. It has an extra 8 seconds of footage over the Anchor Bay release. Plus it's cheaper.
  • However, the Anchor Bay R1 DVD does have a trailer as a extra.
  • There is also a Spanish DVD from IDA and a Korean DVD that I can't find a label for.
Label:Momentum
Format:DVD
Region:2
Length:
Ratio:1.78:1 (anamorphic)
Audio:English mono
Extras:
Notes:


Suspiria (1976)

AKA:
Director: Dario Argento

  • The winner will be the Synapse Blu-Ray (using the original camera negative) if it ever gets released. Until then...
  • The current best release goes to the German '84 Entertainment with its 4-disc 4k restoration from the existing HD master.
  • There is also a Spanish DVD from IDA and a Korean DVD that I can't find a label for.
Label:'84 Entertainment
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:B
Length:
Ratio:
Audio:English mono | English stereo | German mono | Italian 5.1
Extras:Soundtrack CD | Commentary | Booklet | Q&A | Trailers | TV spot | Gallery | Short | Claudio Simonetti performing live | BBFC cuts reel
Notes:4 disc (Blu-Ray/DVD/CD)


Terror (1978)

AKA:
Director: Norman J. Warren

  • As far as an uncut release goes, you've have to get the R0 Scorpion Releasing DVD.
  • For the sheer amount of extras and and extra features then go for the UK R2 "The Norman J. Warren Collection" from Anchor Bay. Please note that this is cut in several places. However, you'll want this set for Inseminoid [1980] (see above) anyway.
Label:Scorpion Releasing
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:84:18
Ratio:1.78:1 (anamorphic)
Audio:English mono
Extras:Introduction | Featurette | Deleted footage | Trailers
Notes:


Label:Anchor Bay
Format:DVD
Region:2
Length:79:21
Ratio:1.85:1 (anamorphic)
Audio:English 5.1 | English mono
Extras:Commentary | Deleted footage | Trailer | Radio spot
Notes:Part of the 4-disc set "The Norman J. Warren Collection" along with "Satan's Slave", "Prey", and "Inseminoid". As well as extras for each film on their individual discs there's a bonus disc filled with even more extras!


The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)

AKA:
Director: Tobe Hooper

  • I wonder if anyone has done a list with every single TCM release on it?
  • You remember when the "Seriously Ultimate" edition came out a few years back (the one I bought), well it's been superseded by the "40th Anniversary" edition and there's five different ones, so it's spreadsheet time again... I found 72 different specifications (including various audio encodings) for all the blu releases!
  • Each release always tries to add something unique so finding a single Blu-Ray with everything on is impossible.
  • I'd go for the US "40th Anniversary Collector's Edition" as a 1st choice. It is region 'A' locked though. It even has the film and extras on DVD if you need it.
  • Else, either the UK "40th Anniversary Restoration" or the Australian "40th Anniversary Ultimate Edition" are very good. Both are region 'B'.
  • The German Blu-Ray has exclusive extras but some are not English friendly.
  • The French Blu-Ray has burned in subtitles on its extras which is unforgivable.
  • Stay away from the older Dark Sky region 'A' "Ultimate Edition" as it uses an older transfer restored by Don May rather than the newer 4K scan overseen by Tobe Hooper.
Label:Dark Sky Films
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:B
Length:83:23
Ratio:1.78:1
Audio:English 7.1 | English 5.1 | English stereo | English mono
Extras:Documentaries | Interviews | Deleted scenes & outtakes | Bloopers | Gallery | Trailers | TV & radio spots
Notes:4 discs (Blu-Ray/Blu-Ray/DVD/DVD).


The Thing (1982)

AKA:
Director: John Carpenter

  • I am assuming that all current Blu-Ray releases use the same transfer so the prize goes to the one with the best extras. It looks like the Australian, French, German, Dutch and UK releases all have identical extras and are region-free so they all win. I've listed the UK release as that was the one that was easiest for me to get.
  • For a change, considering this is a major American horror film, the US Blu-Ray seems very lacklustre with just the documentary which is only available using u-control (that picture-in-picture thing that means the only way to watch it is to have it on when you watch the film), and a shitty bookmarking feature. All other release have u-control but also have the doc separately as a stand-alone extra as well as more extras.
  • The US (R1) "Remastered Collector's Edition" has the extras missing from the US Blu-Ray. Get this if you need a DVD release.
Label:Universal Pictures
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:0
Length:108:34
Ratio:2.35:1
Audio:English 5.1 | French 5.1 | German 5.1 | Italian 5.1 | Spanish stereo
Extras:Commentary | U-control Documentary | Documentary | Production Archive | Gallery | Storyboards | Location design | Saucer | Blairmonster | Outtakes | Post production notes | Trailer
Notes:


The Mad Doctor of Blood Island (1968)

AKA:
Director: Eddie Romero; Gerardo De Leon

  • I've found a couple of releases. The winner is the DVD from Alpha New Cinema as it comes with a commentary and interview. They also do the other films in the series and are much cheaper than...
  • The Image Entertainment "Blood Island" offers four of the "Blood" collection on four separate discs along with trailers and galleries but it is pretty expensive compared to stand-alone releases.
  • Interestingly if you buy the Alpha New Cinema DVD from oldies.com you get the chance to buy a matching poster to go with your DVD.
Label:Alpha New Cinema
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:90
Ratio:2.35:1
Audio:English
Extras:Trailers | Interview | Commentary
Notes:


The Toy Box (1970)

AKA:
Director: Ron Garcia

  • The Something Weird double-bill DVD wins with it's extras. I couldn't find much about the other two releases but I've listed a bit about them below. This release is getting pretty expensive however so...
  • There's a R2 DVD from Another World Entertainment (AWE) that has optional subtitles (Danish, Finnish, Norwegian, Swedish subtitles). There may be extras, who knows?
  • Lastly there's a R2 triple-bill from Revelation Films called "The Harry Novak Collection Volume Two" that includes "The Notorious Cleopatra" and "Wilbur And The Baby Factory". There may be extras, who knows?
  • I have no idea what the picture/sound quality is like on any of these releases!
Label:Something Weird/Image Entertainment
Format:DVD
Region:1?
Length:
Ratio:1.85:1
Audio:English mono
Extras:Trailers | Short films | Gallery
Notes:Double-bill with "Toys Are Not For Children"


Werewolf Woman (1976)

AKA: Werewolf Woman; Naked Werewolf Woman; La lupa mannara; La louve se déchaîne; The Legend of the Wolf Woman
Director: Rino Di Silvestro

  • The Raro Blu-ray wins with an improved picture (although the colours look colder and not as lurid as the Shriek Show DVD - no idea if this is accurate) and both English and Italian soundtracks.
  • Raro also do a R0 DVD.
Label:Raro Video
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:0
Length:97:28
Ratio:1.85:1
Audio:English mono | Italian mono
Extras:Interview | Trailers
Notes:



Wrong Way (1972)

AKA: The Hitch Hiker
Director: Ray Williams

  • Desert Island Classics do one of their shoddy DVDs.
  • Else pick up a bootleg. Twistedanger.com do one.
Label:Desert Island Classics
Format:DVD
Region:0
Length:78
Ratio:
Audio:
Extras:
Notes:




Xtro (1982)

AKA: Judas Goat
Director: Harry Bromley Davenport

  • I think there are five different cuts of this film and numerous releases on DVD.
  • I'll go for the Italian R2 DVD from Stormovie but if you're in the US then go for the Image Entertainment R1 DVD. It was hard to pick one though.
  • The majority of the DVD releases (Image Entertainment [US] long version, Stormovie [IT] long version, Film Shock 2000 [UK] short version) seem to have exactly the same extras and I'd be inclined to think they use the same transfer as well.
  • The German 2-disc R0 release from "Marketing Film" offers three different cuts but is non-anamorphic so I'd back it up with either the Italian or US releases.
  • The UK release from "Film Shock 2000" offers all films in the trilogy but both films 2 and 3 are NTSC to PAL conversions.
  • Stay away from the German "FSK 16" rated DVD by Best Entertainment.
Label:Stormovie
Format:DVD
Region:2
Length:79:37
Ratio:1.85:1
Audio:Italian 5.1 | Italian mono | English mono (optional Italian subtitles)
Extras:Interview | Alternate endings | Deleted scene | Gallery | Trailer
Notes:


Zombie Holocaust (1980)

AKA: Zombi Holocaust; Dr. Butcher M.D.; Queen of the Cannibals
Director: Frank Martin [Marino Girolami]

  • The 88 Films Blu-Ray wins the day with a new restored transfer, an Italian soundtrack and some great extras. Note that it is region 'B' encoded however. Its only issue is that English subtitles are forced if you go for the Italian soundtrack which is a little silly.
  • If you need a region 'A' release then the Shriek Show Blu-Ray will do you.
  • DVD wise, I'd go for the 88 Films release of the same transfer as the Blu-Ray.
Label:88 Films
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:B
Length:84:01
Ratio:1.78:1
Audio:English mono | Italian mono
Extras:Documentary | Q&A | Deleted scene | Trailer
Notes:Forced English subs on the Italian soundtrack.


Zombie Lake (1980)

AKA: Zombie Lake; Zombies Lake; Zombie Lake; El lago de los muertos vivientes; La lac des morts vivants; Lake of the Living Dead
Director: J.A. Laser [Jean Rollin]; Julian de Laserna

  • I'd go for the region-free Redemption Films Blu-Ray. Note that the film has not been restored and you will see dirt and scratches on the transfer. Think of it as a reference print :)
  • If you need a DVD then the R1 from Image Entertainment seems to be the best with both French and English soundtracks and some extras.
Label:Redemption Films/Kino Lorber
Format:Blu-Ray
Region:0
Length:87:10
Ratio:1.66:1
Audio:English mono | French mono
Extras:English title sequence | Alternate scenes | Trailers
Notes:


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