“Messiah of Evil” is one of the best horror films from the Seventies. Blending elements of the Gothic, Lovecraft, and “Night of the Living Dead,” it creates something uniquely American. The Radiance Films release earns our highest recommendation.
“American Pop” manages to traverse four generations of history and music in 96 minutes. It’s not perfect, but it is ambitious. Sony has given the film a Blu-ray release.
With “A Moment of Romance” Radiance Films dives into Nineties Hong Kong cinema with Benny Chan’s film that is both a crime story and melodramatic romance. Andy Lau stars in an early role. The tonal changes are interesting, David Dresser’s essay is excellent, and this release comes recommended.
“Magnificent Warriors” is an Indiana Jones style adventure film set during the Indo-China War. It is a showpiece for Michelle Yeoh’s incredible martial arts skills. 88 Films has given the film a very nice release.
“Yakuza Graveyard” reunited director Kinji Fukasaku with writer Kazuo Kasahara. With a cast that includes Tetsuya Watari, Nobuo Kaneko, and Meiko Kaji, the results are predictably excellent. Radiance Films has given the film a Blu-ray release.
Fun City Editions has given the 1995 independent comedy “Party Girl” a Blu-ray release from a new 4K restoration. Parker Posey shines in the film that was a staple of video stores in the Nineties.
“Breathless” is an enjoyable reimagining of the classic French film. It can not match the original, but can be enjoyed on its own merits due to extremely colorful cinematography by Richard H. Kline. Fun City Editions has given the film a good release with a new 2K restoration.
“Cutter’s Way” is a low-key masterpiece of the sundrenched noir genre. The film stars Jeff Bridges and John Heard in an unforgettable performance. The Fun City Edition Blu-ray earns our highest recommendation.