Reviewing films slightly off the beaten path
“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.
“Married to the Mob” is a colorful film that mixes mobster intrigue and romantic comedy elements. Fun City Editions has given the film a solid 2K scan and new special features.
An uncommonly affecting teenage sex film, “The Last American Virgin” stands above most examples in the genre. MVD Rewind has given the film a Blu-ray release that finally ports over all of the Arrow Video featurettes.
“Nightmare at Noon” is a fun – if flawed – action film from Nico Mastorakis. Fans of the film will be happy to see that Arrow has improved the video and audio for this release.
“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” is the best holiday comedy ever made. Chevy Chase was never better than as Clark Griswold, and John Hughes’s script is exceptional. Warner Bros. has given the film a 4K release.
“The Kindred” is an entertaining mad scientist – nature subverted- creature feature from the Eighties. Synapse Films has given the slime covered film an excellent release.
“The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2” flies in the face of convention to deliver one of the most over-the-top sequels ever made.
“The Funhouse” is a well made horror film from Tobe Hooper that is set apart by strong production design, its carnival setting, and Andrew Laszlo’s cinematography. Shout! Factory’s 4K UHD release is excellent.
“The Fog” is one of the most atmospheric horror films ever made. John Carpenter’s classic has been given an amazing new UHD release by Shout! Factory that ups the ante with an Atmos track.
“The Lost Boys” is a teenage vampire film from 1987 that still works because of its strong visuals, great cast, and off-beat comedic charms. Warner Bros. UHD release looks and sounds fantastic.
