Reviewing films slightly off the beaten path
Shout! Factory has given the Seventies revenge classic “Rolling Thunder” a definitive 4K UHD release. The film has aged like fine wine due to John Flynn’s down and dirty direction of a script with conflicting visions from Paul Schrader and Heywood Gould. William Devane is great in the lead role.
Elizabeth Banks’ ridiculous comedy-horror “Cocaine Bear” delivers laughs and gore in equal measure. Universal has given the film a great looking and sounding 4K release that will please the fans.
“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.
Universal Pictures has given Scott Derrickson’s “The Black Phone” a proper UHD release. Adapted from a Joe Hill story, the film is a very well made horror-thriller with a supernatural twist. Definitely check it out!
Paramount Pictures has given the 1997 thriller “Kiss the Girls” a 4K UHD release. Morgan Freeman stars as Dr. Alex Cross from James Patterson’s bestselling novels.
“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.
“Training Day” is one of the best urban crime films thanks to excellent performances by Denzel Washington and Ethan Hawke and an excellent soundtrack of Los Angeles rap. Warner Bros. have given the film a strong 4K transfer and excellent Atmos track.
“The Russia House” is a well made espionage film with romantic elements adapted from John le Carré’s novel. Starring Sean Connery and Michelle Pfeiffer, Twilight Time released the film on Blu-ray.
“Cloverfield” was destined to be a cult film. Its experimental narrative techniques set it apart from other creature features and other films in general. Paramount’s handsome steelbook edition brings the best out of the film in 4K.
