Reviewing films slightly off the beaten path
The ‘Burbs was released in 1989 to a harsh critical reception. Over time the film has become a true cult classic. The film is not just one of the best Joe Dante movies, it is one of the best comedies from the Eighties. The Shout!Factory Collector’s Edition is the best available version of the film.
The sophomore feature by S. Craig Zahler is a well crafted piece of grind house cinema with a stellar lead performance by Vince Vaughn. This one is not to be missed!
The debut film from writer/director S. Craig Zahler is a truly unique Western that borrows elements from the Horror genre. Kurt Russell leads an amazing ensemble cast.
The Banker is a fun and over the top erotic thriller from the late Eighties that stands out by featuring the great Robert Forster in the lead role.
Forbidden Photos of a Lady Above Suspicion is an early thriller by director Umberto Lenzi. The Arrow release features good specs and very good special features.
Judgment Night is a thriller from the Nineties starring Emilio Estevez, Cuba Gooding Jr. and Denis Leary. WB Archive has given the film a great looking transfer from a 2K scan.
Someone to Watch Over Me is an enjoyable romantic thriller that is beautifully shot and well acted. The film’s story is a little thin, but it still works overall thanks to the great direction of Ridley Scott.
Universal Horror Collection: Volume 4 features two non-horror entries by Boris Karloff, and two horror entries featuring Lionel Atwill, Bela Lugosi, and Rondo Hatton.
Warning Sign is an enjoyable science fiction film involving a pathogen outbreak. The film benefits from good casting and cinematography by Dean Cundey.
Perfect Blue is a fantastic psychological thriller. Satoshi Kon’s first film had a lasting impact on other director’s work and remains one of the finest anime films.
8 Million Ways to Die is an interesting failure. There is a good film inside of what is presented, but Hal Ashby never got the chance he deserved to cut the film his way. I am really thankful that Kino Lorber has given the film a chance to find an audience on Blu-ray.
