Monday, October 11, 2021

VAULT MASTER'S COLLECTOR'S CORNER: MY KINO LORBER ROCKTOBER 2021 HAUL!

 

Vault Master's Collectors' Corner Logo
Just got my latest Blu-ray haul (after I promised myself I wouldn't splurge for the remainder of the year) from Kino Lorber, who is currently having a ROCKTOBER SALE (ends on October 26th, 2021), with some really great prices on hundreds of classic titles! There's a lot of Code Red reissues (e.g. CONQUEST, JUST BEFORE DAWN, PANIC, SLITHIS, DEVIL'S EXPRESS), a bunch of Film Noir boxed sets, and more for some really hard to beat prices!

I myself just blew in BURIED ALIVE (a staple of my childhood that used to play on USA Network all the time!), CONQUEST (Fulci does sword & sorcery), DEVIL'S EXPRESS, GOG (in 3D!), JUST BEFORE DAWN (which contains two cuts of the film), THE MASK (in 3D!), THE MAZE (in 3D!), THE QUEST (aka FROG DREAMING), and SEPTEMBER STORM (in 3D!)! As an added bonus, I pre-ordered the complete KOLCHAK: THE NIGHT STALKER TV series (it's currently cheapest if you order direct from Kino) and it showed up early! 

View a few pics of my newest acquisitions below and be sure to follow me over on Instagram for more similar posts! Also be sure to follow me over on Facebook and Twitter for a constant stream of random thoughts, Blu-ray announcements, and other cool stuff!



Tuesday, September 28, 2021

50% COMMANDO. 50% NINJA. 100% AMERICAN. Get Ben Combes' COMMANDO NINJA on Blu-ray Today!

 

Cover art for ETR Media's upcoming Blu-ray of COMMANDO NINJA!
BEN COMBES' THROWBACK TO 80'S ACTION CINEMA IS COMING TO BLU-RAY DISC FROM ETR MEDIA!

With the success of several no-budget proof of concept trailers-turned hit indie films like KUNG FURY and TURBO KID, it was no surprise that other indie filmmakers would be inspired to do their own over-the-top takes on 80s action fare as well! Case in point, Ben Combes' 2018 fan favorite: COMMANDO NINJA! Available for free on YouTube for years (so you can try before you buy!), this irreverent love letter to films like KICKBOXER, COMMANDO, RAMBO: FIRST BLOOD PART II, and others arrives on Blu-ray disc for the first time with some really cool bonus features!

Synopsis: 1986: John Hunter is a Vietnam veteran, half commando, half ninja, 100% American. He is forced back into action when his young daughter is kidnapped by a secret ninja organization, led by a Central American dictator who wants to create a new world order through time... Unfortunately for them, she is the only thing he would kill again for. Hunter will have to fight his way through an army of ninjas, vietcongs, punks, dinosaurs, mutants, one of his former commandos and a fully equipped private army. With the help of his old friend Hopkins, Hunter will have to combine the arts of ninjutsu and guerilla warfare to become the ultimate soldier and rescue his daughter.

Disc Specs:
Not Rated | Color | 68 minutes | Region Free
Video - 1080p Widescreen (1.78:1)
Audio - English Dolby Digital 2.0

Extras:

  • Feature Length Making of Documentary
  • Hopkins: A Commando Ninja Short Film
  • Trailer
  • Character Biographies
  • Theme Song

COMMANDO NINJA is now available from Vinegar Syndrome's partner label ETR Media! The disc should cost between $20 - $28 and you can order it now from AMAZON, BULL MOOSE, DIABOLIK DVD, or directly from VINEGAR SYNDROME (which will also net you a limited edition slipcover if you act now)!



Wednesday, September 22, 2021

STOCK YOUR VAULT: New Blu-rays and 4K Discs for 09/21/2021!

 

The B-Movie News Vault's STOCK YOUR VAULT Logo!

Vault Master's Pick of the Week for 09/21/2021 is Kino Lorber Studio Classics' Blu-ray release of GOLDEN NEEDLES!
Vault Master's Pick of the Week!
Greetings Vault Dwellers and welcome to another new edition of the News Vault's STOCK YOUR VAULT column! This week has a pretty good mix of new must-own titles on Blu-ray and 4K disc, but as we get closer to the Halloween season, I urge you to plan accordingly because October is going to be expensive! Moving on then....

Lionsgate's Vestron Video label released the director's cut of DEMENTIA 13 to Blu-ray (sadly the theatrical cut is not included), Ronin Flix gives modern Horror favorite HAUNT a nice Special Edition Blu-ray release, and Shudder hits us with two new fright flicks, namely BOYS FROM COUNTY HELL and VIOLATION.

Severin Films has re-released their massive DUNGEON OF ANDY MILLIGAN Blu-ray set which features well over a dozen films on 9 discs (and comes with a soundtrack CD), Arrow Video brings IMMORAL TALES back into print in a new 2-Disc set, and Scream Factory brings IFC Midnight's THE VIGIL to Blu-ray disc.

On the 4K front, Warner Bros. finally gives A CLOCKWORK ORANGE its own standalone release, Studiocanal brings Joe Dante's THE HOWLING to 4K UHD for its 40th anniversary (note: the 4K disc is region free, however the Blu-rays are Region B locked), and the latest installment of the increasingly ridiculous FAST & THE FURIOUS series has just arrived on both 4K UHD & Blu-ray!

And while I'm super stoked to own the CROCODILE DUNDEE TRILOGY on Blu-ray (thanks Paramount!), and even though Kino Lorber has multiple new titles out as of yesterday, my choice as the Pick of the Week goes to Kino's new Blu of Robert Clouse's obscure GOLDEN NEEDLES! This film has been given a new 2K restoration and comes complete with a new audio commentary, image gallery, and more!

There's a bunch of other Blu-rays and 4Ks out this week - scroll on down to peep out the list!

NEW TO 4K ULTRA HD BLU-RAY
A Clockwork Orange (4K UHD - Warner Bros.)
F9: The Fast Saga (4K UHD - Universal)
The Howling (40th Anniversary Edition - 4K UHD - Studiocanal)


NEW TO BLU-RAY
Assault Lily Bouquet: The Complete Season (Funimation)
Batwoman: The Complete Second Season (Warner Bros.)
Bird on a Wire (Kino Lorber Studio Classics)
Boruto: Naruto Next Generations - Boruto Back in Time (Warner Bros.)
Boys from County Hell (Shudder/Image Entertainment)
Breakdown (Paramount Presents)
The Crocodile Dundee Trilogy (Paramount)
Dead Men Don't Wear Plaid (Kino Lorber Studio Classics)
Dementia 13: Directors' Cut (Vestron Video Collector's Series - Lionsgate)
Dr. Who: The Complete Sylvester McCoy - Season One (BBC)
The Dungeon of Andy Milligan Collection (9-Disc Collector's Edition w/CD - Severin Films)
Dusk Maiden of Amnesia: The Complete Collection (Discotek Media)
F9: The Fast Saga (Universal)
From Up on Poppy Hill (Limited Edition Steelbook - Shout! Factory)
God of War II (Well Go USA)
Golden Needles (Kino Lorber Studio Classics)
The Gymnastics Samurai: The Complete Season (Funimation)
Haunt (Special Edition - Ronin Flix)
Immoral Tales (2-Disc Special Edition - Arrow Video)
Macho Callahan (Kino Lorber Studio Classics)
Masquerade (Kino Lorber Studio Classics)
Muhyo and Roji's Bureau of Supernatural Investigation: Season 1 (Funimation)
Porco Rosso (Limited Edition Steelbook - Shout! Factory)
Pufnstuf (1970 - Code Red DVD/Kino Lorber)
Resident Alien: Season One (Universal)
Secrets of Sweet Sixteen / Wacky Taxi (Drive-In Double Feature #11 - Dark Force Entertainment)
Skullduggery (Kino Lorber Studio Classics)
Star Trek Enterprise: The Complete Series (Paramount)
The Vigil (Scream Factory)
Violation (Shudder)


Now Available on Blu-ray Disc: The One Who Owns the GOLDEN NEEDLES Can Rule the World!

Cover art for Kino Lorber Studio Classics' Special Edition Blu-ray of GOLDEN NEEDLES!
KINO LORBER STUDIO CLASSICS GIVES ROBERT CLOUSE'S OBSCURE MARTIAL ARTS ADVENTURE ITS BLU-RAY DEBUT!

Up until recently, I never even knew of the existence of GOLDEN NEEDLES, but having just watched the trailer, I can safely say that I need to grab a copy of this! Directed by Robert Clouse, the man who gave us such martial arts classics as ENTER THE DRAGON, BLACK BELT JONES, and GYMKATA, GOLDEN NEEDLES follows the exploits of various factions vying for the titular seven "Golden Needles."

If used correctly, these acupuncture tools will grant someone superhuman sexual prowess (and possibly eternal life). But if used incorrectly, the needles will cause instant, agonizing death! This movie looks like a total blast and has a fantastic cast - I think we all owe Kino Lorber a big thanks for scooping up this title and giving it a brand new 2K restoration! Never heard of this one yourself? Well Vault Dwellers, pull up a chair and let's you and I take a closer look at this new Kino release!

Synopsis: From Robert Clouse, the sensational director of ENTER THE DRAGON, DARKER THAN AMBER, GAME OF DEATH, FORCE: FIVE, GYMKATA, and THE AMSTERDAM KILL, comes this suspense story of a priceless ancient Chinese statue that is pursued halfway across the world. The legend of the golden statue (which contains seven youth-restoring acupuncture needles) promises the owner health and incredible vigor... but can also deliver a painful death!

Joe Don Baker (THE PACK, WALKING TALL, FRAMED), Elizabeth Ashley (THE GREAT SCOUT AND CATHOUSE THURSDAY), Ann Sothern (THE WHALES OF AUGUST), Burgess Meredith (BURNT OFFERINGS), Roy Chiao (BLOODSPORT), Frances Fong (HELLFIGHTERS), and martial arts legend Jim Kelly (BLACK BELT JONES, THREE THE HARD WAY) are seven desperate people on one desperate chase to find the Golden Needles. Legendary composer Lalo Schifrin (BULLITT, DIRTY HARRY) provides the groovy score!

Disc Specs:

Rated PG | Color | 72 minutes | Region A
Video - 1080p Widescreen (2.39:1)
Audio - English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Mono

Extras:

  • NEW! 2K restoration of the film!
  • NEW! Audio Commentary by critics Howard S. Berger and Chris Poggiali!
  • Radio Spots
  • TV Spot
  • Image Gallery
  • Theatrical Trailer
  • Newly Commissioned Art by Vince Evans!
  • Reversible Art
  • Limited Edition O-Card Slipcase!

Kino Lorber's GOLDEN NEEDLES is currently available wherever Blu-ray discs are sold and should cost between $15 - $18! If this seems like it'd be up your alley, you can order a copy right this very minute from AMAZON, BULL MOOSE, DIABOLIK DVD, or directly from KINO LORBER!


Thursday, September 16, 2021

STOCK YOUR VAULT: New Blu-rays and 4K Discs for 09/14/2021!

 

The B-Movie News Vault's STOCK YOUR VAULT Logo!

Vault Master's Pick of the Week for 09/14/2021 is Scream Factory's ALONE IN THE DARK: COLLECTOR'S EDITION!
Vault Master's Pick of the Week!
Egads! I can't believe that the last STOCK YOUR VAULT entry was back on March 1st! Becoming a parent has altered my life in so many ways, and I knew that my ability to generate content here (and elsewhere) would be somewhat limited but.... damn.

And seeing as how free time has become a precious commodity that I don't have much of these days, I've decided to streamline things a bit and focus this column entirely on new Blu-ray and 4K UHD releases. I know, I know... this is a bit of a slap in the face to the "direct-to-DVD" crowd, but for the time being there isn't much I can do about that.

With all that said, let's take a look at this week's new Blu-ray and 4K releases, of which there are plenty!
 
Mill Creek Entertainment delights Ultraman fans this week with their new (DVD only?!) releases of ULTRAMAN 80 and ULTRAMAN: THE ANIMATED SERIES, while Code Red once again teams with Kino Lorber, this time to bring THE FRENCH CONSPIRACY (aka THE ASSASSINATION) to Blu-ray disc!

Shout! Factory dropped the new post-apocalyptic film HUNTERS to Blu-ray, along with some great animated offerings including Laika's KUBO AND THE TWO STRINGS & PARANORMAN, as well as a limited edition steelbook of the anime classic PERFECT BLUE! Meanwhile our pals at Arrow Video have released the wonderful new COLD WAR CREATURES: FOUR FILMS FROM SAM KATZMAN limited edition boxed set, which contains HD transfers, and a plethora of extras, for CREATURE WITH THE ATOM BRAIN, THE WEREWOLF, ZOMBIES OF MORA TAU, and THE GIANT CLAW!

Scream Factory released a new fright flick called MASQUERADE, but our choice pick of this week is easily their new Collector's Edition release of Jack Sholder's ALONE IN THE DARK! Long out of print, this overlooked 80s slasher classic makes its big Blu-ray debut with a new 2K transfer and a variety of new and archival bonus features! While there is currently a delay on getting this disc out to everyone that pre-ordered a copy, before this month is through we should all have our ALONE IN THE DARK Blu-rays in hand!

There's a smattering of other new titles out on Blu-ray and 4K UHD from various other companies (e.g. Epic Pictures, Kino Lorber Studio Classics, Funimation) this week. To see the full foster, just continue scrolling!


NEW TO 4K ULTRA HD BLU-RAY

Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters (4K UHD - Paramount)
The Shawshank Redemption (4K UHD - Warner Bros.)


NEW TO BLU-RAY
Alone in the Dark (1982 - Collector's Edition - Scream Factory)
Arabesque (Kino Lorber Studio Classics)
Black Clover: Season 3, Part 5 (Funimation)
Black Clover: Season 3, Part 5 (w/ art book - Funimation)
Bluebeard (aka Landru - Kino Lorber Studio Classics)
Blue Panther (aka Marie-Chantal vs. Doctor Ka - Kino Lorber Studio Classics)
Cold War Creatures: Four Films from Sam Katzman (Limited Edition - Arrow Video)
The Devil in Maddalena (One 7 Movies)
Eli Roth's History of Horror: Season 2 (AMC)
The French Conspiracy (aka The Assassination - Code Red/Kino Lorber)
The Highlander (Lionsgate/Studiocanal)
Howling Village (Epic Pictures)
Hunters (Shout! Factory)
Kubo and the Two-Strings (Shout! Factory)
Magical Girl Site: Complete Collection (Section 23)
Masquerade (1965 - Kino Lorber Studio Classics)
Masquerade (2021 - Scream Factory)
ParaNorman (Shout! Factory)
Perfect Blue (Limited Edition Steelbook - Shout! Factory)
Rififi in Paris (aka The Upper Hand - Kino Lorber Studio Classics)


NEW TO DVD
The Ultraman: The Complete Animated Series (Mill Creek Entertainment - DVD only)
Ultraman 80: The Complete Series (Mill Creek Entertainment - DVD only)

 

Sunday, September 12, 2021

He Wants Your Body... In Pieces! DEATH SCREAMS Makes Its Blu-ray Debut on September 28th!

Cover art for Arrow Video's Limited Edition Blu-ray of DEATH SCREAMS!
ARROW VIDEO GIVES DAVID NELSON'S LONG FORGOTTEN SLASHER FLICK A NEW LEASE ON LIFE WITH THEIR NEW LIMITED EDITION RELEASE!

I'm an absolute sucker for slasher flicks! From the major franchises, to the multitude of international standalone films featuring psychotic killers, I've seen just about everything the sub-genre has to offer. But every now and again, some rare or obscure slasher movie claws its way up from the depths to be rescued by a boutique Blu-ray label. Which brings me of course to DEATH SCREAMS! The folks at Arrow Video got their hands on the only existing 35mm print of this film and have given it a new 2K restoration, along with a variety of new bonus features (which include two audio commentaries and a making-of documentary)! I have to admit that I'm totally in the dark on this one Vault Dwellers, but that didn't stop me from blindly pre-ordering a copy once I learned of its existence! If you're on the fence about picking up a copy of DEATH SCREAMS, continue onward to learn more about this (mostly) forgotten slice of slasher film history!

Even more limited edition O-Card artwork for Arrow Video's DEATH SCREAMS Blu-ray!

Synopsis:
In one of the most unlikely cinematic pairings of all time, David Nelson (who rose to fame as a child star playing alongside his real-life family in the wholesome TV show The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet) directs Playboy Playmate and adult star Susan Kiger in this bodycount-heavy, long overlooked slice of Southern fried hack-and-slash – 1982's DEATH SCREAMS!

Late one night, a young couple are brutally murdered at a make-out spot by an unseen assailant, their bodies tossed into the nearby river. As the lifeless lovers drift slowly downstream, the residents of the town excitedly prepare themselves for their annual carnival, unaware that a machete-wielding maniac with a twisted grudge is lurking in their midst. When a group of teen revelers plan a late-night after party down in the local cemetery, they unwittingly set the stage for a bloodbath.

DEATH SCREAMS, which was released on US VHS as HOUSE OF DEATH (and on UK DVD with the reels in the wrong order!) oozes early '80s regional slasher charm from its every pore, boasting an everything-but-the-kitchen-sink final reel featuring slashed throats, bisected bodies, and exploding heads. At long last arriving on Blu-ray and lovingly restored from the only-known existing 35mm print, this little-seen slasher classic is ready to carve its way into the bleeding hearts of horror fans everywhere!


Disc Specs:
Not Rated | Color | 88 minutes | Region A
Video - 1080p Widescreen (1.85:1)
Audio - English DTS-HD Master Audio Mono 

Extras:

  • NEW! 2K restoration from an archival 35mm print!
  • NEW! Audio commentary with producer Charles Ison and special effects artist Worth Keeter moderated by filmmaker Phil Smoot!
  • NEW! Audio commentary with The Hysteria Continues!
  • NEW! All the Fun of the Scare: The Making of Death Screams – A newly-produced making-of documentary featuring interviews with producer Charles Ison, special effects artist Worth Keeter, writer Paul Elliott, actors Hanns Manship and Curt Rector, actor/producer's assistant/assistant supervising editor Sharon Alley, and actor/talent wrangler Robert "Billy Bob" Melton!
  • TV and Radio Spots
  • Image Galleries
  • House of Death Alternate VHS Opening Titles
  • Two versions of the screenplay under the original title of Night Screams! [BD-ROM content]

 
Limited Edition Exclusives:

  • Reversible sleeve featuring original artwork and a newly-commissioned reimagining of the original VHS artwork by Sadist Art Designs presented with die-cut slipcover!
  • Fully-illustrated collector's booklet featuring new writing by Brian Albright!

Arrow's Limited Edition of DEATH SCREAMS is due out on Tuesday, September 28th and should cost between $25 - $30! You can order the "standard" limited edition Blu-ray of this film from AMAZON, BULL MOOSE, DIABOLIK DVD, ZAVVI, or directly from ARROW VIDEO! However, there is a secondary release of DEATH SCREAMS that comes with an exclusive limited edition O-Card that reproduces the original theatrical poster art, and you can only obtain this version from ZAVVI or ARROW VIDEO!


Saturday, September 11, 2021

Sam Katzman's COLD WAR CREATURES Will Be Unleashed Upon Blu-ray Collectors on September 14th!

Cover art for Arrow Video's COLD WAR CREATURES: FOUR FILMS FROM SAM KATZMAN Blu-ray set!

ARROW VIDEO RELEASES A QUARTET OF ATOM AGE MONSTER MOVIES IN A GORGEOUS NEW BLU-RAY SET!

I am somewhat familiar with Sam Katzman, mostly thanks to growing up with TNT's MonsterVision and Mystery Science Theater 3000! While he only directed five films during his lengthy career, Katzman produced hundreds of films over four decades, including the ones contained in Arrow Video's new COLD WAR CREATURES set! All four films have restored in HD and come with a variety of supplemental material including audio commentaries, video essays, trailers, Super 8 versions of several films, and more! While a standard release is likely coming down the pipe at some point, don't miss out on this limited edition set because it comes with a pair of double-sided posters and two books as well!
 
Synopses: Zombies! Werewolves! Atomic Mutation! Intergalactic Avians! Let this quartet of classic terrors take you back to the golden age of B-Movie Monsters!

A mob boss hires an ex-Nazi scientist to reanimate his dead thugs in CREATURE WITH THE ATOM BRAIN. An auto-accident survivor is used as an experimental subject to create a vaccine for nuclear fall-out with hair-raising side-effects in THE WEREWOLF. Treasure hunters get more than they bargained for in the search for a cargo of diamonds that went down with a sunken ship when they discover the zombified crew members are guarding the loot in ZOMBIES OF MORA TAU. Meanwhile, an enormous bird from outer-space descends to chow down on the people of planet Earth in THE GIANT CLAW!

Four fantastic feature presentations from prolific producer Sam Katzman with a bounty of brand new extras and a raft of new writing by a range of respected raconteurs. These COLD WAR CREATURES are coming for you!
 
DISC ONE: CREATURE WITH THE ATOM BRAIN (1955)

Specs:
Not Rated | Black & White | 69 minutes | Region A
Video - 1080p Widescreen (1.85:1)
Audio - English LPCM Mono

Extras:
  • NEW! Introduction by historian and critic Kim Newma!
  • NEW! Audio commentary by critic Russell Dyball!
  • NEW! Sam Katzman: Before and Beyond the Cold War Creatures - A feature-length illustrated presentation on the life, career and films of Sam Katzman by historian and critic Stephen R. Bissette! 
  • NEW! Condensed Super 8mm version of Creature with the Atom Brain, produced for home cinema viewing!
  • Theatrical Trailer
  • Image Gallery


DISC TWO: THE WEREWOLF (1956)

Specs:
Not Rated | Black & White | 79 minutes | Region A
Video - 1080p Widescreen (1.85:1)
Audio - English LPCM Mono

Extras:
  • NEW! Introduction by critic Kim Newman!
  • NEW! Audio commentary by critic Lee Gambin!
  • NEW! Beyond Window Dressing - A visual essay exploring the oft-overlooked role of women in the films of Sam Katzman by historian and critic Alexandra Heller-Nicholas!
  • NEW! Condensed Super 8mm version of The Werewolf, produced for home cinema viewing!
  • Theatrical Trailer
  • Image Gallery


DISC THREE: ZOMBIES OF MORA TAU (1957)

Specs:
Not Rated | Black & White | 70 minutes | Region A
Video - 1080p Widescreen (1.78:1)
Audio - English DTS-HD Master Audio Mono

Extras:
  • NEW! Introduction by critic Kim Newman!
  • NEW! Audio commentary by critic Kat Ellinger!
  • NEW! Atomic Terror: Genre in Transformation - A visual essay exploring the intersection of mythical horror creatures and the rational world of science in the films of Sam Katzman by critic Josh Hurtado!
  • Theatrical Trailer
  • Image Gallery


DISC FOUR: THE GIANT CLAW (1957)

Specs:
Not Rated | Black & White | 75 minutes | Region A
Video - 1080p Widescreen (1.78:1)
Audio - English DTS-HD Master Audio Mono

Extras:
  • NEW! Introduction by critic Kim Newman!
  • NEW! Audio commentary by critics Emma Westwood and Cerise Howard!
  • NEW! Family Endangered! - A visual essay examining the theme of Cold War paranoia in Sam Katzman monster movies, by critic Mike White!
  • NEW! Condensed Super 8mm version of The Giant Claw, produced for home cinema viewing!
  • Theatrical Trailer
  • Image Gallery


LIMITED EDITION EXCLUSIVES:

  • Fully illustrated 60-page collector’s book featuring extensive new writing by Laura Drazin Boyes, Neil Mitchell, Barry Forshaw, Jon Towlson and Jackson Cooper!
  • 80-page collector’s art book featuring reproduction stills and artwork from each film and new writing by historian and critic Stephen R. Bissette!
  • 2 double-sided posters featuring newly commissioned artwork by Matt Griffin!
  • Reversible sleeves featuring original and newly commissioned artwork for each film by Matt Griffin!

Arrow Video's Limited Edition COLD WAR CREATURES set arrives at retailers on Tuesday, September 14th and should cost between $65 - $80! If you're a fan of Cold War Era creature features, then definitely pick up this set today from AMAZON, BULL MOOSE, DIABOLIK DVD, ZAVVI, or directly from ARROW VIDEO!


Friday, September 10, 2021

They're Out For Blood - Don't Let Them Find You! ALONE IN THE DARK Arrives on Blu-ray Disc on September 14th!

 

New cover art for Scream Factory's Blu-ray release of Alone in the Dark (1982)!
SCREAM FACTORY GIVES JACK SHOLDER'S LONG OUT OF PRINT HORROR CLASSIC ITS BIG BLU-RAY DEBUT!

UPDATE: Due to supply chain issues, there is a delay with this release. The discs have been manufactured but have not yet arrived at Scream/Shout! Factory HQ, or other retailers. Orders of this title will be filled once the Blu-rays arrive!

I've been a longtime fan of ALONE IN THE DARK - it has a fantastic cast, and a great premise! Martin Landau and Jack Palance often steal the show, and Donald Pleasance's role is an unexpectedly fun departure from his previous work in the HALLOWEEN series. Though ALONE IN THE DARK has languished in limbo for well over a decade, I am pleased to announce that for those of us that were lucky to acquire a copy of the 2005 Special Edition DVD, the time has finally come to upgrade!

As prophesied two years ago by yours truly in a certain Wanted on Blu-ray post, ALONE IN THE DARK is about to be released by Scream Factory with new (reversible) artwork, a new 2K transfer, and a variety of new and archival bonus features! I don't know about you Vault Dwellers, but I am absolutely stoked to receive my copy in the mail next week!

Synopsis: At a secluded mental institution, electricity fuels the hi-tech security system that keeps the nearby neighborhoods safe from deviant menaces like Frank Hawkes (Jack Palance - BATMAN, WITHOUT WARNING) and "Preacher" (Martin Landau - ED WOOD, THE BEING). Dr. Bain (HALLOWEEN's Donald Pleasence) maintains strict order while a new doctor, Dan Potter (The A-Team's Dwight Schultz), arrives in town with his family. But the inmates don't take kindly to Potter's presence and believe he has killed off their former therapist. Suddenly, a power outage leaves the town in chaos ... and now the maniacs are free to roam the streets and hunt down the man they believe has invaded their lives.

With the area quickly descending into riots and chaos, the innocent few must fight for their lives when they're left terrified, cornered and ALONE IN THE DARK! One of the most memorable and terrifying cult horror films of the 1980s, this white-knuckle shocker from director Jack Sholder (A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET 2: FREDDY'S REVENGE, THE HIDDEN) features gory make-up effects from Tom Brumberger (DON'T GO IN THE HOUSE) and Tom Savini (FRIDAY THE 13TH), delivering one seat-jumping scare after another, along with a thick slab of pitch-black humor!


Disc Specs:
Rated R | Color | 93 minutes | Region A
Video - 1080p Widescreen (1.85:1)
Audio - English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0


Extras:

  • NEW! 2K Scan Of The Interpositive!
  • NEW! Out Of The Dark – An Interview With Director And Co-Writer Jack Sholder!
  • NEW! Mother Choppers: The Sic F*cks Remember Alone In The Dark!
  • NEW! Sites In The Dark: The Locations Of Alone In The Dark!
  • NEW! Audio Commentary With Genre Film Critic Justin Kerswell And Film Historian Amanda Reyes!
  • Audio Commentary With Director Jack Sholder!
  • Bunky Lives! – An Interview With Actress Carol Levy
  • Still F*cking Sick – Catching Up With The The Sic F*cks
  • Theatrical Trailer
  • TV Spot
  • Radio Spots
  • Still Gallery

Scream Factory's Collector's Edition of ALONE IN THE DARK will be available on Tuesday, September 14th, and should cost between $26 - $30! If you're a fan of 80s Horror, then make sure you add this title to your collection by ordering a copy today from AMAZON, BULL MOOSE, or directly from SHOUT! FACTORY (which will also net you an 18" x 24" poster)!



Tuesday, July 13, 2021

Vault Master's Collector's Corner: My Small CAMP ARROW VIDEO PART II Sale Haul!

 

Vault Master's Collector's Corner Logo

After taking advantage at various sales from Kino Lorber, Shout! Factory, Severin Films, Vinegar Syndrome, and Amazon, I declared that I was absolutely 100% DONE collecting Blu-rays for a while. And then Arrow Video unleashed their second annual CAMP ARROW VIDEO PART II sale... Hundreds of Arrow titles have been reduced in price at their UK shop, and also over at Zavvi (which is doing a Buy One Get One deal on many discs as well!), Diabolik DVD, and Grindhouse Video! The sale ends on July 26th, so take advantage fellow collectors!

Despite spending an exorbitant amount of money throughout June, I broke down and snagged seven titles from Arrow's website (many of which were Region Free), including: BLOOD TIDE, THE CHILL FACTOR, ONE CUT OF THE DEAD (HOLLYWOOD EDITION), SCARED STIFF, THE SLAYER, TREMORS (standard edition 4K UHD), and WHITE FIRE!

I shared a few photos of my latest Arrow acquisitions over on my Instagram feed - you can view them below!


I saw BLOOD TIDE many years ago after I purchased a bargain-bin DVD of the film which featured a heavily-edited cut that looked like it was mastered from a VHS tape. Now this mostly forgotten creature feature has been lovingly restored in 4K and comes complete with a new director's commentary and interview with Writer/Producer Nico Mastorakis! Joy!

ONE CUT OF THE DEAD recently became a favorite of mine after I saw it on Shudder. If you managed to survive the first half-hour (power through it - trust me!), you'll be treated to an oft-hilarious movie that is full of heart. This release comes with a spin-off film (ONE CUT OF THE DEAD IN HOLLYWOOD) plus a variety of bonus features not found on the standard releases!

TREMORS is a perennial favorite and easily one of the best monster movies ever made! I couldn't help myself and made the (some would argue) necessary upgrade to the new 4K release, which boasts absolutely gorgeous picture and sound, plus an impressive number of newly created special features!

As for the rest, I have never seen THE CHILL FACTOR (2K restoration, new commentary and interviews, VHS workprint, et al.), SCARED STIFF (2K restoration, new audio commentary and making-of documentary, et al.), THE SLAYER (new 4K restoration, audio commentary, isolated score, making-of documentary, et al.), or WHITE FIRE (new audio commentary, new cast & crew interviews, et al.) Just from the description on the back of these discs I'm certain that I am in for quite a ride!

To see what else I've added to my ever-growing movie collection, be sure to scope out my Instagram! To keep up to date on new and upcoming genre titles on Blu-ray and 4K UHD, definitely be sure to follow The Vault on Facebook and Twitter as well!

Until next time Vault Dwellers, continue bulking up your collections to help keep physical media alive in an increasingly digital world!

Saturday, June 26, 2021

WANTED ON BLU-RAY: DEADLY FRIEND (1986)

 

Wanted on Blu-ray: DEADLY FRIEND
WANTED ON BLU-RAY:
DEADLY FRIEND (1986)


Rated R | Color | 91 minutes
 
UPDATE [08/10/2021]: Scream Factory released this title to Blu-ray disc on October 12th, 2021! Get it now from AMAZON or directly through SHOUT! FACTORY.

My memories are a bit fuzzy when it comes to Wes Craven's DEADLY FRIEND, but I remember catching it on cable when I was fairly young. I recall sneaking downstairs to the living room late at night to watch something on the "big TV," but I'm not sure if this film was the reason for that. Regardless, I was excited to be watching DEADLY FRIEND because at that time I was a fledgling Horror fan that had discovered various other Craven films including SWAMP THING, THE PEOPLE UNDER THE STAIRS, and SHOCKER. (Thank you TNT's MonsterVision!)

Looking back, I didn't find DEADLY FRIEND particularly scary, but I do recollect being absolutely floored when Anne Ramsey's head exploded during the film's notorious "death by basketball" scene, and becoming smitten with Kristy Swanson. Oddly enough, my most vivid memory of watching this movie for the first (and now that I think of it, last) time was my reaction at the end: I wept. In retrospect I'm not really sure why, but I guess it was because I thought it was really sad that the lead character lost everyone close to him despite his best intentions? Maybe? I don't exactly know.

What I do know is that we are nearing the 35th anniversary of DEADLY FRIEND's theatrical release (October 10th) and Wes Craven's troubled production still has yet to make the leap to Blu-ray disc! But I have a strong feeling that will change sooner rather than later, seeing as how this title has garnered a decent cult following over the past three decades. And with all of the boutique labels raiding studio vaults these days, it's only a matter of time before DEADLY FRIEND finally gets an upgrade!

Synopsis: Based upon Diana Henstell's novel Friend, DEADLY FRIEND focuses on teenage science whiz Paul Conway (Little House on the Prairie's Matthew Labyorteaux). He and his mother (and his overprotective robotic creation B.B.) move to a new neighborhood, where he befriends the pretty girl next door, Samantha Pringle (Kristy Swanson). The two teens rapidly become close, until a series of unfortunate events occur: B.B. is gunned down by Elvira, the cranky/crazy basketball-stealing old woman that lives across the street (portrayed by Mama Fratelli herself, Anne Ramsey) and Samantha is thrown down a flight of stairs by her abusive father.

Matthew Labyorteaux and B.B. the $20,000 robotic marvel!
A young Michael Bay brainstorms on future film projects with his pal Bumblebee.

Unable to deal with losing the girl he loves, Paul swipes Samantha's comatose body from the hospital (before she's taken off of life support) and installs B.B.'s microchip into her brain. This somehow resuscitates Samantha, who acts oddly robotic (because B.B. is apparently in the driver's seat) and is eager to dole out some punishment to those that have wronged her. After murdering Poppa Pringle (Harry Marcus) exploding Elvira's skull with a basketball, and tossing a bully to his death, Paul's cyborg construct begins showing signs of regaining her humanity. But it's too little too late, and this dark love story builds to tragic end for both of its main characters.
 
Availability: After bombing at the box office, DEADLY FRIEND came to VHS in January of 1994 where it started to build a following. After VHS died off, the film would then be released to DVD in September of 2007, then in a 4-Film set with SOMEONE'S WATCHING ME!, EYES OF A STRANGER, and THE HAND in 2012. There was also a reissued standalone DVD release in 2020. The movie is also available to stream instantly on Amazon Prime Video. There's also a region free Spanish Blu-ray that may or may not be a bootleg.

Current Rights Holder: Warner Bros., so there is a slight chance that DEADLY FRIEND could become part of the Warner Archive Collection at some point! However, if I was a betting man I'd put my money on Scream Factory, seeing as how they've released SOMEONE'S WATCHING ME!, EYES OF A STRANGER, and THE HAND on Blu-ray already. Fingers crossed!

Blu-ray Wishlist:
  • Two cuts of the film: The theatrical version and a "director's cut" that removes the gory moments and restores the deleted scenes and the original ending.
  • A new 2K or 4K transfer of the film!
  • Original mono audio plus (maybe) a newly created 5.1 surround mix.
  • New audio commentary featuring cast and crew, OR a "film historian" like Troy Howarth or Lee Gambin!
  • A new Making-of Featurette or Documentary chronicling DEADLY FRIEND's bumpy path from page to screen, OR some new cast & crew interviews with screenwriter Bruce Joel Rubin, stars Kirsty Swanson and Matthew Labyorteaux, and/or special f/x artists Peter Albiez and Lance Anderson.
  • Archival interviews with director Wes Craven. 
  • Deleted & Extended scenes
  • BD-ROM content: The original novel of Friend that the film is based on. 
  • Poster & Stills gallery
  • Theatrical trailer 

Kristy Swanson newly back from the dead in DEADLY FRIEND.
Makeup around eyes = killer cyborg.
 
DEADLY FRIEND was Wes Craven's first studio film, and he shot it during a particularly rough patch in his life: His marriage was ending, he was booted from directing both BEETLEJUICE and SUPERMAN IV (in retrospect, the latter wasn't such a bad thing), and became embroiled in a baseless lawsuit. Even with all that going on in his life, Wes so badly wanted to direct a non-Horror film which is why he leaped at the chance to bring FRIEND (formerly ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, A.I., and eventually DEADLY FRIEND) to the big screen.

But his original vision never had a chance. Wes added a gory nightmare-sequence to the film at the behest of producers, which got great reactions during a test screening. After that, Wes was told to add more blood and guts to the film, and to replace his ending with one that was conceived by Mark Canton, the then President of Warner Bros. Then, after committing to upping the film's body count, Craven had to battle his old nemesis the MPAA, which saddled DEADLY FRIEND with an X-rating until numerous cuts were made. (Yeesh.... what an absolute nightmare the entire ordeal must have been for Wes.)

Back in April 2014, fans of the film started a petition at Change.org (which has sadly only garnered 100 signatures) in an attempt to convince Warner Bros. to release a director's cut. Needless to say, it didn't do the trick. So here's my plea to the powers that be at the WB (and Scream Factory... perhaps?): Please breathe new life into this film! Delivering a director's cut is likely a tall order, so even if you just do a high-def restoration of the theatrical cut with some decent bonus features, I think fans will be somewhat sated. And if you won't do it for the people who adore it, then at least do it to honor the memory of Wes Craven and let his spirit rest a bit more easily. The ball's in your court Warner Bros.



For a more in-depth look what went on behind the scenes during the making of DEADLY FRIEND, I highly recommend the following video from JoBlo.com:



Wednesday, May 26, 2021

Now on Blu-ray Disc: Nothing Will Prepare You For THE HAND!

 

Cover art for Scream Factory's Blu-ray release of THE HAND!
SCREAM FACTORY DELIVERS A STELLAR BLU-RAY RELEASE OF OLIVER STONE'S CLASSIC PSYHOLOGICAL HORROR TALE!


Initially available on a stand-alone DVD from Warner Bros. (and a 4-film set featuring DEADLY FRIEND, EYES OF A STRANGER, and SOMEONE IS WATCHING ME), Scream Factory gives THE HAND a much-needed upgrade with an all-new 2K scan of the interpositive, plus multiple new cast & crew interviews! I've honestly missed out on seeing this one myself (seems like it'd go well with IDLE HANDS or DEMONOID!), so I'll definitely be picking this title up at some point! Never heard of it or on the fence about adding this disc to your collection? Then let's take a closer look at THE HAND, shall we Vault Dwellers?

Synopsis: A gifted cartoonist's life comes apart at the seams when his drawing hand is accidentally severed. Slowly, painfully, he tries to adjust ... but a terrifying evil creeps into his consciousness. And one by one, the people who stand in his way begin to die. Written and directed by Academy Award winner Oliver Stone, this spellbinder showcases a vivid central performance by Michael Caine and wonderfully ghoulish special effects by veteran macabre master Carlo Rambaldi. Stone called for more than 30 different hands to be designed, all used in different – and fantastically horrific ways.


Disc Specs:
Rated R | Color | 104 minutes | Region A
Video - 1080p Widescreen (1.85:1)
Audio - English DTS-Master Audio 2.0


Extras:

  • NEW! 2K Scan Of The Interpositive!
  • NEW! Interview With Director Oliver Stone!
  • NEW! Interview With Actor Bruce McGill!
  • NEW! Interview With Actress Andrea Marcovicci!
  • NEW! Interview With Producer Edward R. Pressman And Actress Annie McEnroe Pressman!
  • Audio Commentary With Director Oliver Stone
  • Theatrical Trailer

Scream Factory's new release of THE HAND is currently available wherever Blu-ray discs are sold, and should cost between $25 - $28! Grab yourself a copy today from AMAZON, BULL MOOSE, DIABOLIK DVD, or directly from SHOUT! FACTORY.



Monday, May 24, 2021

Joe Dante's EXPLORERS Has Finally Arrived on Blu-ray Disc!

 

Cover art for Shout Select's new Blu-ray of Joe Dante's EXPLORERS!
SHOUT SELECT KNOCKS A TITLE OFF OF MY BUCKET LIST WITH THEIR NEW BLU-RAY RELEASE OF THIS JOE DANTE CLASSIC!

Everyone seems to openly give their love to Joe Dante's GREMLINS, THE HOWLING, PIRANHA, or THE 'BURBS, while his kid-centric sci-fi film EXPLORERS goes largely unmentioned. (And if I'm wrong about that well.... good!) So it brings me great joy in sharing this news Vault Dwellers: As of May 25th, EXPLORERS is available on Blu-ray disc! Initially only available on DVD from Paramount, the movie makes its HD debut with two different cuts (sadly neither is a director's cut), deleted scenes, new making-of featurette, & more! If you're excited as I am to own this Collector's Edition release, then read on!

Synopsis: The visionary dreams of three curious and adventuresome young boys become an exciting reality in Explorers, the action-fantasy from acclaimed director Joe Dante, who combines keen humor, warmth and fantasy with unexpected twists.

In their makeshift laboratory, the boys use an amazing discovery and their ingenuity to build their own spaceship and launch themselves on a fantastic interplanetary journey. A galaxy of adventure for the whole family, EXPLORERS stars a young River Phoenix (STAND BY ME, SNEAKERS) and Ethan Hawke (TRAINING DAY, REALITY BITES).

Disc Specs:
Rated PG | Color | 106 & 109 minutes | Region A
Video - 1080p Widescreen (1.85:1)
Audio - English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1

Extras:

  • Includes The Home Video & Theatrical Cuts Of The Film!
  • NEW! A Science Fiction Fairy Tale: The Story Of Explorers – Featuring New Interviews With Director Joe Dante, Screenwriter Eric Luke, Star Ethan Hawke, And More! (65 min.)
  • NEW! Deleted Scenes With Optional Commentary By Joe Dante!
  • NEW! Interviews With Cinematographer John Hora And Editor Tina Hirsch!
  • Theatrical Trailer

As of tomorrow (May 25th) Shout Select's Collector's Edition of EXPLORERS will be available, wherever Blu-ray discs are sold, and should cost between $23 - $29. Treat yourself and relive the magic of this film by picking up a copy today from AMAZON, BULL MOOSE, DIABOLIK DVD, or directly from SHOUT! FACTORY. (Note: The collectible poster that Shout! was offering through their site when you ordered this movie is officially OUT OF STOCK.)



Wednesday, March 10, 2021

WHICH TEAM ARE YOU ON?! - ENTER NOW TO WIN A GODZILLA VS. KONG PRIZE PACK!

UPDATE (04/02/2021): Our GODZILLA VS. KONG-TEST ended on March 31st! The three randomly selected winners of the KING KONG VS. GODZILLA/SONS OF KONG set prize packs were Rod Chavez, Marcos Carway, and Richard Cabe! Congrats to our trio of champions - stay tuned for more cool giveaways down the road!

To celebrate the upcoming release of Adam Wingard's GODZILLA VS. KONG (in theaters and available to stream on HBO Max on March 25th!), yours truly is having a cool giveaway! Three lucky Vault Dwellers will win a copy of the original 1962 throwdown, KING KONG VS. GODZILLA, as well as a 10-Film "SONS OF KONG" DVD set which features THE APE, BELA LUGOSI MEETS A BROOKLYN GORILLA, THE GORILLA, THE APE MAN, BRIDE OF THE GORILLA, THE SAVAGE GIRL, THE WHITE GORILLA, LAW OF THE JUNGLE, WHITE PONGO, and NABONGA! The best part? It's super easy to enter!

GODZILLA VS. KONG GIVEAWAY PRIZES!
PLEASE NOTE: MY SON'S TOYS & MY "DESTROY ALL MONSTERS" POSTER ARE NOT PART OF THE GIVEAWAY!

Which Team are YOU on? - Drop us an e-mail at vault_master[at]bmoviefilmvault[dot]com with either TEAM GODZILLA or TEAM KONG in the subject line - please include your full name (no aliases please) in the body of the e-mail! There is only ONE entry per person BUT you can earn additional entries by following The Vault on our various social media platforms! If you follow/subscribe to us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Letterboxd, Patreon, Reddit, or YouTube, send us some proof (e.g. screenshots) in your e-mail entry to increase your chances of winning!

Important but boring information: This giveaway is only open to folks living in the continental U.S. (sorry Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Guam, and rest of the world)! Three winners will be chosen at random and announced on March 31st of this year, and have a full week to respond with their mailing address. If you do not get back to us, we will choose another victor in your place. Prizes will be shipped via USPS and you will be supplied with a tracking number! If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to ask!

Thanks ahead of time for taking part in this giveaway everyone and may the biggest Godzilla or King Kong fan win! And don't forget to mark March 25th on your calendars for the biggest, most anticipated rematch in cinematic history!

Monday, March 1, 2021

STOCK YOUR VAULT: New DVDs & Blu-rays for 02/23/2021!

 

The B-Movie News Vault's STOCK YOUR VAULT Logo!

Vault Master's Pick of the Week for 02/23/2021 is Lionsgate's Blu-ray release of WRONG TURN (2021)!
Vault Master's Pick of the Week!
Greetings fellow collectors and welcome to another (late) installment of the News Vault's STOCK YOUR VAULT column! While February 2021 didn't hold too many surprises for us, its final week does have some titles worth noting. Let's take a closer look!

Scream Factory brought IFC Midnight's CENTIGRADE to DVD & Blu-ray, Media Blasters gives HAKAIDER a re-release, Warner Archive brings PUMP UP THE VOLUME to Blu-ray for the first time, and Darkside Releasing gave MOTORPSYCHO MANIACS (aka SEX TERRORISTS ON WHEELS) its Blu-ray debut!

Arrow Video's final release of the month is SHOGUN'S JOY OF TORTURE (their steelbook of AN AMERICAN WEREWOLF IN LONDON got pushed to the end of March) and Severin Films drops three new titles on Blu-ray, namely THE ATTIC EXPEDITIONS, CASTLE OF THE CREEPING FLESH, and PLAGUE TOWN!

Imprint just released a slew of Region Free titles this past Tuesday, including SORRY, WRONG NUMBER, WATERLOO, I MARRIED A MONSTER FROM OUTER SPACE, the original WAR OF THE WORLDS, and THE DUELISTS, Umbrella Entertainment added BAD BOY BUBBY to their Beyond Genres label, and Lionsgate just dropped their WRONG TURN reboot (which I chose as my pick of the week because... sure, why not?) which comes with Director's commentary, trailer, deleted & extended scenes, and making-of-featurette!

To peep out the full roster of this week's new DVD, Blu-ray, and 4K releases, continue scrolling Vault Dwellers!


NEW TO DVD & BLU-RAY
Centigrade (Scream Factory)
Hakaider (Hyper Destroyer Edition - Media Blasters)
An Horror Anthology
John Hughes 5-Movie Collection
Late Fee (Unrated)
Puppet Princess
Pure Hearted Girl Etcetera
Rage (Gravitas Ventures)
Wrong Turn (2021 - Lionsgate)


NEW TO BLU-RAY
Acrobunch: The Complete Series (Discotek Media)
The Allnighter (Kino Lorber Studio Classics)
The Attic Expeditions (Severin Films)
Bad Boy Bubby (Beyond Genres Vol. 7 - Umbrella Entertainment)
Brave 10: The Complete Series (Discotek Media)
Castle of the Creeping Flesh (Severin Films)
The Duelists (Imprint - Region 0 Import)
Fairy Tail: Final Season - Part 26
The Full Treatment (aka Stop Me Before I Kill - Indicator)
I Married a Monster From Outer Space (Imprint - Region 0 Import)
Konosuba! 2: The Complete Second Season & OVA
Lupin the 3rd: The Columbus Files
Motorpsycho Maniacs (aka Sex Terrorists of Wheels - Darkside Releasing)
The New Adventures of Pippi Longstocking (Sony Pictures)
Nightbeast (Troma)
Nina of the Woods
Plague Town (Severin Films)
Pump Up the Volume (Warner Archive Collection)
Red Woods
Shogun's Joy of Torture (Arrow Video)
The Snorkel (Indicator)
Sorry, Wrong Number (Imprint - Region 0 Import)
Star Trek: The Next Generation - Season One
To Tokyo
Venus Wars
The War of the Worlds (Imprint - Region 0 Import)
Waterloo (Imprint - Region 0 Import)


NEW TO DVD
The Beast Within
Binding Souls
College Pranks
The Demon Inside
Demon Mother
From Dusk Till Dawn Trilogy
The Jungle Jim Movie Collection 3 (Umbrella Entertainment)
Kecksburg
Legion of the Night
Lord of Tears
Naked Woman Murdered in the Park
Only the Good Parts
The Phoenix Project
Saga (Bayview Films)
Scooby-Doo: The Sword and the Scoob
Shriek Pack: Flesh for the Beast & Dead Riot
Unleashed (Bayview Films)