Reviewed by Jason LockardAt the time of this review, it is October and this time of the year is perfect for the suspenseful, thriller films that takes you on a horrific roller coaster. In 1967 Audrey Hepburn starred in Wait Until Dark. The good folks at Warner Archive released this film on restored Blu-ray.
The film starts with photographer Sam Hendrix (Efrem Zimbalist Jr.) who returns home returns. After getting off the plane he is asked to hold on to a doll from a beautiful young woman. Little did he know the doll is stuffed with heroin. Now a group of criminals led by the ruthless psychopath Roat has traced the doll to his home. The only problem Sam goes to the studio leaving his blind wife, Susy (Audrey Hepburn), alone in the apartment. A high stakes game for possession of the fortune in drugs is about to take place who will win? You have to see the film to find out.
Wait Until Dark has a very "Hitchcock" feel to it. The film is very intense and takes you on an emotional roller coaster ride with Suzie as she fights to survive against desperate men. The screenplay was masterfully adapted. The direction Terance Young brings a real claustrophobic feel to the viewing experience.
As for the acting, Audrey Hepburn brings a regal grace to the film with her presence. And as for the supporting cast, Alan Arkin is chilling as Roat, Richard Crenna, always a great character actor is spectacular as Mike Tallman and Jack Weston as Carlino is a perfect addition.
Now for the film's Blu-ray transfer. The film is presented it's original widescreen format and presented in 1080p 1.85:1 aspect ratio. The audio is in DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono. There is also English subtitled for the deaf and hard of hearing. The film looks and sounds so crisp and clear. It looks better than I have ever seen it before. The colors are vibrant and the darkness is so ominous.
Now having the film in stunning HD and beautifully restored is enough to call this must own for me. But Warner Archive went further with this release and added some very cool bonus features. Let's take a look at what is included.
- Take a Look in the Dark (480i; 1.33:1; 8:40): This 2003 featurette includes interviews with Alan Arkin and producer Mel Ferrer. They discuss casting, Arkin's portrayal of Roat and working with Hepburn.
- Theatrical Trailer (1080p; 1.78:1; 2:36): "Audrey Hepburn—the role you're going to remember whenever you're alone."
- Warning Trailer (480i; 1.78:1; 1:08): This is the trailer touting the film's "breath-taking climax, which takes place in almost total darkness on the screen" and warning viewers against lighting up or coming in late.
I am so glad Warner Archive gave this film, an HD release it truly deserves. And what a release it is. I am so glad this film will live on for generations to experience the beauty of Audrey Hepburn, the sinisterness of Alan Arkin and Terence Young tense experience he takes the audience on.
So if your a fan of Audrey Hepburn or good old fashion thrillers, I highly recommend Wait Until Dark and witnessing in HD on Warner Archive Blu-ray is the best way to experience it. Head over to Amazon and get your copy today.
Audiences: Teens & Adults
Offensive Material: Intense Imagery, Mild Violence
Length: 1 Hour 41 Minutes
Genre: Drama, Thriller, Horror
Blu-ray Rating: A
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