Horror fans know John Carpenter films, but John Carpenter did some remakes of classic film including The Thing adapted from the original film The Thing from another world released on Blu-ray from Warner Archive. Read the review of that release here. And The Village of the Damned also released on Blu-ray from Warner Archive. This is going to be our subject for this review the 1960's Village film.
In the peaceful little village of Midwich the inhabitants fall into a mysterious and unexplained sleep for several hours. Seems like everything is OK just a nice little nap. That is until all the women of child-bearing age turn out to be pregnant. Stranger still all of the children are all born at the same time. As the children grow they all seem to have the same characteristics white-blonde hair and glowing eyes.
Even more disturbing is that thew children seem to be able to read minds. And speak not as children, but as mature adults and even more disturbing yet they are cold-heated. With no sense of conscious or concern for human life. George Zellaby realizing that the children have a diabolically plan knows something must be done before it is too late. Setting up a face-off between him and his son David and the other children.
These old black and white horror films really have a dark moodiness to them that really seem to creep you. I have watched Carpenter's remake and while it is good this one brings the creepy level off the charts. George Sanders does a remarkable job as the protagonist. The supporting cast is amazing as well. And the children, just great casting. The film runs at a very fast 77 minutes and is so fast paced that it is like a white knuckle roller coaster ride.
Now for the Warner Archive blu-ray release. The film is presented in its 1080p High Definition 1.78:1 aspect ratio. The Audio is DTS-HD Master Audio English 2.0 Mono. There is also English Subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing. I have to say I was very impressed with this Blu-ray transfer. It has been cleaned up and there is no signs of blemishes in the picture and the audio is crystal clear. I don't think the film has ever looked better than it does on this release.
As for the Blu-ray bonus features. We get a Audio commentary with Chronicle of Terror: Silent Screams author Steve Haberman. There is also the original theatrical trailer. Also it is so cool to see the original poster art and the Blu-ray artwork. Nice touch. I love that.
So if your a fan of classic horror this one is for you. And perhaps if your a fan of John Carpenter's remake why not treat yourself to the original and supirior version of this story with 1960's Village of the Damned. Pick up a copy of this film by heading over to WBShop.com or Amazon.com you won't be disappointed.
Moral Rating: Scary images
Audience: Teens and Adults
Genre: scifi, horror
Length: 77 minutes
Blu-ray Rating: A
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