Giant from the Unknown (Blu-ray Review)

Reviewed By Jason Lockard

In the 1950s and 60s sci-fi horror B-Movies were all the rage. Teens loved to go to the theaters or drive-ins and watch young people fight monsters and creatures from outer space. It was their favorite form of entertainment, thus the reason there are so many B-Movies from the 50s and 60s.

One of those cheesy Sci-fi horror films was released in 1958 and was titled Giant from the Unknown. This film was released on DVD before. But now for the first time ever this 50s B-movie has been restored in 4K and is on deluxe Blu-ray from The Film Detective.

The film follows the events of the mountain town Pine Ridge, California. Citizens are worried when there are a series of livestock mutilations in nearby Devil's Crag. Dr. Frederick Cleveland, his daughter Janet and a scientific researcher Wayne Brooks look for ancient artifacts of a giant 500-year-old Spanish conquistador. Bust when a lightning storm brings the giant who was preserved in suspended animation back to life, no one is safe from his rampage.

This film is typical 50s sci-fi horror. From the writing, acting and the make-up created by Jack Pierce, known for his Universal Pictures' classic monster makeup for Boris Karloff's Frankenstein (1931), The Mummy (1932), and Lon Chaney Jr.'s The Wolf Man (1941).

These B-movies were not made to create conversations of deeper issues. These were just made to take audiences on a fun and exciting ride. And I have to say that Giant from the Unknown still to this day accomplishes that goal.

The film has been transferred in 1.85:1 widescreen aspect ratio and in 1080p with DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 Mono track. It was taken from a new 4k scan of the original 35mm negative. In my humble opinion there is just the right amount of film grain and no real damage to the film print at all. The term "in glorious black and white" used to be used. Here the black and white really does look glorious.

Now the amazing restoration would be enough for me to call this a must own. But The Film Detective went above and beyond and added great bonus features in this release. Take a look at what is included.

BONUS FEATURES:

* Audio Commentary with Author/ Historian Tom Weaver and Guests Audio Commentary with co-star Gary Crutcher
* 'YOU'RE A B-MOVIE STAR, CHARLIE BROWN' - An all-new interview actor/screenwriter Gary Crutcher
* 'THE MAN WITH A BADGE: BOB STEELE IN THE 1950'S' - An all-new interview with author/film historian C. Courtney Joyner
* Collector’s booklet with still gallery and liner notes by Tom Weaver
* Original Trailer

As a huge fan of 50s sci-fi horror films this is a great film I am so glad I had the opportunity to add to my collection. I am proud to display this amazing Blu-ray and can't wait to experience the 50s sci-fi goodness over and over again.

If you are a fan of 1950s sci-fi horror films as much as I am. This Blu-ray release from The Film Detective is a must own. Head over to Amazon.com and get your copy today.


Out of 4 Film Reels (4 being the best) Film Detective's Giant from the Unknown Blu-ray receives...