When you think of classic horror film icons several names come to mind. On the Mount Rushmore of horror icons almost everyone would have on their list Boris Karloff! It all started with his amazing role as the Frankenstein monster in the James Whale film. Out of that one role he would gain many more iconic roles.
Val Lewton produced three films with Boris Karloff as the star the second of the three was 1945's Isle of the Dead. Warner Archive Collection knows that film fans love their classic horror, so they have given this Boris Karloff vehicle a Blu-ray release this film so richly deserves.
Gen. Nikolas Pherides (Boris Karloff) takes leave from the 1912 Balkan War to visit a small island in Greece, where his wife is buried. While he is there, a plague breaks out, he along with an American reporter and other travelers are forced to stay when quarantine is declared. As bad as the plague and quarantine is there may just be a vampire to deal with as well.
In the early days of horror films were mysterious. They build tension to the satisfying conclusion. Isle of the Dead is just that type of film. The film seems claustrophobic at times which adds to the tension. The script is well written and Boris Karloff is gold in this role as in anything he did. The cinematography is perfect!
Isle of the Dead makes it's Blu-ray debut in stunning fashion. The new 4K restoration from the original nitrate camera negative is mind blowing! As for the audio it is English 2.0 Mono DTS-HD MA it is crystal clear. There is no signs hiss or pops. This restoration is so amazing! If you didn't know any better you would swear it was produced in 2021.
As for bonus features Warner Archive added English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing. The original theatrical trailer with Spanish subtitles. And a very insightful commentary by screenwriter and film historian Dr. Steve Haberman.
I have to say Warner Archive has done it again! They have made another Blu-ray release that is an absolute must own for classic horror fans and for cinephiles alike. It is a gorgeous looking restoration and a horror crown gem of a Blu-ray.
So if you are as much of a fan of Boris Karloff as I am Isle of the Dead on Blu-ray from Warner Archive is an absolute must own! They have made one amazing release and I can not recommend it enough! Head over to Amazon.com and order your copy today.
Out of 4 Film Reels (4 Being the Best) Warner Archive's Blu-ray of Isle of the Dead receives...
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