The Dark (1979) {MVD Rewind DVD Review}

Reviewed By Jason Lockard

70s Horror has a special place in the hearts and minds of some movie fans. These films have gains cult classic status. The good folks and MVD Visual under the label MVD Rewind Collection are releasing these cult horror films to home video.

Now the latest to gain this home video release is 1979s The Dark. The interesting thing about this film is that it was originally to be directed by Tobe Hooper. but because he fell behind schedule he was replaced by John Cardos.

The film follows a a writer Roy Warner (William Devane) who take a personal interest in the case of killings and mutilations that are going on in the city at night-time. But he is not the only one on the case there is a TV reporter Zoe Owens (Cathy Lee Crosby) and police detective Dave Mooney (Richard Jaeckel),all looking for answers to the truth behind the murders. But the truth may be a little more out of this world than they expected.

The Dark truly is late 70s horror cinema personified. Campy with fake scares, weird music and less than believable special effects. But that doesn't mean it is not fun to watch. It is off the wall fun. And the supporting cast makes it so much better. Added into the mix is Keenan Wynn, Biff Elliot (PT 109), and Casey Kaseem.

It should be noted that this film is rated R, but that is a bit harsh. There is no nudity, very little adult language and the violence in comparison to this day and age is mild. There is a couple of racial slurs that are thrown around. So that is something to take note of.

The film is presented in widescreen format in 2.35:1 aspect ratio and the audio is a Dolby digital 2.0. I have to say this print from MVD Rewind Collection is a beautiful one. There is no signs of damage to the picture. The colors are rich and the audio is clear. This is one amazing looking transfer.

As for bonus features there is English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing and the very cool Original Theatrical Trailer. I always love it when the trailer is included. I am a sucker for trailers.

So while The Dark may not be the great scifi/horror film ever made cult movie fans are going to love having this film in their collection. I highly recommend the MVD Rewind Collection DVD for those who love those 70s horror films.

You can add The Dark to your horror movie collection on DVD, by heading over to Amazon.com and ordering your copy today.


Check out the Trailer Here:

Out of 4 Film Reels (4 Being the Best) MVD Rewind Collection's DVD of The Dark receives...