In the world in which we live now there are many forms of entertainment that have been deemed offensive. But in pre-code Hollywood films were not subject to those type of pushbacks.
One such film series would be Dr. Fu Manchu. Dr. Fu Manchu was a supervillain that was first introduced to the world in a series of books by author Sax Rohmer. A little over a decade after the first novel was published Hollywood would make it's first attempt at bringing this character to the silver screen.
Now the great folks at Kino Lorber under the division KL Studio Classics brings a double feature of the mysterious doctor to Blu-ray.
Our Rating System:
****=Don’t Miss it!
***=Worth a look.
**=An OK way to spend an evening.
*=You haven’t missed anything.
The Mysterious Dr. Fu Manchu (1929 Fu Manchu's wife and child are killed by Allied Troops. Now so enraged by this injustice he vows to avenge their deaths by any means necessary. ***
The Return of Dr. Fu Manchu (1930) The criminal mastermind Fu Manchu still can not let go of the evil that had befallen his family and is bound and determined to seek out more revenge. ***
Warner Oland is tremendous as Dr, Fu Manchu. Shortly after playing the mysterious doctor he would take on the role that he would become known for the rest of his life and that is if the Inspector Charlie Chan in 16 films.
Now Warner Oland is a Swedish-American actor so the portrayal of his an an Asian could be considered politically-incorrect but in a way I think that is a bit harsh. If you can step back from the day in which we live and just immerse yourself in the story You will find these two films are extremely entertaining and not really offensive. As they were made not to make fun, but to be an entertaining piece of cinema and that they are!
Warner Oland does not do this alone. He is joined by some great classic actors and actresses. Including, Jean Arthur (Shane), Neil Hamilton (TV's Batman), O.P. Heggie (Bride of Frankenstein), William Austin (Red Hair), Evelyn Hall (My Best Girl) and Evelyn Selbie (A Night at the Opera).
Now these two films are housed on one Blu-ray disc. More than enough room to breathe. There are presented in 1080p in their original full screen format in 1.20:1 aspect ratio. The soundtrack is a DTS-HD Master Audio English 2.0.
These films have been remastered in 2K and while they may not be quite pristine, there is some signs of damage to the prints. But when you think these films are almost 100 years old. When I take that into consideration I must say these transfers are amazing looking and sound.
Now Kino Lorber gave us two Fu Manchu movies, but that's not all. They added some cool bonus features to this Blu-ray set as well. Take a look at what is included.
* NEW Audio Commentaries by Tim Lucas
* Trailers (No Fu Manchu trailers however)
* Optional English Subtitles
* Slipcover with the same art work as the Blu-ray insert
I must say that the audio commentaries by Tim Lucas are insightful and very entertaining! These make a nice addition to an already entertaining double feature set.
If you are a fan of Pre-Code Hollywood films or Fu Manchu. I would say these brans new 2K scans of these classics will be right up your alley. Head over to Amazon and order your copy today.
Out of 4 film reels (4 being the best) KL Studio Classics Blu-ray release of Fu Manchu Double Feature receives...
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