Land Of Doom (1986) {Blu-ray Review}

In 1979 one film changed the face of cinema, that film was Mad Max. After Mel Gibson's portrayal of the apocalyptic hero, producers saw the opportunity to cash in on the post apocalyptic film hype. Mad Max was made for minimal cost and made a great profit.

Than just a short 7 years after that film debuted in 1986 Peter Maris decided to try his luck by co-producing and directing Land Of Doom. Now the good folks at Scorpion Releasing are giving this film a Blu-ray release cult movie fans have no doubt been waiting for,

After a nuclear holocaust most of Earth's population and environment has been destroyed. Those who survived this holocaust live in caves. The world is a wasteland ruled by gangs of marauders. But survivors, Harmony (Deborah Rennard, Dallas) and Anderson (Garrick Dowhen. Appointment with Fear) don't want this kind of life so they go in search of a famed peaceful city called Blue Lake. However, the maniacal Slater (Daniel Radell, Ministry of Vengeance, Viper), Anderson's rival, wants them dead.

Land of Doom was decades ahead of it's time. As Harmony is a strong protagonist. Long before the female empowerment movement. Harmony would take nothing from a man trying to overlord over her. She took the lead. 

  

Land of Doom is gritty and raw. Not as action packed as Mad Max this film relies more on dialogue, drama and horrors of the apocalypse to convey the story. The music drives the motorcycle chases, having the viewer on the edge of their seats. But the real star of this film is the Turkish locations and set used in this film give the film a reality that is truly undeniable.

This cult classic has been transferred in 1080p and is presented in 1.85:1 aspect ratio. The soundtrack is a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. There is also English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing. There is no details on whether this film has been restored, but if it hasn't I would be shocked cause this film looks crisp and clean. 

Now a gorgeous transfer is not all that is included in this Blu-ray release. Scorpion Releasing added a couple cool bonuses features to this Blu-ray. Take a look at what is included.

* On-camera interview with actress Deborah Rennard
   In this interview she recalls the shoot, actors in this film, the director, and even thoughts on how her character was ahead of it's time. A very good interview.

* Original Trailer

This film is a pretty good post apocalyptic thriller. But fans that are looking for the non stop action thrill ride of such films, are going to be a bit disappointed. While not overtly violent, there is a good chuck of profanity. So viewer discretion advised.

If you love post apocalyptic films of the 1980s the new Blu-ray of Land of Doom will be a release you will want to add to your collection. Head over to Amazon and order your copy today. 


Out of 4 film reels (4 being the best) Scorpion Releasing Blu-ray release of Land of Doom receives...