Creature from Black Lake (1976) { Synapse films Blu-ray Review}

In the 1970s and 80s there were many low budget horror films that have over the years gained cult status. The good folks at Synapse films have been giving this cult classics Blu-ray releases that physical media fans crave so much. One such film was The Kindred.   

Now it is time for another cult classic to receives the Blu-ray treatment from Synapse Films. This time it is 1976's horror film Creature from Black Lake featuring western legend Jack Elam to shine in high definition.

Two college students Pahoo (Dennis Fimple, House of 1,000 Corpses) and Rives (John David Carson, Empire of the Ants) travel to the Louisiana swamp investigate a supposed bayou bigfoot. But on the way to find the creature, they run into Louisiana swamp residents Joe Canton (Jack Elam, Support Your Local Sheriff, Support your local Gunfighter) and Grandpaw Bridges (Dub Taylor, You can't take it with you).

Creature from Black Lake is an entertaining creature feature. Jack Elam and Dub Taylor stand out among the rest, as they do in any film they apper in. Now being a low budget creature feature director Joy Houck, Jr. uses the suspense to build tension to the end when the creature finally shows himself. This is classic horror formula, and it works so well. 

Creature from Black Lake debuts on Blu-ray. Synapse Films have been transferred this film in 1080p in 2.35:1 aspect ratio. The audio is a  DTS-HD MA English 2.0 Mono. It features a brand new Brand-new 4K restoration from the original 35mm camera negative. There is also English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing. 

This new 4K restoration is so awesome! The colors pop off the screen and the picture is sharp as a tack. It is great to see this film in 2.35:1 aspect ratio, as all other releases have been panned and scanned at 1.33:1. There was also a DVD that reframed this film in 1.85:1. But never has it been seen in home video in this detail. So great! Also Synapse films have added some very cool bonus features. Take a look at what is included.

* Audio commentary with author/filmmaker Michael Gingold and film historian Chris Poggiali

* SWAMP STORIES: All-new featurette with Director of Photography Dean Cundey

* Original theatrical trailer and radio spot

Synapse Films have produced a Blu-ray that is something extremely special. With the amazing 4K restoration, presentation in 2.35:1 aspect ratio instead of a horrible pan and scan. And insightful audio commentary, feature and trailer and spots. This blows any of the other release out of the swamp water. 

So if you love cult horror films from the 1970s. I highly suggest adding this new Blu-ray release from Synapse Films. Head over to Amazon and order your copy today.


Out of 4 Film Reels (4 Being the Best) Synapse Films Blu-ray of Creature from Black Lake receives...