Jack London had started a new novel entitled "The Assassination Bureau, Ltd" but sadly gave up on it before he finished it. But crime writer Robert L. Fish stepped in and finished the novel in 1963. Than 6 years later in 1969 a star studded cast would bring this story to life on the silver screen. Now Arrow Video is releasing this film to Blu-ray.
In 1900's a feisty journalist and women’s rights campaigner Sonia Winter (Diana Rigg) uncovers the headquarters of the Assassination Bureau Limited, a clandestine enterprise that has existed for decades by bumping off the rich and powerful – but only if there’s a good moral reason for it – she sets on a path of putting an end to its activities. Bankrolled by her press baron boss, Lord Bostwick (Telly Savalas), she commissions the organization to undertake the assassination of its very own chairman, Ivan Dragomiloff (Oliver Reed). Being the gentleman that he is, Dragomiloff responds to the assignment with glee, challenging his fellow board members to complete the contract. Only they’ll have to catch him first.
The premise of the film is silly, but that is what makes it so much fun. And talk about an all-star cast! Simply amazing! Along with this amazing lead actors the supporting cast is first-class as well. The cast includes, Curd Jurgens (The Enemy Below), Philippe Noiret (Cinema Paradiso), Beryl Reid (The Killing of Sister George), Clive Revill (The Legend of Hell House), and George Coulouris (Citizen Kane). But of course to me the stand out here is seeing Diana Rigg starring in just her second film (the first being "A Midsummer Night's Dream") after finishing up her time of the iconic British Adventure show entitled "The Avengers".
Arrow Video has transferred The Assassination Bureau on Blu-ray in 1080p. It is presented in 1.85:1 aspect ratio The audio is the original lossless English mono audio. Paramount Pictures joined forces with Arrow Video to bring us a new restoration.
The film restoration looks nice. The colors are vibrant and there is just minor specks of dirt in the picture. Most viewers won't even notice imperfections. The audio however is clear and clean, with no signs of hiss or pops. But a nice restoration is not all that this release has going for it. Like all Arrow Video releases they loaded some nice bonus features.
* Brand new audio commentary with authors Sean Hogan and Kim Newman
* Right Film, Wrong Time, a 30-minute appreciation by critic, broadcaster and cultural historian Matthew Sweet
* Original trailer
* Image gallery
* Reversible sleeve featuring two original artwork choices
As a teenager I watched The Emma Peel Avengers series on DVD and had such a crush on Diana Rigg. So anytime I can see her it always takes me back to my teenage years. When a film can make you feel like a kid again, that is always a huge plus, and The Assassination Bureau did that for me!
So if you are a fan of the absurd comedy adventures, The Assassination Bureau is one Blu-ray that would make a great addition to your Blu-ray collection. Head over to Amazon and pre-order your copy today.
Out of Four Film Reels Sets (Four Being the Best) Arrow Video's's Blu-ray release The Assassination Bureau receives...
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