Burnt Offerings (1976) KL Studio Classics Blu-ray Review

There have been many haunted house films during the history of cinema. We have seen haunting classics like The Uninvited, The Changeling and Poltergeist. But in the 1970s TV director Dan Curtis (known for creating the tv soap opera Dark Shadows) was given the opportunity to director a feature film and Burnt Offerings was born.

The film is closing in on its 50-year anniversary. It is so hard to believe. Now for the 48th anniversary of the film initial release KL Studio Classics has given this horror film a Blu-ray release.

Marian (Karen Black) and Ben (Oliver Reed) find it hard to believe that for only $900 they've rented a sprawling country mansion for the entire summer. But as they settle into their isolated estate with their son (Lee Montgomery, Ben) and Ben's aunt (Bette Davis), they find themselves surrounded by an evil, hypnotic living presence that feeds on torture, fear and murder.

I remember watching this film as a young teenager and literally being royally creeped out by this film. It has stayed with me all these years and now watching it again so many years later, I must say it still creeps me out. 

Burnt Offerings is a slow burn horror film. Now most film fans in this generation don't have the patience to sit and wait for the ending. But I really enjoy these kinds of films. The acting is stellar here. From the lead of Black and Reed to the legendary Bette Davis and even seeing Burgess Meredith, seeing him in a film is always a plus.

Burnt Offerings have been transferred to Blu-ray in 1080p in 1.85:1 aspect ratio. The audio is a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. On the Blu-ray insert it says there is English subtitles, however on this disc that option is not available. 

This film transfer brings nice colors and flesh tones. The picture may not be as sharp as some my like. But probably the biggest drawback from this transfer is there is some black specks found in certain parts of the film. But the specks are minor and shouldn't take away from the viewing pleasure of this horror film. But KL Studio Classics loaded up this disc with some really cool bonus features take a look at what is included.

* Audio Commentary with Director/Co-Writer/Producer Dan Curtis, Actress Karen Black, and Co-Screenwriter William F. Nolan
* Audio Commentary by Film Historian Richard Harland Smith
* Interview with Actor Anthony James
* Interview with Screenwriter William F. Nolan
* Interview with Actor Lee Montgomery
* TRAILERS FROM HELL with Steve Senski
* Image Gallery
* Animated Footage of Images
*Theatrical Trailer

With not one but two fascinating audio commentaries, great interviews and more. Kino Lorber really went above and beyond here to make this Blu-ray disc something special for 70s horror movie fans. 

If you love slow burn horror films, Bette Davis horror performances or 70s films your collection is not complete without Burnt Offerings. Head over to Amazon and order your copy today!

 Out of 4 film reels (4 being the best) Burnt Offerings Blu-ray recieves.....