In 1981 a snake creature feature was released that over the years has gained cult status. The film has a wonderful cast and has been lovingly restored in 4K. Now physical media fans can add a little Venom to their horror collections with this new 4K UltraHD/Blu-ray release from Blue Underground.
Synopsis: It was supposed to be the perfect crime: the sexy maid (Susan George, Stray Dogs), a psychotic chauffeur (Oliver Reed, The Brood) and an international terrorist (Klaus Kinski, Noferatu The Vampyre) kidnap a wealthy ten-year old boy from his elegant London townhouse. But they didn't count on a murdered cop, a desperate hostage siege, and one very unexpected houseguest; a furious Black Mamba, the most lethal and aggressive snake known to nature. Now, terror knows no antidote... and the ultimate in slithering mayhem is Venom.
Venom features a tight script by Robert Carrington based on the novel by Alan Scholefield. And marvelous direction by Piers Haggard. The film features great performances by Reed and George, but Klaus Kinski was made for his role. Then there is the amazing supporting cast, Sterling Hayden (The Killing), Nicol Williamson (Excalibur) and Sarah Miles (Blow-Up).
The film uses the "old dark house" method to bring a claustrophobic feel to the film. Composer Michael Kamen (who wrote the iconic theme of The X-Files) provides a score to the film that adds so much to tenson of this film.
Venom has been transferred to 4K in 2160p and is presented in the original widescreen 1.85:1 aspect ratio. There are three audio options an English Dolby Atmos an English DTS-HD 5.1 and an English DTS-HD 2.0. There is also the option for subtitles in English, French and Spanish.
Venom is not just been thrown on a 4K disc here. Blue Underground has taken the brand-new restoration, scanned in 4k 16-bit from its 35mm in with Dolby Vision HDR and a new Dolby Atmos audio mix. The film looks absolutely stunning. The picture is crisp and clean and the colors pop. The audio is clear as a bell and sounds amazing.
But a gorgeous looking 4K restoration is not all this 2 Disc 4K/Blu-ray set has going for it. Take a look at all the cool bonus features Blue Underground added to this release.
Disc 1 (4K UHD Blu-ray)
* Audio Commentary#1 with director Pier Haggard
* Audio Commentary #2 with Film historian Troy Howarth, Nathaniel Thompson and Eugeno Ercolani
* Trailers
Disc 2: (Blu-ray)
* Audio Commentary #1 with director Pier Haggard
* Audio Commentary #2 with Film historian Troy Howarth, Nathaniel Thompson and Eugeno Ercolani
* Fangs for the Memories - Interview with Editor/Second Unit Director Michael Bradsell
* A Slithery Story - Interview with make-up artist Nick Dudman
* Mamba Memories - Interview with Author & Critic Kim Newman
* Pick Your Poison - Interview with The Dark Side's Allan Bryce
* Trailers
* TV Spots
* Poster & Still
I appreciate that Blue Underground included not just 1 but 2 audio commentaries. This gives the viewer a chance to hear not only the director's thoughts on the film, but also a fan's thoughts as well! And the addition of the interviews are always a welcomed bonus. Finally in the case there is a collectible booklet with essay by Michael Gingold.
I have always been impressed with the quality of Blue Underground's releases. Some of my favorite's would have to be The Final Countdown, Dead and Buried and God Told Me To. I had so much fun checking this release out, I think you can put this one on that short list!
So, if you love creature features as much as I do and love that 80s cinema, Venom will be right in your wheelhouse. And this new 4k/Blu-ray is the perfect way to experience it. Head over to MVD Shop or Amazon and order your copy today and get ready to sink your teeth into the entertainment.
Out of 4 films (4 being the best) the 4k of Venom receives......
 Blue Underground 4K/Blu-ray Review ){kind=link}
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