DVD Picture:
The anamorphically enhanced DVD (framed at 1.85:1) exhibits images which were shot in 16mm, so grain is evident from the source. Still, colors are generally well balanced, with nicely rendered fleshtones, but slightly weak blacks. Overall, the picture is generally soft. Contrast seems a bit low at times, but and visual information tends to get lost in the undefined darker scenes. There is a bit of pixelization noticed, that can create unstable details. Regardless, the tension mounts in the mostly dark picture, which must be viewed in a completely blackened room for the full effect of this fun horror classic. (Suzanne Hodges)
Soundtrack:
The DVD soundtracks are the result of a remarkable remastering effort, utilizing the multichannel palette to the film's storytelling advantage. Atmospheric effects and music, very often of an eerie, suspenseful nature, project an effective, holosonic presence throughout the listening space. The back surround plays an effective role in expanding the dimensional scope in the surrounds, as well as providing for some rather unusual directivity. The restoration of the vintage audio is quite remarkable, albeit exhibiting the original recording's dated sonic characteristics. Deep bass content, some it well below 50 Hz, has been incorporated as part of the repurposing, along with some .1 LFE activity. Otherwise, the low-end presence is rather modest. The DTS-ES
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