Night of the Blood Monster (1970) (4K Ultra HD/Blu-ray Review)

Night of the Blood Monster (1970) (4K Ultra HD/Blu-ray Review)
Director: Jesús Franco
Starring: Christopher Lee, Maria Schell, Leo Genn
RATED: UR/REGION 0/2:35/2160p/NUMBER OF DISCS 2
AVAILABLE FROM Blue Underground

Christopher Lee (THE WICKER MAN) gives one of his most unforgettable performances as Judge Jeffreys, the infamous 17th Century witchfinder whose unholy obsession with a luscious wench (Maria Rohm of EUGENIE) fuels a jaw-dropping spree of torture, brutality and flesh-ripping perversion. Howard Vernon (SUCCUBUS), Margaret Lee (FIVE GOLDEN DRAGONS), Maria Schell (99 WOMEN) and Oscar® nominee Leo Genn (QUO VADIS) co-star in this landmark epic of sexual violence and sadism, complete with a superb score by Bruno Nicolai (COUNT DRACULA) and directed with spectacularly deviant glee by the one and only Jess Franco (VENUS IN FURS).

“Night of the Blood Monster” is a classic example of Jess Franco’s unique brand of exploitation cinema. Set in a remote castle, the film follows a group of unsuspecting tourists who find themselves trapped by a sadistic vampire and his harem of seductive women. The plot of the film is intriguing, blending elements of horror, erotica, and surrealism. Franco’s direction creates a dark and atmospheric tone, with haunting cinematography that captures the eerie beauty of the castle and its inhabitants. The acting in “Night of the Blood Monster” is a mixed bag. While some performances are surprisingly effective, others come off as wooden and unconvincing. The characters themselves are largely one-dimensional, with little depth or development beyond their archetypal roles.

The production design and special effects in the film are surprisingly impressive, considering the low budget. The sets are elaborate and ornate, adding to the gothic atmosphere of the film. The practical effects, while dated by today’s standards, are still effective in creating moments of gory horror. However, the pacing of “Night of the Blood Monster” is inconsistent, with some scenes dragging on while others feel rushed. The dialogue can also be clunky and overly melodramatic, detracting from the overall impact of the film. If you are just coming to this release for how the movie looks, then I must tell you the naked eye sees no flaws in this one. Blue Underground gives you a great transfer and with the number of commentaries, more reasons to re-watch this one. I would probaby be in need of those reasons to give this one another spin anytime soon. In the end, “Night of the Blood Monster” is a flawed but fascinating piece of cult cinema. Fans of Franco’s work and lovers of vintage horror will find plenty to enjoy in its strange and unsettling world. However, those looking for a polished and coherent narrative may be left wanting more.

Extras

• EXCLUSIVE NEW 4K RESTORATION OF THE FULLY UNCUT VERSION OF THE FILM FROM THE ORIGINAL CAMERA NEGATIVE
• DOLBY VISION/HDR PRESENTATION OF THE FILM
• Audio Commentary #1 with Film Historians Troy Howarth and Nathaniel Thompson
• Audio Commentary #2 with Film Historians Kim Newman and Barry Forshaw
• Audio Commentary #3 with Film Historians David Flint and Adrian Smith
• Bloody Jess – Interviews with Director Jess Franco and Star Christopher Lee
• Judgement Day – Interview with Stephen Thrower, Author of “Murderous Passions: The Delirious Cinema of Jesus Franco”
• In The Shadows – Interviews with Filmmaker Alan Birkinshaw and Author Stephen Thrower on Harry Alan Towers
• Deleted and Alternate Scenes
• Trailers and TV Spot
• Still Galleries
• Audio: English (1.0 DTS-HD MA)
• Subtitles: English SDH, Français, Español
• Limited Edition embossed slipcover and reversible sleeve with alternate artwork (pictured below right) [First Pressing Only]
• REGION-FREE