Freaks (Unrated, 1932) - One of the most controversial and legendary films ever
produced receives a fine digital transfer from Warner Home Entertainment.
Released by MGM in the wake of the early horror film cycle, Freaks, directed by
longtime Lon Chaney collaborator Tod Browning, is an unflinching story set in a
circus sideshow.
The movie features actual sideshow professionals: a living torso, midgets, a
bearded lady, a human skeleton.
The DVD features a new documentary about the making of the movie, featuring
author and horror film expert David Skal, who wrote a biography about Browning,
and who also provides a very interesting commentary track.
Other extras include three alternative endings and a prologue issued during the
film's reissue.
Warner's also has released a group of more modern horror films including a
double-feature British import, Village of the Damned and Children of the Damned;
The Bad Seed, which features commentary by the film's star, Patty McCormick, as
well as a documentary on the making of the film and a "Conversation with Patty
McCormick," in which she reminisces about making the movie; and, finally, Dead
Ringer, with Bette Davis in a dual role as twin sisters. The real horror of this film is the
declining Davis' hammy performance.
Finally, a more contemporary vampire story comes to DVD with the release of a
two-disc special edition of The Lost Boys, starring Kiefer Sutherland, Jason Patric
and the Coreys - Haim and Feldman.
The set is loaded with extras, including a commentary track by director Joel
Schumacher, a retrospective documentary and other features.
If horror films are you meat, Warner's has a diabolical meal to offer you.
Bob Bloom is the film critic at the Journal and Courier in Lafayette, Ind. He can be
reached by e-mail at bbloom@journalandcourier.com or at bob@bloomink.com.
Bloom's reviews also can be found at the Journal and Courier Web site:
www.jconline.com
Other reviews by Bloom can be found at the Rottentomatoes Web site:
www.rottentomatoes.com or at the Internet Movie Database Web site:
www.imdb.com/M/reviews_by?Bob+Bloom
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