“All Quiet on the Western Front” was a 1979 TV movie that got a theatrical release in Europe. ITV and Universal did that a lot in the era, but I see no reason why this couldn’t have been a theatrical release. Sure, Richard Thomas makes for a terrible German, but the Warfare and high drama were top notch. Ernest Borgnine and Ian Holm shine in supporting roles that help to relay the timeless story for those that might find the 1930 version hard to process.
For being a TV drama, the film plays out some horrific scenes. Rats eating bodies, people getting shot and the melodrama was turned down often. I think that if the violence would’ve been raised, it might have found a theatrical audience. For those that are curious, you’re getting the Uncut European Theatrical version on this release. Honestly, there’s no reason to hunt down the American TV cut after this.
The Blu-Ray comes with a trailer and a photo gallery as the special features. The A/V Quality is stunning for such an older film. The 1080p transfer pops like I had never seen it before. The DTS-HD mono track is true to its era. In the end, I’d recommend a purchase.
Release Date: 7/14/15