AMERICAN HORROR PROJECT REVIEWED
“American Horror Project: Vol. 1” is the kind of release that we all should be supporting. Going around the country, Arrow has found the best surviving elements of underground horror. The result plays to horror and suspense staples, but this is an amazing history of film history. There is so much that goes ignored, because movie fans glide among the superficial. Plus, modern studios aren’t doing much to foster a deep history of this material.
So, what’s the answer? We have three films among a possible 50 to tackle and I can’t say that these opening three are crowd winners. However, they are artistic triumphs. The cinematography is on-point and the set design evokes the best of American indie cinema. If you’re expecting direct gore, you’re out of luck. What matters is that you’re seeing low budget horror cut with the sensibilities of 1970s mavericks. I can’t be alone in thinking that’s amazing.
Dean Cundey’s work on “The Witch Who Came From the Sea” is the real selling point of the set. Watching a master cinematographer makes his opening bow is stunning. Especially when he keeps nailing so many shots on a shoe string budget. Take a look at that last screen shot to see my point of reference. If you’ve never seen the film, it’s practically an American supernatural. It would make an excellent double feature with Fulci’s “The Psychic”.
SPECIAL FEATURES
- Limited Edition booklet
- Introductions
- Isolated Score
- Commentaries
- Interviews
- Stills Gallery
- Outtakes
- 4 Peace Spots
- Trailers and TV Spots
- Short Films
- BD/DVD Rom content
A/V QUALITY STATS
- 2.35:1 1080p transfer
- 1.85:1 1080p transfer
- LPCM 1.0 Mono
RELEASE DATE: 2/23/16
