Today marks the birthdate of the Maestro himself, Lucio Fulci, and what better way than to celebrate the life of one of Italy's most beloved filmmakers than by reviewing one of his greatest films...'City Of The Living Dead'! Blue Underground breathes new life into this classic horror film with a High Definition transfer plus all new special features, making this Von Ningue's DVD/Blu-ray 'Pick Of The Month'!
'City Of The Living Dead'(1980), (a.k.a. 'The Gates Of Hell'), is the second entry into Fulci's popular "dead" trilogy. Similar to his earlier "zombie" outing, this film centers around a priest, who by hanging himself, opens up the gates of Hell, causing a maelstrom of violent proportions! Mary Woodhouse (played by the lovely Catriona MacColl), a young psychic who, through a seance, witnesses the priest's hanging and the outcome of what's to come. Enter Peter Bell (played by the late, great Christopher George), a journalist who, fascinated with the mysteries surrounding Mary and her vision, decides to investigate further by tagging along with her all the way to Dunwich. Upon their arrival in the small New England town, they meet Gerry (played by Carlo De Mejo), a psychiatrist, and Sandra (played by the lovely Janet Agren), one of his patients, who have both been witness to the strange goings-on. Together, they race to close the gates of Hell before All Saints Day!
Done in traditional Lucio Fulci style, 'City Of The Living Dead' gives the audience what they want to see...blood, guts, and plenty of gore! Following up his earlier on-screen exploits, Fulci takes it to the next level! This time around, Fulci pulls out all the stops when he drills poor Bob (played by none other than Italy's "Whipping Boy" himself...Giovanni Lombardo Radice) through the head! I've seen this movie quite a few times now, and I've gotta admit...that particular scene still makes me cringe. Whether you're a newbie to his works or a veteran like myself, you'll be squirming in your seat...I guarantee it!
Luckily, Blue Underground has added some bonus features to compliment their Special Edition of the film, including a thirty-minute "Making Of" documentary, which features interviews with most of the principal film crew as well as star Catriona MacColl and co-star and filmmaker Michele Soavi. The Blu-ray disc also features some extra featurettes that weren't available on the standard DVD version...my sole purpose for jumping into the High Definition format! Rounding out the Blu-ray disc is a cool poster and still gallery, courtesy of Mike Baronas and Paura Productions, as well as the original theatrical trailers and radio spots...maggots not included!
Personally, this is the best time that I've ever had watching this film on the home video format. The picture quality looks rather sharp and sounds crystal clear for being thirty years old. Honestly, I was quite leary after seeing what Paramount Pictures had done with their High Definition transfer of 'Friday The 13th Part 3', which was quite grainy, to say the least! Have no fear...the picture is clear, thanks to the folks over at Blue Underground! If you're still sitting on the fence about whether or not to jump into the High Definition pool, trust me...the waters fine!
My rating: 5 stars out of 5 stars
For more information on Lucio Fulci's 'City Of The Living Dead', pick up a copy of the May/June 2010 issue of HorrorHound, where you'll find a spread on the film in a 30th Anniversary Retrospective. Check it out!
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