Phenomena

Anchor Bay | minutes | | | Standard DVD reviewed by: Fusion3600

I'm going to say two words, and then tell you how they relate. Insects and serial killers. Now, even after you read this review, you may not understand how they relate, but come on, horror movies don't need realism, now do they? First, the serial killer portion of the equation. At a boarding academy for young girls, a serial killer is on the rampage, leaving a trail of blood and bodies behind. Now, the insects part. At this same academy is Jennifer Corvino (Jennifer Connelly), a young girl who has a special talent that most girls don't have. And just what is this special power? Well, she can communicate with insects. Yep. Damn, what a weird ass movie. Anyway, she thinks the insects may hold the key to stopping the maniac's killing spree, so she consults the campus insect specialist, Dr. McGregor (Donald Pleasence). Together, these two have to unlock the secrets of the insects, and put an end to the bloody warpath before the killer catches up with Jennifer, and makes her the next victim.

This is what horror is all about, baby. You've got a storyline that has to unfold before your very eyes in order to understand it, you've got excellent gore effects, and you've communications with the insect world. While this movie was released here in the states awhile back on home video as "Creepers," the distributor saw fit to chop the flick up, taking out almost twenty-eight minutes! Yikes! Thankfully, the kind folks at Anchor Bay have issued this horror classic in its complete and uncut state, restoring the hacked scenes into their rightful place. The atmosphere and style of this film are excellent, which helps to set a creepy tone for the film. Myself, I'm creeped out by people talking to insects no matter what. By reading the plot synopsis, you're thinking the storyline is too out there, but this is horror, so suspend your disbelief, and enjoy the finely crafted cinema presented here. I can't imagine a better edition of this movie being available. It has superb video, remastered DDS 5.1 audio, and a wonderful array of goodies. I recommend this disc to all who read this review, with my highest commendation. Love live Anchor Bay!

Phenomena may have an unusual storyline, but man, what a fantastic cast! Ok, so really there are only two names most of you will recognize, but I like the cast, so I might get a little gushing. Anyway, Jennifer Connelly has the lead role, and honor of having mental powers to control bugs. What a sweet role, huh? Connelly (The Rocketeer, Dark City) gives a knock out turn here, especially given the unusual material she's performing with. As far as horror goes, this is one of the finest female performances I've seen. And I've seen my fair share, I assure you. Also making his presence felt is Donald Pleasence, who many of you will remember from the Halloween movies. He turns in his usual watermark turn here, which is of course, very good. The supporting cast includes Fiore Argento (Demons), Elenora Giorgi (Inferno), and Dalila Di Lazzaro (Lady of the Evening).

Phenomena is presented in 1.66:1 non anamorphic widescreen, which looks very good. The movie features several very dark scenes, but the transfer comes through on all counts, with only some minor wear signs showing up to spoil the party. Since the movie focuses on darker tones, the colors are limited to blood and flesh tones for the most part, both of which look natural. Contrast levels look stunning, with no muddy shadows and very high visible detail.

This release implements a remastered Dolby Digital 5.1 track for audio, which ensures a powerful and enveloping experience. While the mix is not always pounding with high impact audio, you'll notice many subtle surround uses, which help the creepy factor quite a bit. This remixed track really shines, and watching the movie is a more enjoyable experience thanks to the efforts.

Man, Anchor Bay has issued a fantastic selection of bonus features for this title! As I mentioned above, this is the complete and uncut version of Phenomena, which is highly welcome for all of Argento fans. Some movies released as "complete and uncut" feature only a few minutes of excised footage, but this edition of Phenomena retains twenty-eight minutes of previously cut footage! The disc also includes an interview with director Dario Argento with Joe Franklin and a behind the scenes segment. Two music videos, by Bill Wyman and Claudio Simonetti are packed on the disc, and are very interesting to say the least. The best feature of all is a very informative commentary track featuring Dario Argento, make up effects artist Sergio Stivaletti, composer Claudio Simonetti, and journalist Loris Curci. This track is filled with inside info on the flick, and if you love this movie, you will kick yourself if you miss this track. The original theatrical trailer closes out the special features.