Zombie:
4K Restoration Limited Edition
review by Bobby Blakey
This day and age horror films rarely all that shocking and sadly most of the older ones have lost their edge because of it. Some of the most shocking films in the genre came at a time when the industry wasn’t watered down with everything you could want on film. In 1979 the “Maestro of Gore” director Lucio Fulci unleashed his own take on the undead genre with Zombie that was deemed the unofficial sequel to Dawn of the Dead by most. Now Blue Underground is bringing the 40th Anniversary Limited Edition of the film home in a brand new 4K Restoration.
Zombie follows a zombie that is found aboard a boat off the New York coast which belongs to do a famous scientist. Peter West, a journalist, travels to the Antilles with Ann, the daughter of the scientist. On the way, they meet with with Brian, a ethnologist, and Susan. When they arrive at Matul Island, they find Dr. Menard, and discover a terrifying disease which is turning the islanders into horrifying zombies which devour human flesh and seem indestructible. I had always wanted to check this out and remember seeing it on VHS when I was a kid, but for whatever reason I never did. I am glad I got to see it now as opposed to then though as I think I appreciate it a lot more. Sure the acting is average at best and its all usual 70s cheese, but the creative uses of the undead and great practical effects take it to the next level.
There is a bit of down time where you don’t get a lot of gore and undead fun, but have no fear there is still plenty of it here. From underwater zombies attacking sharks from the undead rising from the ground complete with worms crawling out of their eyes, this zombie flick pushes the boundaries to perfection. There is a ton of flesh ripping, blood flowing and flesh eating to make any hardcore fan smile from ear to ear. I was really impressed with the quality of the effects in general, not just for the time but the overall execution. I have seen many films that still don’t live up to the excellence that they delivered here.
While far from a perfect film this is one of those must see and own for any hardcore horror fan. This new 3 disc collector’s edition not only includes the 4K Restoration from the original uncut and uncensored camera negative of the film but also tons of bonus content including interviews, commentaries, TV spots, radio spots, poster & still gallery, and more. As if that wasn’t enough coolness in one collection it also includes Soundtrack CD, collectible booklet, reversible sleeve, and special 3D lenticular slipcover (First Pressing Only).
For more information or to order your copy head over here now!
