Horror Island Blu-ray Movie

Rating summary

Movie		3.5
Video		3.5
Audio		3.5
Extras		3.0
Overall		3.5

Horror Island Blu-ray Movie Review

Reviewed by Brian Orndorf December 19, 2019

Bill (Dick Foran) is in possession of Morgan’s Island, but he doesn’t know what to do with it. Out with pal Stuff (Fuzzy Knight), Bill saves sailor Tobias (Leo Carrillo) from trouble, with the trio coming into contact with half of a treasure map. Realizing he could make a few bucks selling Morgan’s Island has a treasure hunter destination, Bill takes his first group to the dilapidated estate on the property, only to encounter a phantom individual who wants to disrupt any search for buried loot.

1941’s “Horror Island” is a bit light in the scare department, but there’s plenty of movie to go around here. Director George Waggner is basically juggling three different plots, as the picture opens as an adventure, sustains as a mystery, and concludes with mild haunted house elements, putting Dick and his guests through a haunted house-style experience on the island. It’s not a confused effort, just underbaked, with disparate elements competing for screentime, and the feature’s opening act, where Dick comes into contact with the torn treasure map, promises a journey that never arrives. “Horror Island” remains enjoyable due to cast enthusiasm, as the players all know their place in the increasingly overpopulated endeavor, keeping banter snappy and reactions to strange situations engaging. Perhaps they also comprehend the reality of the cluttered screenplay, trying to make the best impression possible in a short amount of time.

Horror Island Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality 

The AVC encoded image (1.35:1 aspect ratio) presentation delivers an acceptable look at the particulars of "Horror Island," which hasn't been offered a fresh scan for its Blu-ray debut. However, age isn't too intrusive, with modest detail coming through on facial surfaces and costuming, which surveys suits, dresses, and pirate wear. Sets are open for survey, with the island dwelling preserving aging particulars. Delineation is accessible, sustaining shadowy events and dark areas of the estate. Source is in decent shape, with mild scratches and speckling, and a few warped frames.

Horror Island Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality 

The 2.0 DTS-HD MA sound mix has its issues with hiss and pops during the listening experience, but overall clarity is satisfactory. Performances are open for inspection, showcasing stabs at comedy and drama, and more heated encounters remain stable. Scoring supports as expected, presenting adequate instrumentation, which swells comfortably during suspense sequences. Sound effects are blunt but acceptable.

Horror Island Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras 

• Commentary features film historian Ted Newsom.

• Image Gallery (1:53) collects publicity shots, film stills, poster art, and lobby cards.

• And a Theatrical Trailer (1:30, SD) is included.

Horror Island Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation 

Again, "Horror Island" doesn't build to anything frightening. It's far more sedate as a whodunit, winding around an empty castle showing off set design achievements and few moments of death. The title promises something the feature doesn't deliver, but with lowered expectations, there's entertainment value with a committed cast.