6.5 | / 10 |
Users | 0.0 | |
Reviewer | 4.0 | |
Overall | 4.0 |
In 19th century London, a woman weds a doctor with necrophiliac tendencies whose first wife died under mysterious circumstances—and might be coming back from the grave to torment her successor.
Starring: Barbara Steele, Robert Flemyng, Silvano Tranquilli, Maria Teresa Vianello, Harriet MedinHorror | 100% |
Foreign | 88% |
Video codec: HEVC / H.265
Video resolution: 4K (2160p)
Aspect ratio: 1.85:1
Original aspect ratio: 1.85:1
Italian: DTS-HD Master Audio Mono (48kHz, 24-bit)
English: DTS-HD Master Audio Mono (48kHz, 24-bit)
English, English SDH
Blu-ray Disc
Two-disc set (2 BDs)
4K Ultra HD
Slipcover in original pressing
Region A (B, C untested)
Movie | 3.0 | |
Video | 4.0 | |
Audio | 4.0 | |
Extras | 5.0 | |
Overall | 4.0 |
There’s some level of bravery to “The Horrible Dr. Hitchcock,” with the 1962 production trying to explore the ways of necrophilia without triggering utter disgust from viewers and censors of the day. Director Riccardo Freda doesn’t shy away from the central display of inhuman lust, but he’s not making an offering of underground cinema here, going gothic with the endeavor, which is more of an atmospheric viewing experience than a suspenseful one. “The Horrible Dr. Hitchcock” moves slowly, absurdly so at times, but there’s style to keep the audience interested in the weird cravings of a doctor and his specific carnal appetites, preferring his partners to be lifeless. There’s some eeriness to the feature, and perversion, helping to support the movie when it shows a general reluctance to march ahead as a wild display of madness.
"The Horrible Dr. Hitchcock" was previously released on Blu-ray in 2016, and now returns to disc via Vinegar Syndrome. Listed as "newly restored from its 35mm original camera negative," the original Italian cut of the movie is presented in 4K, offering fans a richer look at the feature's use of color, as the production plays with hues to generate a spooky atmosphere. Primaries are secure throughout, explored through set design and costuming choices. Lighting is also distinct as heavy reds and greens are employed. Darkness is frequent, and blacks remain deep, maintaining some sense of frame information. Skin tones are natural. Detail is strong with some focus issues, with a textured feel for skin particulars and period outfits. Interiors maintain depth in living spaces and hospital tours. Grain is capably resolved. Source is in good condition, but some color flashing is detected during a few stretches of the film.
"The Horrible Dr. Hitchcock" is presented with two 1.0 DTS-HD MA tracks, providing Italian and English audio. The latter is a bit deeper, but both offerings are straightforward in design. Dialogue exchanges are clear, securing dubbing and dramatic emphasis. Scoring supports with a warmer orchestral sound, with decent instrumentation. Sound effects are appreciable.
Like most films from this era, "The Horrible Dr. Hitchcock" saves most of its physical activity for the final ten minutes, creating some moments of heroism and threat, while the whole thing works on its genre mood. Initial promise for a more lurid viewing experience is not kept, and pacing issues are present, but Freda finds ways to visually capture mounting pressure on Cynthia and the illness of Hitchcock, creating a sufficiently ominous picture.
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