Rating summary
| Movie |  | 3.5 |
| Video |  | 4.0 |
| Audio | | 3.5 |
| Extras |  | 2.5 |
| Overall | | 3.5 |
Tower of London Blu-ray Movie Review
Reviewed by Brian Orndorf December 19, 2019
As the lead offering on “The Universal Horror Collection: Volume 3,” 1939’s “Tower of London” has the distinction of not being a horror film. Murders
are common in this retelling of Richard, Duke of Gloucester’s (Basil Rathbone) merciless rise to power, working with Mord (the great Boris Karloff), his
enforcer, to clear the way to royal glory. It’s a nightmarish scenario, but director Rowland V. Lee doesn’t push the material into a fright zone, more
interested in Shakespearian lunges for power and control as Richard works his way through rivals to achieve his lust for the crown.
Perhaps for some, the particulars of English history are quite scary, as “Tower of London” tries to remain invested in power plays and dangerous
encounters, attempting to pass itself as a history lesson before the meatiness of Richard III’s reign. “Tower of London” doesn’t have a tremendous
amount of genre appeal, but there’s dramatic urgency courtesy of the gifted cast, who provide pure passion for the material, creating compelling
characters who are at their best when hip-deep in wicked ways. Also helping the cause is the feature’s sense of scale, endeavoring to come across a
grander picture as it invests in big sets and ornate costumes, achieving a period feel with moments of swordplay and battles.
Tower of London Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality
Billed as a "New 2K scan of a fine grain print," "Tower of London" receives a little extra attention for its Blu-ray debut. The AVC encoded image (1.37:1
aspect ratio) presentation is on the soft side, but remains an inviting viewing experience, doing well with general detail, including period
costuming and wigs. Facial particulars sustain textures, along with set visits, offering a chance to appreciate the endeavor's many technical
achievements. Delineation is satisfactory, offering communicative blacks. Grain is respectfully managed. Source is in decent condition, with mild
scratches
and a few jumpy frames detected throughout.
Tower of London Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality
The 2.0 DTS-HD MA sound mix leads with dialogue exchanges, which preserve dramatic intent and combative interplay. Voices are as distinct as
possible for the aged source, which battles hiss during the listening event. Scoring is louder, working to support the period majesty of the production,
and while not precise, instrumentation secures orchestral flow. Sound effects are acceptable, dealing with clanging swords and battle sequences.
Tower of London Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras
- Commentary features film historian Steve Haberman.
- Image Gallery (3:06) collects publicity shots, film stills, poster art, and lobby cards.
- A Theatrical Trailer has not been included.
Tower of London Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation
"Tower of London" is an accomplished film, and it's always a treat to see Karloff make something out of potentially one-note part, while Rathbone sinks
his teeth into the possibilities of Richard's manipulations and frustrations. The quality of the feature isn't in question, just its inclusion in a set devoted
to the spooky wonders of Universal horror.
