听 If the last two-disc DVD release of Halloween (in 2001) proved something, it was that careful restoration and sound enhancement can make an old film terrify like never before. Incredibly, the film returns in yet another two disc release to mark the original's 25th anniversary. Two discs too far? Actually no. In terms of special features, this is the superior set, and if you haven't bought either before, this is the one to own (quickly - before they release another!).
You Said The Last One Looked Great
And it still does! The last disc set had THX mastering for the sound and picture. The difference here is that this process has now been enhanced by Divimax technology. Projector owners will notice the slight increase in picture quality the most.
Carpenter Talks
It's quite a feat that this disc set has John Carpenter doing an audio commentary, as he no longer does interviews on the movie since running out of new things to say. What you get here is the best of his thoughts, along with valuable contributions from producer Debra Hill and star Jamie Lee Curtis.
It's certainly a pleasure to hear Carpenter talk about the critical slamming the film got... until the Village Voice compared the film to Psycho. Suddenly the same critics were re-writing their reviews, especially in the wake of the rapidly increasing cinema attendances. For Carpenter it's undeniably a case of audiences winning over critics, and he talks about it with some relish. Carpenter also discusses in fascinating depth how the movie was made, and cites Hitchcock and Dario Argento's Suspiria as major influences.
Everyone Else Talks
The old two-disc release had an adequate 'making of' documentary. For this new release there's an all-new 87 minute programme, and even hardcore fans will find something new to enjoy. They'll also appreciate the critical tone, with Carpenter and Hill talking frankly about the franchise and what was wrong with their contributions to what's become an increasingly far-fetched enterprise. It's surprising to see how much behind-the-scenes footage has been unearthed, and particularly pleasing how it gives added weight to Donald Pleasence as an acting talent.
SPECIAL FEATURES
This DVD was reviewed on a JVC XV-N5 DVD player.
