Deep Red

Well it had to happen, after long anticipation, the day came that fans of Dario Argento had been dreaming (and drooling) about for quite some time - the DVD release of Deep Red. And has it been worth the wait, oh yes. What we have been delivered is one of the most beautiful presentations for Horror fans yet.

Deep Red follows the misadventures of an english pianist (played by 70's british stalwart David Hemmings) who witnesses a brutal murder take place and with the assistance of a stunning journalist (a great performance by Dario's ex Daria Nicolodi) set about tracking down the truth about not only this killing but the many that soon follow.

Visually stunning with an excellent strong script, great performances from all the cast and a fantastic soundtrack by Goblin, Deep Red does not fail in any way whatsoever in achieving it's aim in both gripping and terrifying the viewer throughout the movie.

Possibly the best giallo movie ever made Deep Red is presented here in its fullest print yet. Over the years there have been several versions available, with different cuts depending on the regional release markets. This print has been put together with the cooperation of Dario himself via his good freind Bill Lustig. Although a couple of the restored scenes are only available in Italian with english subtitles this in no way detracts from the viewing pleasure. More so when you take into account the many options for viewing the movie, you can enjoy it in either the English language version or in Italian with English subtitles - both in Dolby surround!!

As it is, I can't emphasise enough just how delightful it is too watch Deep Red in all its remastered glory. Having seen this gem many, many times before over the years I really felt like I was watching it anew when I popped the disc into my player. The twists and turns of the plot and shock revelations at the end that will have you back at the start of the movie to watch it all over again, a true horror masterpiece.

As well as the film itself there are some truly commendable extras on offer too. As well as the usual trailers, bios etc (the Italian Profondo Rosso trailer is simply fantastic) the inclusion of the specially produced 25th Anniversary Featurette tips this one over the edge in the fantastic stakes. Fascinating and informative, the documentary delves into the making of the film with many interesting (and amusing) anecdotes and the gathering of the members of Goblin for this made me more than pleased. Sadly though, the featurette is criminally short as I'm sure many of Argento's fans would have loved something a bit longer.

So, all in all, Deep Red is definetely an essential purchase. Wether you've never seen any of Argento's work or you're a long time fan thats seen Deep Red dozens of times, buy this with confidence - A Classic!