Rating: R
Genre:
Horror
Release Date: 04/05/2005
SubTitles: English/French/Espanol
Dubbed: English/French/Espanol
Sound: DD5.1/DD1
Run Time: 316 min
Distributor/Studio: MGM
Banking on the release of the 2005 remake comes
The Amityville Horror DVD Collection from
MGM Home Entertainment. The first three movies are included, plus a bonus disc that features an inside look at the new film, along with two
History Channel documentaries on the actual Amityville case. Of the film discs, only the first one comes complete with bells and whistles. With a new high-definition anamorphic 1.85:1 widescreen transfer and 5.1 Dolby Digital Surround Sound, the first movie looks vibrant and sharp, full of atmospheric sound design made to make the hairs on the back of your neck spring to life. Extras include an exclusive audio commentary by
Dr. Hanz Holzer, the author of the original
Murder in Amityville book on which the movie was based. The good doctor does a nice job of laying out his side of the story, while also taking the occasional jab at Hollywood. The disc also contains the well-made "For God's Sake, Get Out!"
documentary, which includes new interviews with both
James Brolin and
Margot Kidder. The two let loose stories of their clashes on the set and obvious moments of over-acting on both of their parts, bringing a candidness to the piece that is quite refreshing compared to many studio-created fluff pieces often found on DVDs. Seven fantastic radio spots are included on the disc as well, plus the original theatrical trailer.
Amityville II and
3-D have been given the 1.85:1 anamorphic treatment, with added full-screen options on the flip side of each dual-sided disc. Sound options include a 5.1 Dolby Digital track for the third entry, while the second one got shafted with a measly mono signal. Trailers have been included for each film, but don't look for much else on either DVD.
MGM definitely put some work into the set, and it shows. This is a perfect box set for anyone who's looking to bone up on his or her Amityville knowledge before the
Ryan Reynolds remake comes out.
~ Jeremy Wheeler, All Movie Guide
;)
