Thirst (1979) (Blu-ray/DVD Review)
Directed By: Rod Hardy
Starring: Chantal Contouri, Shirley Cameron, Max Phipps
Rated: R/Region A/2:35/1080p/Number of Discs 2
Available from Severin Films
The Ozploitation classic and one of the most unique vampire movies of our time is back like you’ve never seen it before: David Hemmings and Henry Silva star as executives of an international blood-drinking cartel known as The Brotherhood. But when they abduct a descendant of Elizabeth Bathory to reboot her depraved legacy, she must escape before the corporation can expand their human blood cow dairies and create a vampire master race. Max Phipps co-stars in this gripping shocker directed by Rod Hardy, produced by Antony Ginnane, and now transferred in HD from the original negative for the first time ever anywhere!
If you like different, folks, this is a vampire movie that is really different. We have a world here where people are in the place of cows and it all makes for a creepy time, especially when added on with the bizarre nature of our leading lady having scary visions and dreams. There is tons of blood, drama, and strong characters across the board. The film also benefits from having trippy and scary visuals that really stand out in a good way. A lot vampire flicks can fall victim of falling into a group where they all seem different. This one brings a whole new game to the table and is at times actually clever.
Another factor that plays into effect here is when our lead at times has random nightmares and visuals. Whatever you want to call them they blur the lines between what is real and what is fantasy in Thirst. When you have something like that going down in a 1979 horror film you have the needed ingredients for a very moody and filled with atmosphere film. It isn’t perfect, but it is at least very good for what it is. The transfer for this one really stands out for two reasons, one being very good and one a little iffy. The details are there and the film may be the best Severin has produced from a Blu-ray front. Then we have a very odd yellow tint to everything that kind of fits it some spots and looks odd in others. None the less, the details are at least there.
– Audio Commentary With Director Rod Hardy And Producer Anthony I. Ginnane
– Isolated Music Score By Brian May
– Theatrical Trailer
– TV Spots
