Black Christmas - Collectors Edition DVD
Released 3rd December 2002
Critical Mass Releasing

For info on plot, please see BLACK CHRISTMAS PLOT page.

VIDEO
Previously presented in 1.33:1 Full Frame, Black Christmas gets the widescreen treatment. Now matted to 1.66:1, apparently director (Bob Clark) approved, this new ratio eliminates a boom mic that was visible in the earlier 25th Anniversary release. One of the things I love about Black Christmas is the claustrophobic atmosphere it creates by using very close, tight shots. Not allowing the viewer to see what waits in the edge of the frame. ( A total contrast to how John Carpenter and Dean Cundey used the 2.35:1 ratio in Halloween) Although the new version actually gives us less viewing area, it seems to destroy the effect slightly, giving the impression of more space. The picture does seem to have be cleaned up in a few places, with richer colours in certain areas. It is good to be able to see the film in the correct aspect ratio. Im just a little confused as to which version I now like best. Although don't get me wrong its kind of a great dilemma to have.

 

SOUND
Audio is now presented with 5 options, Original Mono, New stereo, French Mono, and two audio commentaries. The first featuring Director Bob Clark, and the second featuring snippets of dialogue from separately recorded sessions with Keir Dullea and John Saxon.

To be honest the sound doesn`t sound too dissimilar to the original version, with the stereo track having certain vocals/sounds improved in clarity. For instance at the end of the film, the cop can now be clearly heard to say something along the lines of "we have to search the attic and basement" which has always been there but never clearly heard. On my system, the piano strings sounded much clearer, and my amp was able to add surround sound in the process (pro logic II)....We can now also hear the ending as I have always told people, with Billy still in the attic, then climbing down the attic ladder- (listen carefully you can hear him descending the rungs)

I would still welcome somebody spending the time to recreate a new 5.1 sound mix, preferably with Bob Clark and Carl Zittrers input, to ensure their vision is unchanged. Oh well maybe on the 30th Anniversary Edition ;-)

Both commentary tracks are interesting and informative, although seem to have been pieced together from interviews, comments etc. Bob Clarks commentary now completely clears up any mystery or questions about the identity of the killer.....

The Saxon/Dullea commentary isn't as good, but is interesting to hear them look back on their work with some degree of pride. Saxon inparticular has become a big fan of this film in recent years.

 

EXTRAS

The best package of Black Christmas extras yet assembled on a shiny disc, this package really makes the DVD.

The new Black Christmas revisited documentary is great fun, if a little poorly made in the sound department. The documentary takes us back to the scene of the crimes. The sorority house, which still stands today. Many renovations have been carried out on this property, most notably the removal of the white deco effect and red/brown timbers, but its still our beloved house. I recently visited the house myself, and although changed, still looks great. The documentary is presented by Art Hindle and Lynne Griffen, and its fun to watch them wander round the house pointing out certain scenes, props etc. Mixed in with the new house footage are interviews with many of the cast n crew, and proves to be very informative about certain elements. The only thing that really lets the feature down is the poor sound quality I mentioned over certain sections (most notably the Bob Clark studio segments) Dont let that detract from the best Black Christmas documentry currently available.

There are many pictures and posters included on the disc also, including alternate title sequences, TV spots, radio spots, trailers etc. One of my favorite trailers is the 25th Anniversary Edition Trailer also included. Its great to see them all in one place, and amusing to watch how films were advertised back in the 70s. A real shame about the botched name changes and advertising campaigns back then, or this film might better known as the true classic now.

Stand alone interviews with John Saxon and Bob Clark can also be activated, and both run for around twenty minutes each (some of the dialogue here has been edited into the commentary tracks, so you may hear some repetition, my choice would be to listen to commentary tracks first) Both are very informative and both show true passion for the film, Bob lets us in on a few secrets, but I wont spoil them here.

The disc also includes a sci-fi/horror show interview with John Saxon, titled Dark Dreamers, fans of Tenebrae and Enter the Dragon will be entertained.

Overall though an excellent package of extras, far more than many people thought could be achieved. One that will only be topped when the "30 th Anniversary Edition" is announced......(please CM)

EASTER EGGS

Inserting the disc into your DVD ROM driver, will reveal three great extras. The original screenplay by Roy Moore, titled "STOP ME" - I believe Bob Clarks notes have been added to the script, showing how he changed certain screens. The screenplay is in ACROBAT PDF format, and alternates between Typed text and handwritten (sometimes faded) notes. Very interesting to read. Includes additional "BILLY" dialogue.

Also included are a few rare posters, and the original SILENT NIGHT EVIL NIGHT pressbooks.

What an excellent addition these Easter Eggs present, and add further value to the disc. Its worth buying this disc for the easter eggs alone- trust me.

PACKING/CASE

The inlays are superb, a newly designed image greets the buyer on the shelves, however turning the inlay over provides the collector with the original 1974 artwork. I've bought two copies and display both version in my collection. Right next to my now discontinued 25th Anniversary Edition.

(--ahem I have to confess Ive actually bought two more copies as gifts, and another to work with on this site......)

Packaged in an "AMARAY style" keep case. Not too good quality. I've actually swapped both my cases for old AMARAY cases, as they have a much better feel than the manufacturer that CM have selected. Not a Major problem though. Actually next time out Id really like to see a custom designed card sleeve to accompany the disc. (similar to the recent Reservoir Dogs 10 Year discs.) At least it wasnt Warner who released this disc in one of their terrible "snapper" cases.......

OVERALL

If you're a fan on the film then buy it.....its the best package for Black Christmas ever released...!
And many thanks to Critical Mass for taking the time to put this fine package together.